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VA Technical Reference Model v 24.7

Neo4j Graph Database

General Information

Technologies must be operated and maintained in accordance with Federal and Department security and privacy policies and guidelines. More information on the proper use of the TRM can be found on the TRM Proper Use Tab/Section.

Website:	Go to site
Description:	Neo4j is a graph database management system. This technology is designed to optimize management, storage, and the traversal of nodes and their relationships. Neo4j classifies data as either an edge, node, or attribute, where each node and edge can have any number of attributes. Both the nodes and edges may be labeled to narrow data searches. Neo4j supports real-time recommendations, network diagrams, graph-based searches of digital assets, fraud detection, and access management. This technology is available in two solutions, hosted cloud and on-premise. This entry covers on-premise only. This technology is available in three editions, Community, Professional and Enterprise. Neo4j Community is a free, open source, edition, while Professional and Enterprise offers additional availability features and technical support. This entry covers all 3 editions. The TRM decisions in this entry only apply to technologies and versions owned, operated, managed, patched, and version-controlled by VA. This includes technologies deployed as software installations on VMs within VA-controlled cloud environments (e.g. VA Enterprise Cloud (VAEC)). Cloud services provided by the VAEC, which are listed in the VAEC Service Catalog, and those controlled and managed by an external Cloud Service Provider (i.e. SaaS) are not in the purview of the TRM. For more information on the use of cloud services and cloud-based products within VA, including VA private clouds, please see the Enterprise Cloud Solutions Office (ECSO) Portal at: https://dvagov.sharepoint.com/sites/OITECSO
Technology/Standard Usage Requirements:	Users must ensure their use of this technology/standard is consistent with VA policies and standards, including, but not limited to, VA Handbooks 6102 and 6500; VA Directives 6004, 6513, and 6517; and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards, including Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS). Users must ensure sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. Prior to use of this technology, users should check with their supervisor, Information Security Officer (ISO), Facility Chief Information Officer (CIO), or local Office of Information and Technology (OI&T) representative to ensure that all actions are consistent with current VA policies and procedures prior to implementation.
Section 508 Information:	This technology has been assessed by the Section 508 Office and found non-conformant. The Implementer of this technology has the responsibility to ensure the version deployed is 508-compliant. Section 508 compliance may be reviewed by the Section 508 Office and appropriate remedial action required if necessary. For additional information or assistance regarding Section 508, please contact the Section 508 Office at Section508@va.gov. Please see reference tab for more information concerning product versions.
Decision:	View Decisions

Decision Source:	TRM Mgmt Group
Decision Process:	One-VA TRM v24.2
Decision Date:	02/15/2024 at 20:11:03 UTC
Aliases:	Neo4j DBMS, Neo4j Desktop
Introduced By:	TRM Request
Vendor Name:	Neo Technology

Vendor Release Information

The Vendor Release table provides the known releases for the TRM Technology, obtained from the vendor (or from the release source).

Version	Release Date	Vendor End of Life Date	Vendor Desupport Date
2.0.x	12/11/2013
2.1.x	06/11/2014
2.2.x	03/25/2015
2.3.x	10/21/2015
3.0.x	04/26/2016
3.1.x	12/13/2016
3.2.x	05/11/2017
3.3.x	10/24/2017
3.4.x	05/17/2018
3.5.x	11/29/2018
4.0.x	01/15/2020
4.1.x	06/23/2020
4.2.x	11/17/2020
4.3.x	06/17/2021
4.4.x	12/02/2021
5.x	10/06/2022

Current Decision Matrix (02/09/2024)

Users must ensure their use of this technology/standard is consistent with VA policies and standards, including, but not limited to, VA Handbooks 6102 and 6500; VA Directives 6004, 6513, and 6517; and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards, including Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS). Users must ensure sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. Prior to use of this technology, users should check with their supervisor, Information Security Officer (ISO), Facility Chief Information Officer (CIO), or local Office of Information and Technology (OI&T) representative to ensure that all actions are consistent with current VA policies and procedures prior to implementation.

The VA Decision Matrix displays the current and future VA IT position regarding different releases of a TRM entry. These decisions are based upon the best information available as of the most current date. The consumer of this information has the responsibility to consult the organizations responsible for the desktop, testing, and/or production environments to ensure that the target version of the technology will be supported. Any major.minor version that is not listed in the VA Decision Matrix is considered unapproved for use.

