A device approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a controlled cryptographic item, that embodies a cryptographic logic or other cryptographic design, and performs the entire COMSEC function, but is dependent upon the host equipment to operate. Source: NSA/CSS Manual Number 3-16 (COMSEC)
What does CCI mean?
The term Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI) Assembly refers to an NSA-approved controlled cryptographic item that embodies cryptographic logic or COMSEC design and performs a COMSEC function while depending on host equipment to operate. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How is controlled cryptographic item (CCI) assembly used in cryptography or COMSEC?
In practice, Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI) Assembly is applied to the technical or security purpose captured by its definition: an NSA-approved controlled cryptographic item that embodies cryptographic logic or COMSEC design and performs a COMSEC function while depending on host equipment to operate. Organizations combine that function with documented procedures, authorized access, testing, monitoring, and controls appropriate to the system.
Why does controlled cryptographic item (CCI) assembly need security controls?
Understanding Controlled Cryptographic Item (CCI) Assembly matters because the concept can affect security, reliability, auditability, or trusted operation. In this glossary context, it refers to an NSA-approved controlled cryptographic item that embodies cryptographic logic or COMSEC design and performs a COMSEC function while depending on host equipment to operate.
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A device approved by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a controlled cryptographic item, that embodies a cryptographic logic or other cryptographic design, and performs the entire COMSEC function, but is dependent upon the host equipment to operate. Source: NSA/CSS Manual Number 3-16 (COMSEC)
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Controlled Cryptographic Item (cci) Assembly. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/controlled-cryptographic-item-cci-assembly
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