CompTIA Security+ Exam Notes

CompTIA Security+ Exam Notes
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Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Understanding STIGs: DISA Standards for Secure System Configuration

 STIGs (Security Technical Implementation Guides)

STIGs, or Security Technical Implementation Guides, are detailed configuration standards developed by the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) to ensure secure deployment and maintenance of systems within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other federal agencies. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:

What Are STIGs?
STIGs are baseline security configurations for various technologies, including:
  • Operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Applications (web servers, databases, browsers)
  • Network devices (routers, switches, firewalls)
  • Mobile platforms and cloud services
They define how systems should be configured to minimize vulnerabilities and comply with DoD cybersecurity policies.

Purpose of STIGs
  • Standardization: Ensure consistent security across systems.
  • Compliance: Help organizations meet DoD cybersecurity requirements.
  • Hardening: Reduce attack surfaces by disabling unnecessary services and enforcing secure settings.
  • Auditing: Provide a checklist for security assessments and inspections.
Structure of a STIG
Each STIG typically includes:
  • Overview: Description of the technology and its security context.
  • Vulnerability IDs (VulIDs): Unique identifiers for each finding.
  • Severity Levels:
    • CAT I: Critical vulnerabilities that could result in immediate loss of confidentiality, integrity, or availability.
    • CAT II: Significant vulnerabilities that could lead to degradation of security.
    • CAT III: Minor vulnerabilities that do not pose an immediate threat.
  • Fix Text: Instructions on how to remediate the issue.
  • Check Text: Steps to verify whether the system complies.
Tools for Working with STIGs
  • SCAP Compliance Checker (SCC): Automates STIG compliance checks.
  • DISA STIG Viewer: Allows users to view, manage, and track STIG findings.
  • ACAS (Assured Compliance Assessment Solution): Used by DoD for vulnerability scanning and STIG compliance.
Importance in Cybersecurity
  • DoD Mandate: Required for systems connected to DoD networks.
  • Risk Reduction: Helps prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.
  • Audit Readiness: Facilitates security inspections and reporting.
Example Use Case
A system administrator deploying a Windows Server in a DoD environment would:
1. Download the relevant Windows Server STIG.
2. Use the STIG Viewer to assess compliance.
3. Apply recommended settings (e.g., password policies, audit logging).
4. Document and remediate any findings.
5. Submit results for security review.

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