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Execution controlIntermediate

Application Allowlisting

Application allowlisting permits only approved executables, scripts, libraries, installers, or other code to run under defined rules.

Framework mapping

MITRE ATT&CK® Enterprise mapping

Catalog v19.2
techniqueT1059 — Command and Scripting Interpreter

Tactics: Execution

Platforms: Windows, Linux, macOS, Network Devices, ESXi, IaaS, Containers

Relationship: mitigation context

Open the official ATT&CK object ↗

Editorial mapping of an inherited BMC article to related Enterprise ATT&CK behavior, control, evidence, architecture, or risk context. Mapping roles state the relationship and do not assert equivalence unless labeled direct.

What it means

Application allowlisting permits only approved executables, scripts, libraries, installers, or other code to run under defined rules.

Why it matters

It can reduce malware and unauthorized software risk, but weak policy design or unmanaged exceptions can create bypasses and operational disruption.

Practical focus

  • Build rules from trusted publishers, paths, hashes, or managed catalogs
  • Include scripts and interpreters in scope
  • Test in audit mode before enforcement
  • Govern exceptions and rule changes

Common mistakes

  • Allowing broad writable paths
  • Ignoring signed malicious or vulnerable software
  • Creating permanent emergency exceptions
  • Deploying enforcement without business testing

Certification relevance

This subject appears in or supports the following certification bodies of knowledge:

GIAC GCCCGIAC GSECCompTIA Security+ISC2 CISSPISC2 CGRC

Authoritative sources