Medium RiskFARCybersecurity

52.204-21 — Basic Safeguarding of Covered Contractor Information Systems

Researched by the BidStride Research Team

What This Clause Requires

Requires basic safeguarding of contractor information systems that process, store, or transmit Federal contract information (FCI). Implements 15 security requirements based on NIST SP 800-171.

Official Regulation Text

See 48 CFR 52.204-21 for the full regulatory text.

Source: eCFR, 48 CFR 52.204-21

Compliance Checklist

  • Implement 15 basic safeguarding requirements for systems processing FCI
  • Limit access to authorized users
  • Identify information systems processing FCI and apply controls

Flow-Down to Subcontractors

Flow-down required

This clause must be included in subcontracts with all subcontractors at all tiers where the subcontractor will perform work covered by this clause. Typically appears in contract Sections H, I.

BidStride automatically scans your RFPs for 52.204-21

Stop hunting through solicitations manually. BidStride identifies every FAR and DFARS clause in your RFP, flags risk level, and surfaces compliance requirements before you submit your bid.

This summary is for informational purposes only and reflects the BidStride Research Team's plain-English interpretation of the regulation. It is not legal advice and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Always consult the official Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) or Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) text and qualified legal counsel for compliance decisions.