Overview
The client engaged SoftLabs to deliver High Assurance Evaluation services to uplift and support their internal product assurance capabilities under the direction of the Assurance branch. The engagement focused on strengthening cyber defensive posture through rigorous evaluation of products across their lifecycle. Key areas of focus included supply chain security, software and firmware integrity, and network and communications security, ensuring alignment with high‑assurance standards and national security requirements.
Key Achievements
- Delivered specialist support through a SoftLabs professional cybersecurity consultant, performing work at a classified level
- Conducted rigorous evaluation and testing of product lifecycles to identify potential vulnerabilities
- Reviewed and assessed technical artefacts, and drafted and executed detailed product test plans
- Supported program and project planning, including work breakdown and testing strategies
- Assisted in the support and maintenance of High Assurance testing laboratories, environments, and associated equipment
- Performed assessment and assurance activities for approved High Assurance Cryptographic Equipment, Cross Domain Solutions, and other security‑enforcing technologies
- Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to support assurance objectives
- Analysed prior testing lab projects that had not been successful, identifying root causes and improvement opportunities
- Prepared relevant guidelines, legislation mappings, frameworks, and standards required for establishing and operating a compliant testing lab
Outcome
The SoftLabs consultant successfully documented and summarised identified issues, outstanding risks, and potential remediation strategies. As a result, stakeholders requested progression to detailed work breakdown structures and agreed quarterly Activity and Progress Reporting (APR) to track delivery and outcomes. This engagement provided a structured, high‑assurance foundation to enhance the client’s cyber evaluation capability and strengthen ongoing defensive operations.
