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Computer Security Resource Center

Computer Security Resource Center

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commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS)

Abbreviation(s) and Synonym(s):

COTS

Definition(s):

  Software and hardware that already exists and is available from commercial sources. It is also referred to as off-the-shelf.
Source(s):
NISTIR 7622 under Commercial off-the-shelf from NIST SP 800-64 Rev. 2
NIST SP 800-161 [Superseded] under Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) from NIST SP 800-64 Rev. 2

  Hardware and software IT products that are ready-made and available for purchase by the general public.
Source(s):
NISTIR 7711 under Commercial-Off-The-Shelf

  A software and/or hardware product that is commercially ready-made and available for sale, lease, or license to the general public.
Source(s):
CNSSI 4009-2015 [Superseded] from NSA/CSS Policy 3-14