Which office within the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency facilitates the Assessment and Authorization process for classified information systems at cleared contractor facilities?

• A. Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), Information Systems Security Professional/Security Control Assessor (ISSP/SCA)
• B. Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), National Industrial Security Program Authorization Office (NAO)
• C. Defense Information System for Security (DISS)
• D. Defense Security Service (DSS)

Answer: (B)

The central office that leads the Assessment and Authorization for contractor facilities handling classified information is the National Industrial Security Program Authorization Office (NAO) within the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency. This office is dedicated to managing the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) A&A process, coordinating security reviews, and issuing the Authority to Operate for cleared facilities and their information systems. It ensures that security plans, controls, and documentation meet NISPOM requirements before a facility is authorized to handle classified data.

Other references describe roles or systems involved in the process but do not perform the ultimate authorization. For example, a security assessment role conducts evaluations, a DoD portal is used to manage clearance-related information, and the older agency name refers to a predecessor organization that has been absorbed into the current structure. The NAO is the specific office responsible for the A&A decision.