Legend:

White	Approved: The technology/standard has been approved for use.
Yellow	Approved w/Constraints: The technology/standard can be used within the specified constraints located below the decision matrix in the footnote[1] and on the General tab.
Gray	Unapproved: This technology or standard can be used only if a POA&M review is conducted and signed by the Authorizing Official Designated Representative (AODR) as designated by the Authorizing Official (AO) or designee and based upon a recommendation from the POA&M Compliance Enforcement, has been granted to the project team or organization that wishes to use the technology.
Orange	Divest: VA has decided to divest itself on the use of the technology/standard. As a result, all projects currently utilizing the technology/standard must plan to eliminate their use of the technology/standard. Additional information on when the entry is projected to become unapproved may be found on the Decision tab for the specific entry.
Black	Prohibited: The technology/standard is not (currently) permitted to be used under any circumstances.
Blue	Planning/Evaluation Constraint:The period of time this technology is currently being evaluated, reviewed, and tested in controlled environments. Use of this technology is strictly controlled and not available for use within the general population. If a customer would like to use this technology, please work with your local or Regional OI&T office and contact the appropriate evaluation office displayed in the notes below the decision matrix. The Local or Regional OI&T office should submit an inquiry to the TRM if they require further assistance or if the evaluating office is not listed in the notes below.

Release/Version Information:

VA decisions for specific versions may include a ‘.x’ wildcard, which denotes a decision that pertains to a range of multiple versions.

For example, a technology approved with a decision for 7.x would cover any version of 7.(Anything) - 7.(Anything). However, a 7.4.x decision would cover any version of 7.4.(Anything), but would not cover any version of 7.5.x or 7.6.x on the TRM.

VA decisions for specific versions may include ‘+’ symbols; which denotes that the decision for the version specified also includes versions greater than what is specified but is not to exceed or affect previous decimal places.

For example, a technology approved with a decision for 12.6.4+ would cover any version that is greater than 12.6.4, but would not exceed the .6 decimal ie: 12.6.401 is ok, 12.6.5 is ok, 12.6.9 is ok, however 12.7.0 or 13.0 is not.

<Past

CY2019

CY2020

CY2021

Future>

Release

2.0.x

Unapproved

2.1.x

Unapproved

2.2.x

Unapproved

2.3.x

Unapproved

3.0.x

Unapproved

3.1.x

Unapproved

3.2.x

Approved w/Constraints
[4, 6, 7, 8, 9]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 11]

Divest
[3, 6, 7, 10, 11]

Divest
[3, 6, 7, 10, 12]

Unapproved

3.3.x

Approved w/Constraints
[4, 6, 7, 8, 9]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 11]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 12]

Unapproved

3.4.x

Unapproved

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 11]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 12]

Unapproved

3.5.x

Unapproved

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 11]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 6, 7, 10, 12]

Unapproved

4.0.x

Unapproved

4.1.x

Unapproved

Divest
[3, 6, 7, 12, 13]

Unapproved

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 4, 13, 14, 15, 16]

Approved w/Constraints
[3, 4, 13, 14, 15, 17]

4.2.x

Unapproved

4.3.x

Unapproved

4.4.x

Unapproved

5.x

Unapproved

Decision Constraints


[1]	If free trialware is utilized, the software must be purchased or removed at the end of the trial period. Use of Neo4j is strictly controlled and must only be used with Eagle6 for root cause analysis and machine learning. Security configuration of the Neo4j database will be evaluated and determined as part of the overall system security plan when used with Eagle6. The Neo4j graphical database stores network trace data that could be considered VA sensitive information. Ensure use of a FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic module to secure VA sensitive data in the Neo4j graphical database. As stated in VA Handbook 6500 section SC-28: Protection of information at Rest, protections must be in place for VA information to be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated encryption (or its successor). If FIPS 140-2 at the application level is not possible technically, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FDE) must be implemented at the hard drive where the DBMS resides as stated in the May 5, 2015 memo from the VA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security titled "FIPS 140-2 Validated Full Disk Encryption (F[D]E) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS)`. Unauthorized applications must not be installed or used on the VA network unless a waiver, signed by the Deputy CIO of ASD and based upon a recommendation from the Strategic Technology Alignment Team (STAT), has been granted to the project team or organization that wishes to use the technology. It is noted that data stored in Neo4j is frequently purged since enterprise data can quickly become overwhelming and bog down the response time of trace queries. The frequency of this data purging activity could be a factor in granting a waiver.

