A Security Technical Implementation Guide or STIG is a configuration standard consisting of cybersecurity requirements for a specific product. The use of STIGs enables a methodology for securing protocols within networks, servers, computers, and logical designs to enhance overall security. These guides, when implemented, enhance security for software, hardware, physical, and logical architectures to further reduce vulnerabilities.
Examples where STIGs would be beneficial include the configuration of a desktop computer or an enterprise server. Most operating systems are not inherently secure, which leaves them open to criminals such as identity thieves and hackers. A STIG describes how to minimize network-based attacks and prevent system access when the attacker is interfacing with the system, either physically at the machine or over a network. STIGs also describe maintenance processes such as software updates and vulnerability patching.
Advanced STIGs might cover the design of a corporate network, including configurations of routers, databases, firewalls, domain name servers, and switches.
What does STIG stand for?
STIG stands for Security Technical Implementation Guide. STIGs encompass a standardized and customizable set of rules for installing, supporting, running, and securing systems in the government against cyberattacks.
STIGs are critical to protecting our most sensitive data. Throughout the DoD and other agencies—such as TSA and the DOJ—STIG compliance is a mandated part of securing and maintaining systems and devices.
What is STIG Compliance?
STIG compliance involves adhering to rules around system implementation and maintenance, as well as human behaviors that frequently result in breaches. These rules, or controls, make up the Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs).
What gets STIGged in a system?
Commercial applications are not created to align with internal DoD mandates. Operating systems, routers, printers, apps—the elements that make up modern systems—all need to go through the STIG process before they are secure enough to be used in government systems.
DISA lists over 10,000 controls that need to be STIGged to meet mandates. Updates need to be done regularly to ensure continued compliance.
Where do STIGs fit in the government cybersecurity process?
DISA STIGs were developed with defense networks and components in mind. The DoD uses STIGs as their exclusive benchmarks. Before an application, update, or network component can go live, it needs Authority to Operate (ATO). This means STIGs must be implemented, vulnerabilities remediated, and government satisfaction achieved for signoff.
Does My Company Require STIGs?
Determining whether your company requires STIGs depends on several factors. If your company operates within the government or is part of a government supply chain, STIG compliance is likely mandatory. However, even companies outside the government sector can benefit from STIGs by enhancing their security posture.
For organizations handling sensitive data or operating in industries where cybersecurity is a critical concern, adopting STIGs can provide a robust framework for minimizing vulnerabilities. Even if STIGs might seem extensive for non-government entities, their principles can guide the implementation of strong security practices across various environments.
STIGs help identify common vulnerabilities and provide steps to harden systems and applications, reducing the attack surface and protecting against potential threats. Therefore, while STIGs are essential for government-related entities, they can also be a valuable tool for private companies aiming to elevate their cybersecurity standards.
How Can Netizen Help?
Netizen ensures that security gets built-in and not bolted-on. Providing advanced solutions to protect critical IT infrastructure such as the popular “CISO-as-a-Service” wherein companies can leverage the expertise of executive-level cybersecurity professionals without having to bear the cost of employing them full time.
We also offer compliance support, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and more security-related services for businesses of any size and type.
Additionally, Netizen offers an automated and affordable assessment tool that continuously scans systems, websites, applications, and networks to uncover issues. Vulnerability data is then securely analyzed and presented through an easy-to-interpret dashboard to yield actionable risk and compliance information for audiences ranging from IT professionals to executive managers.
Netizen is an ISO 27001:2013 (Information Security Management), ISO 9001:2015, and CMMI V 2.0 Level 3 certified company. We are a proud Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor for hiring and retention of military veterans.
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