Which types of external communications are exempt according to CIP-002 5.1?

The correct answer highlights an essential aspect of CIP-002 5.1, which differentiates between types of communications and their relevance to critical infrastructure protection. According to the standards, certain cyber assets that are integral to communication networks are exempt because they are not considered as being externally communicative in a manner that poses a risk to the security of the critical infrastructure. This exemption acknowledges that the operation and integrity of communication networks must be maintained while still adhering to regulatory requirements.

The standards are designed to focus on those communications that may expose critical assets or data to security risks. Hence, cyber assets specifically tied to communication networks fall outside the purview of what is subject to strict controls under this particular CIP standard. Understanding this exemptions helps organizations prioritize and streamline their cybersecurity measures while still remaining compliant with NERC requirements.