[2]	Veterans Affairs (VA) users must ensure VA sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed by the local ISO (Information Security Officer) to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500.

[3]	Due to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) identified security vulnerabilities, extra vigilance should be applied to ensure the versions remain properly patched to mitigate known and future vulnerabilities. The local ISO can provide assistance in reviewing the NIST vulnerabilities.

[4]	Users should check with their supervisor, Information Security Office (ISO) or local OIT representative for permission to download and use this software. Downloaded software must always be scanned for viruses prior to installation to prevent adware or malware. Freeware may only be downloaded directly from the primary site that the creator of the software has advertised for public download and user or development community engagement. Users should note, any attempt by the installation process to install any additional, unrelated software is not approved and the user should take the proper steps to decline those installations.

[5]	Per the May 5th, 2015 memorandum from the VA Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) FIPS 140-2 Validate Full Disk Encryption (FOE) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS) and in accordance with Federal requirements and VA policy, database management must use Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 compliant encryption to protect the confidentiality and integrity of VA information at rest at the application level. If FIPS 140-2 encryption at the application level is not technically possible, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FOE) must be implemented on the hard drive where the DBMS resides. Appropriate access enforcement and physical security control must also be implemented. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500 and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. It is the responsibility of the system owner to work with the local CIO (or designee) and Information Security Officer (ISO) to ensure that a compliant DBMS technology is selected and that if needed, mitigating controls are in place and documented in a System Security Plan (SSP).

[6]	Veterans Affairs (VA) users must ensure VA sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed by the local ISO (Information Security Officer) to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500.

[7]	Per the May 5th, 2015 memorandum from the VA Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) FIPS 140-2 Validate Full Disk Encryption (FOE) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS) and in accordance with Federal requirements and VA policy, database management must use Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 compliant encryption to protect the confidentiality and integrity of VA information at rest at the application level. If FIPS 140-2 encryption at the application level is not technically possible, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FOE) must be implemented on the hard drive where the DBMS resides. Appropriate access enforcement and physical security control must also be implemented. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500 and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. It is the responsibility of the system owner to work with the local CIO (or designee) and Information Security Officer (ISO) to ensure that a compliant DBMS technology is selected and that if needed, mitigating controls are in place and documented in a System Security Plan (SSP).

[8]	If free trialware is utilized, the software must be purchased or removed at the end of the trial period. Use of Neo4j is strictly controlled and must only be used with Eagle6 for root cause analysis and machine learning. Security configuration of the Neo4j database will be evaluated and determined as part of the overall system security plan when used with Eagle6. The Neo4j graphical database stores network trace data that could be considered VA sensitive information. Ensure use of a FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic module to secure VA sensitive data in the Neo4j graphical database. As stated in VA Handbook 6500 section SC-28: Protection of information at Rest, protections must be in place for VA information to be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated encryption (or its successor). If FIPS 140-2 at the application level is not possible technically, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FDE) must be implemented at the hard drive where the DBMS resides as stated in the May 5, 2015 memo from the VA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security titled `FIPS 140-2 Validated Full Disk Encryption (F[D]E) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS)`. Unauthorized applications must not be installed or used on the VA network unless a waiver, signed by the Deputy CIO of ASD and based upon a recommendation from the Strategic Technology Alignment Team (STAT), has been granted to the project team or organization that wishes to use the technology. It is noted that data stored in Neo4j is frequently purged since enterprise data can quickly become overwhelming and bog down the response time of trace queries. The frequency of this data purging activity could be a factor in granting a waiver.

[9]	Technology must remain patched and operated in accordance with Federal and Department security policies and guidelines in order to mitigate known and future security vulnerabilities.

