3 Handling Exceptions and Waivers

STIG Compliance and Security Hardening · 4:18

Listen on 93

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Not every STIG finding fits your system right
Mission needs and configs bring a different sight
When compliance meets reality on the ground
Sometimes exceptions are what must be found
Technical limits or operational flow
Risk acceptance helps your mission go

[Chorus]
Document, justify, mitigate, timeline
Operational, technical, risk by design
POA and M with controls in line
Waiver process through the chain of command
Document, justify, understand
Not every finding has to take a stand

[Verse 2]
Operational requirements drive the mission first
When STIG findings make your system worse
Document clearly why you cannot comply
Show the conflict, let the reasons fly
Authorizing Official makes the call
Risk acceptance standing ten feet tall

[Chorus]
Document, justify, mitigate, timeline
Operational, technical, risk by design
POA and M with controls in line
Waiver process through the chain of command
Document, justify, understand
Not every finding has to take a stand

[Bridge]
Four components in your POA and M plan
Justification helps them understand
Risk assessment shows what could go wrong
Mitigating controls keep you strong
Timeline shows when you'll make it right
Formal waivers bring it to light

[Verse 3]
Technical limitations block the way
Some configurations just won't play
Chain of command knows the proper route
Formal waiver requests help you execute
Balance security with what you need
Documented exceptions help you succeed

[Chorus]
Document, justify, mitigate, timeline
Operational, technical, risk by design
POA and M with controls in line
Waiver process through the chain of command
Document, justify, understand
Not every finding has to take a stand

[Outro]
Exceptions and waivers pave the way
When STIGs and missions clash today

4 Lab 4 — STIG Remediation →