Table of Contents

Download all the required files from the GitHub Repository

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Introduction:

Windows 10 is insecure operating system out of the box and requires many changes to insure FISMA compliance. Organizations like Microsoft , Cyber.mil , the Department of Defense , and the National Security Agency have recommended and required configuration changes to lockdown, harden, and secure the operating system and ensure government compliance. These changes cover a wide range of mitigations including blocking telemetry, macros, removing bloatware, and preventing many physical attacks on a system.

Standalone systems are some of the most difficult and annoying systems to secure. When not automated, they require manual changes of each STIG/SRG . Totalling over 1000 configuration changes on a typical deployment and an average of 5 minutes per change equaling 3.5 days worth of work. This script aims to speed up that process significantly.

Notes:

  • This script is designed for operation in Enterprise environments and assumes you have hardware support for all the requirements.
  • This script is not designed to bring a system to 100% compliance, rather it should be used as a stepping stone to complete most, if not all, the configuration changes that can be scripted.
    • Minus system documentation, this collection should bring you up to about 95% compliance on all the STIGS/SRGs applied.

Requirements:

A list of scripts and tools this collection utilizes:

Additional configurations were considered from:

STIGS/SRGs Applied:

How to run the script

The script may be lauched from the extracted GitHub download like this:

.\secure-standalone.ps1

The script we will be using must be launched from the directory containing all the other files from the GitHub Repository

Why we implement DISA and DoD STIG/SRG Guidance

DISA and DoD Compliance Standards

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) have established comprehensive security standards to safeguard information systems against cyber threats. These standards, often referred to as the Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) configuration standard, provide technical guidance and requirements for achieving robust security measures. By adhering to DISA STIG compliance, organizations ensure that their systems are fortified against potential vulnerabilities that could otherwise leave them susceptible to various cyber risks.

Implementing Specific Product STIGs

The DISA STIG compliance framework encompasses a wide array of specific product configurations, ranging from operating systems to software applications. Each STIG offers tailored security guidelines for a specific product, addressing potential vulnerabilities and providing step-by-step instructions to enhance system defenses. By meticulously implementing these specific product STIGs, organizations can fortify their hardware and software environments, ensuring that potential weaknesses are adequately addressed. This systematic approach helps create a more secure configuration standard in line with DISA’s rigorous technical guidance.

Strengthening Security with Automated Compliance

Automating the process of DISA STIG compliance is a strategic approach to enhance overall security posture. This automation streamlines the application of numerous configuration changes, reducing the potential for human error and ensuring consistent adherence to security guidelines. The automated approach not only accelerates the compliance process but also strengthens security by swiftly addressing potential vulnerabilities that could otherwise be missed in manual configurations. By utilizing automation tools and scripts, such as the provided PowerShell script, organizations can efficiently implement DISA STIG compliance measures and reduce the window of exposure to cyber threats.

Critical Role of Hardware and Software Requirements

Hardware and software requirements play a pivotal role in achieving DISA STIG compliance. These requirements encompass various aspects, such as memory integrity, virtualization-based security, and system protection mechanisms. Adhering to these stipulated hardware and software prerequisites is essential for implementing the recommended security controls. Organizations must ensure that their systems meet or exceed these requirements to effectively apply DISA STIG compliance measures. Meeting these prerequisites is a critical step toward establishing a robust defense against potential cyberattacks.

Safeguarding Against Department of Defense (DoD) Mandates

The Department of Defense (DoD) places paramount importance on information system security to safeguard sensitive data and support mission-critical operations. DISA STIG compliance aligns with DoD mandates, providing a comprehensive framework to enhance security measures across the organization’s technological landscape. By implementing DISA STIG compliance, organizations demonstrate their commitment to meeting DoD’s stringent security standards. This alignment not only strengthens the organization’s cybersecurity posture but also ensures readiness to navigate evolving cyber threats in line with DoD’s strategic directives.