[10]	If free trialware is utilized, the software must be purchased or removed at the end of the trial period. Use of Neo4j is strictly controlled and must only be used with Eagle6 for root cause analysis and machine learning. Security configuration of the Neo4j database will be evaluated and determined as part of the overall system security plan when used with Eagle6. The Neo4j graphical database stores network trace data that could be considered VA sensitive information. Ensure use of a FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic module to secure VA sensitive data in the Neo4j graphical database. As stated in VA Handbook 6500 section SC-28: Protection of information at Rest, protections must be in place for VA information to be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated encryption (or its successor). If FIPS 140-2 at the application level is not possible technically, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FDE) must be implemented at the hard drive where the DBMS resides as stated in the May 5, 2015 memo from the VA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security titled `FIPS 140-2 Validated Full Disk Encryption (F[D]E) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS)`. Unauthorized applications must not be installed or used on the VA network unless a waiver, signed by the Deputy CIO of ASD and based upon a recommendation from the Strategic Technology Alignment Team (STAT), has been granted to the project team or organization that wishes to use the technology. It is noted that data stored in Neo4j is frequently purged since enterprise data can quickly become overwhelming and bog down the response time of trace queries. The frequency of this data purging activity could be a factor in granting a waiver.

[11]	Due to potential information security risks, cloud based technologies may not be used without the approval of the Enterprise Cloud Solution Office (ECSO). This body is in part responsible for ensuring organizational information, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Protected Health Information (PHI), and VA sensitive data are not compromised. (Ref: VA Directive 6004, VA Directive 6517, VA Directive 6513 and VA Directive 6102).

[12]	Due to potential information security risks for cloud-based technologies, users should coordinate closely with their facility ISSO for guidance and assistance on cloud products. If further guidance is needed contact the Enterprise Cloud Solution Office (ECSO), which is the body responsible for new software development in and migration of existing systems to the VA Enterprise Cloud (VAEC) and ensuring organizational information, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Protected Health Information (PHI), and VA sensitive data are not compromised within the VAEC. For information about Software as a Service (SaaS) products or to submit a SaaS product request with the Project Special Forces (SPF) team, please use their online form. (Ref: VA Directive 6004, VA Directive 6517, VA Directive 6513 and VA Directive 6102).

[13]	If free trialware is utilized, the software must be purchased or removed at the end of the trial period. Use of Neo4j is strictly controlled and must only be used with Eagle6 for root cause analysis and machine learning. Security configuration of the Neo4j database will be evaluated and determined as part of the overall system security plan when used with Eagle6. The Neo4j graphical database stores network trace data that could be considered VA sensitive information. Ensure use of a FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic module to secure VA sensitive data in the Neo4j graphical database. As stated in VA Handbook 6500 section SC-28: Protection of information at Rest, protections must be in place for VA information to be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated encryption (or its successor). If FIPS 140-2 at the application level is not possible technically, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FDE) must be implemented at the hard drive where the DBMS resides as stated in the May 5, 2015 memo from the VA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security titled `FIPS 140-2 Validated Full Disk Encryption (F[D]E) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS)`. Unauthorized applications must not be installed or used on the VA network unless a waiver, signed by the Deputy CIO of ASD and based upon a recommendation from the Strategic Technology Alignment Team (STAT), has been granted to the project team or organization that wishes to use the technology. It is noted that data stored in Neo4j is frequently purged since enterprise data can quickly become overwhelming and bog down the response time of trace queries. The frequency of this data purging activity could be a factor in granting a waiver. This technology must use the latest TRM-approved version of Java Runtime Environment (JRE) - Oracle. System operators or administrators initiating Eagle6 MUMPS scanner must have robust credentials to prevent rogue, unauthorized, or casual access. Separation of duties and continuous auditing procedures are necessary to mitigate chances of these types of occurrences. The Neo4J graphical database stores network trace data that could be considered VA sensitive information. Ensure use of a FIPS 140-2 validated cryptographic module to secure VA sensitive data in the Neo4J graphical database. As stated in VA Handbook 6500 section SC-28: Protection of information at Rest, protections must be in place for VA information to be encrypted using FIPS 140-2 validated encryption (or its successor). If FIPS 140-2 at the application level is not possible technically, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FDE) must be implemented at the hard drive where the DBMS resides as stated in the May 5, 2015 memo from the VA Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Security titled `FIPS 140-2 Validated Full Disk Encryption (F[D]E) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS)”. VA utilizes the risk-based decision process defined in the VA POA&M Management Guide and Accreditation Requirement Guide in accordance with VA Handbook 6500 - Risk Management Framework for VA Information Systems - Tier 3: VA Information Security Program. Please reach out to your ISSO, ISO and SS for pre-existing systems to enter a high or higher POA&M for the “TRM Unapproved technology”. Due to potential information security risks, SaaS/PaaS solutions must complete the Veterans-Focused Integration Process Request (VIPR) process where a collaborative effort between Demand Management (DM), Enterprise Program Management Office Information Assurance (EPMO IA), Project Special Forces (PSF), Enterprise Cloud Solution Office (ECSO), Chief Technology Officer (CTO), and stakeholders determines the SaaS/PaaS category during the Discovery Phase. All SaaS and Non-AWS/Azure (VAEC) PaaS assets are routed to EPMO IA for Analysis and Approval to Operate (ATO) with technical oversight, acquisition, production, and sustainment provided by PSF.

