Which office is primarily responsible for ensuring adherence to security policies and procedures across various entities in the DoD?

The Defense Security Service (DSS) plays a crucial role in overseeing and ensuring compliance with security policies and procedures within the Department of Defense (DoD). It is responsible for the protection of national security information and the security clearances of individuals who require access to classified information. The DSS provides guidance, oversight, and support to various entities within the DoD to implement security best practices.

This office conducts security education programs, assesses facilities for compliance with security standards, and assists in the development of policies that address security issues relevant to the protection of classified information. By fulfilling these responsibilities, the DSS ensures that all components within the DoD are adhering to the security policies that safeguard sensitive information and maintain national security effectively.

Other options mentioned, such as the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, primarily focus on broader policymaking and strategic oversight without the day-to-day enforcement of specific security protocols. The Defense Intelligence Agency is more focused on intelligence activities, while the Office of Management and Budget deals with budgetary matters rather than security compliance. Therefore, the DSS is uniquely positioned to ensure adherence to security policies across the various entities within the DoD.