# Cis Ubuntu1804 V220 2 2 3

> Ensure CUPS is not installed

- Skill: `cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-3` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-3`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-3/raw
- Safety review: PASS (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: cyberstrikeus (https://skillmd.com/u/cyberstrikeus)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/cyberstrikeus/cis-ubuntu1804-v220-2-2-3

---


# 2.2.3 Ensure CUPS is not installed (Automated)

## Profile

- Level 1 - Server
- Level 2 - Workstation

## Description

The Common Unix Print System (CUPS) provides the ability to print to both local and network printers. A system running CUPS can also accept print jobs from remote systems and print them to local printers. It also provides a web based remote administration capability.

## Rationale

If the system does not need to print jobs or accept print jobs from other systems, it is recommended that CUPS be removed to reduce the potential attack surface.

## Impact

Removing CUPS will prevent printing from the system, a common task for workstation systems.

## Audit Procedure

### Command Line

Run the following command to verify `cups` is not Installed:

```bash
# dpkg-query -s cups &>/dev/null && echo "cups is installed"
```

Nothing should be returned.

## Expected Result

No output (empty result).

## Remediation

### Command Line

Run one of the following commands to remove `cups`:

```bash
# apt purge cups
```

## References

1. More detailed documentation on CUPS is available at the project homepage at http://www.cups.org.
2. NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5: CM-7

## CIS Controls

- v8: 4.8 - Uninstall or Disable Unnecessary Services on Enterprise Assets and Software
- v7: 9.2 - Ensure Only Approved Ports, Protocols and Services Are Running