---
title: AKS Regulated Cluster for PCI DSS 4.0.1 - Targeted Risk Analysis
description: Targeted risk analysis guidance for AKS clusters under PCI DSS 4.0.1.
ms.date: 06/25/2025
ms.subservice: aks-security
ms.topic: concept-article
author: davidsmatlak
ms.author: davidsmatlak
ms.custom:
  - pci-dss
  - compliance
---

# Targeted risk analysis for an AKS regulated cluster for PCI DSS 4.0.1

PCI DSS 4.0.1 introduces targeted risk analysis for certain requirements. This document outlines how to perform and document risk analysis for AKS workloads.

## AKS feature support

AKS provides several features to help you meet PCI DSS 4.0.1 targeted risk analysis requirements:

- **Azure Policy**: Supports risk-based policy enforcement and can help automate risk analysis for AKS resources.
- **Microsoft Defender for Cloud**: Provides risk assessment, security recommendations, and compliance tracking for AKS clusters.
- **Azure Monitor**: Enables tracking of risk indicators and audit events for ongoing risk analysis.

## Your responsibilities

- Identify which PCI DSS requirements in your AKS environment allow for targeted risk analysis (e.g., key rotation, access reviews).
- Document the risk analysis process, findings, and mitigation steps for each applicable requirement.
- Use Azure Policy and Defender for Cloud to automate risk identification and mitigation where possible.
- Regularly review and update risk analysis documentation as the AKS environment and threat landscape evolve.

## Key steps

- Identify requirements that allow for targeted risk analysis.
- Document the risk analysis process, findings, and mitigation steps.
- Review and update risk analysis regularly.

## Example template

| Requirement | Risk Identified | Mitigation | Review Date |
|-------------|----------------|-----------|-------------|
| Key rotation frequency | Key compromise | Automated rotation | 2025-06-01 |

## Integrated AKS security context

You should implement targeted risk analysis as part of a broader security strategy that includes:

- [Security policies](pci-policy.md) for policy and governance.
- [Identity and access management](pci-identity.md) for identity and access management.
- [Monitoring and logging](pci-monitor.md) for monitoring and alerting.

For the latest AKS security features, see the [Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) documentation](/azure/aks/).

## Next steps

Implement comprehensive security awareness training for all personnel with access to the cardholder data environment.

> [!div class="nextstepaction"]
> [Implement security awareness training](pci-security-awareness-training.md)

## Related resources

For more information, review the official [PCI DSS 4.0.1 documentation](https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/).