[14]	Per the May 5th, 2015 memorandum from the VA Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) FIPS 140-2 Validate Full Disk Encryption (FOE) for Data at Rest in Database Management Systems (DBMS) and in accordance with Federal requirements and VA policy, database management must use Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 compliant encryption to protect the confidentiality and integrity of VA information at rest at the application level. If FIPS 140-2 encryption at the application level is not technically possible, FIPS 140-2 compliant full disk encryption (FOE) must be implemented on the hard drive where the DBMS resides. Appropriate access enforcement and physical security control must also be implemented. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500 and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards. It is the responsibility of the system owner to work with the local CIO (or designee) and Information Security Officer (ISO) to ensure that a compliant DBMS technology is selected and that if needed, mitigating controls are in place and documented in a System Security Plan (SSP).

[15]	Veterans Affairs (VA) users must ensure VA sensitive data is properly protected in compliance with all VA regulations. All instances of deployment using this technology should be reviewed by the local ISO (Information Security Officer) to ensure compliance with VA Handbook 6500.

[16]	Due to potential information security risks for cloud-based technologies, users should coordinate closely with their facility ISSO for guidance and assistance on cloud products. If further guidance is needed contact the Enterprise Cloud Solution Office (ECSO), which is the body responsible for new software development in and migration of existing systems to the VA Enterprise Cloud (VAEC) and ensuring organizational information, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Protected Health Information (PHI), and VA sensitive data are not compromised within the VAEC. For information about Software as a Service (SaaS) products or to submit a SaaS product request with the Project Special Forces (SPF) team, please use their online form. (Ref: VA Directive 6004, VA Directive 6517, VA Directive 6513 and VA Directive 6102).

[17]	Due to potential information security risks for cloud-based technologies, users should coordinate closely with their facility ISSO for guidance and assistance on cloud products. If further guidance is needed contact the Enterprise Cloud Solution Office (ECSO), which is the body responsible for new software development in and migration of existing systems to the VA Enterprise Cloud (VAEC) and ensuring organizational information, Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Protected Health Information (PHI), and VA sensitive data are not compromised within the VAEC. For information about Software as a Service (SaaS) products or to submit a SaaS product request with the Project Special Forces (PSF) team, please use their online form. (Ref: VA Directive 6004, VA Directive 6517, VA Directive 6513 and VA Directive 6102).

Note:

At the time of writing, version 5.16 is the most current version, released 01/22/2024.

The following reference(s) are associated with this entry:
Type	Name	Source	Description
*NOTE: Vendor provided information is subject to the accuracy of the manufacturer.

Note: This list may not be complete. No component, listed or unlisted, may be used outside of the technology in which it is released. The usage decision for a component is found in the Decision and Decision Constraints.
Name	Description
No components have been identified for this entry.


Information Management Technologies Business Intelligence and Data Warehouse Platforms	Data Analytics (Statistical Analysis, Prediction, and Modeling)
Information Management Technologies Data Management	Columnar DBMS

- The information contained on this page is accurate as of the Decision Date (02/15/2024 at 20:11:03 UTC).

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VA Technical Reference Model v 24.7

General Information

Vendor Release Information

Current Decision Matrix (02/09/2024)

Decision Constraints

References

Technology Components

VA Categories View the VA Categorization Framework

Open Source

Operating Systems Supported by the Technology

Technologies/Standards Relationships

Runtime Dependencies:

Comparable Technologies:

Companion Technologies/Supported Standards:

General Analysis

Adoption Benefits

Adoption Risks

Architectural Benefits

Architectural Risks

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