Build Secure Systems from the Start — Not During the Audit.
In high-stakes environments like DoD enclaves, classified labs, and FedRAMP-regulated clouds, security isn’t a phase. It’s the foundation. Building Secure Architecture is the definitive blueprint for engineers, ISSOs, and project leads who are responsible for turning NIST 800-53 security controls into real, working infrastructure — from rack layout to ATO approval.
Written by senior security architect and Linux systems engineer L. Denise Young, this book bridges the gap between policy and practice, translating compliance language into tactical build decisions that hold up under scrutiny.

What You’ll Learn:
How to design and build systems with security baked in — not bolted on
Secure infrastructure practices from power, cabling, and virtualization to backups, DNS, and patching
Control-aligned system builds (Linux, Windows) using STIG, CIS, and secure domain integration
NIST-focused network segmentation, remote access zones, firewalls, and cross-domain protections
Real-world guidance on logging, monitoring, CAC enforcement, and backup validation
How to collect evidence, prepare ATO documentation, and survive the assessor review

Who This Book Is For:
System Engineers responsible for building compliant Linux/Windows environments
Infrastructure & Network Architects deploying enclaves in secure and classified networks
ISSO and Security Personnel guiding RMF compliance and documentation
Project Leads and Technical Managers who must deliver mission-ready systems that pass inspection
DevSecOps and Platform Engineers building automated, testable infrastructure-as-code

Includes:
Reference architectures for classified Linux systems, FedRAMP cloud builds, and SIPR/NIPR data flows
Artifact templates, diagrams, SOP guides, and control mapping tools
A full NIST 800-53 control-to-engineering implementation matrix by role
Lessons learned from real-world build-outs in defense and federal networks
Stop waiting until the end of a project to think about security.
Start building it into every cable, subnet, and system — from day one.
Get the blueprint. Build it right.
Building Secure Architecture is your mission-ready guide to infrastructure that works, complies, and lasts.