HITRUST allows grouping of components to improve efficiency in assessments, but only when there is sufficienthomogeneityamong the components. Grouping is permitted when systems share the sameconfigurations(e.g., identical firewall rule sets, server builds), the samepatch levels(demonstrating equal maintenance and security posture), or whenfacilities use identical access management systems(ensuring consistent physical security practices). The logic behind grouping is that if controls are identical across multiple assets, then one test can represent the whole group without introducing risk. However, grouping must be supported by documentation proving uniformity. If variations exist—for example, one system with different access rules or a facility with a different badge system—those components must be assessed separately. Grouping reduces duplication and workload, but it requires strict evidence of control uniformity to maintain assessment reliability.
[References:HITRUST CSF Assessment Methodology – “Grouping of Like Components”; CCSFP Study Guide – “Homogeneity in Component Grouping.”, ]
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