The web server document directory must be in a separate partition from the web servers system files.

From Web Server Security Requirements Guide

Associated with: CCI-001084

SV-54398r3_rule The web server document directory must be in a separate partition from the web servers system files.

Vulnerability discussion

A web server is used to deliver content on the request of a client. The content delivered to a client must be controlled, allowing only hosted application files to be accessed and delivered. To allow a client access to system files of any type is a major security risk that is entirely avoidable. Obtaining such access is the goal of directory traversal and URL manipulation vulnerabilities. To facilitate such access by misconfiguring the web document (home) directory is a serious error. In addition, having the path on the same drive as the system folder compounds potential attacks such as drive space exhaustion.

Check content

Review the web server documentation and deployed configuration to determine where the document directory is located for each hosted application. If the document directory is not in a separate partition from the web server's system files, this is a finding.

Fix text

Configure the web server to place the document directories in a separate partition from the web server system files.

Pro Tips

Lavender hyperlinks in small type off to the right (of CSS class id, if you view the page source) point to globally unique URIs for each document and item. Copy the link location and paste anywhere you need to talk unambiguously about these things.

You can obtain data about documents and items in other formats. Simply provide an HTTP header Accept: text/turtle or Accept: application/rdf+xml.