In a perfect world, every organization would have unlimited budgets, perfect compliance, and flawless security systems. But back in reality, that’s rarely the case. Businesses often face situations where they can’t implement a required security control exactly as written—maybe because of cost, technical limitations, or business needs. That’s where compensating controls step in.
Think of compensating controls as creative workarounds: they’re alternative measures that still reduce risk to an acceptable level, even if they’re not the exact control originally recommended.
What Are Compensating Controls?
A compensating control is basically a security measure you put in place when the “standard” control isn’t feasible. The idea is to still meet the security objective, just in a different way.
For example:
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If full-disk encryption can’t be implemented on a legacy system, using strict physical security and network isolation might serve as compensating controls.
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If multi-factor authentication (MFA) isn’t available on an older app, requiring VPN access plus strict monitoring can help cover the gap.
The key is that compensating controls must be just as effective as the original requirement—or at least reduce risk to a level the organization accepts.
Why Organizations Use Them
Companies don’t choose compensating controls because they want to cut corners. They use them because:
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Legacy systems can’t support modern controls.
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Budget constraints limit the ability to implement certain solutions.
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Operational needs mean a direct control isn’t practical (at least not yet).
In these cases, compensating controls give businesses flexibility while still maintaining a responsible security posture.
Best Practices for Implementing Compensating Controls
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Understand the Original Requirement
You can’t replace a control effectively if you don’t fully understand what it’s supposed to achieve. Break down the original requirement’s goal before designing an alternative. -
Evaluate the Risk Thoroughly
Compensating controls should address the same risk. Conduct a risk assessment to confirm your workaround actually reduces the threat. -
Document Everything
Auditors and regulators want to see evidence. Document why the standard control wasn’t possible, what compensating control was implemented, and how it meets the same objectives. -
Test and Monitor
Just like primary controls, compensating controls need to be tested and monitored. If they stop working or no longer meet the requirement, they lose their value. -
Review Regularly
Compensating controls shouldn’t last forever. They’re often a bridge until the organization can implement the intended solution. Make regular reviews part of the plan.
Why This Matters for CompTIA Certifications
Compensating controls show up in multiple CompTIA exams because they’re such a practical concept in security operations.
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Security+ covers the basics of controls—technical, administrative, and physical—where compensating controls are part of the bigger picture.
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CySA+ digs into risk management and mitigation, where you may need to recommend compensating controls based on real-world scenarios.
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CASP+ goes even further, focusing on enterprise-level strategies where compensating controls are often the only feasible option.
If you’re studying, don’t just memorize the definition. Think about examples you’ve seen in real life, like restricting access or implementing monitoring as alternatives. That context will help on exams and in the field.
Final Thoughts
Compensating controls aren’t about lowering the bar—they’re about being flexible and realistic while still protecting systems and data. They recognize that sometimes, you can’t check the exact compliance box, but you can still achieve the same security outcome another way.
For analysts and security professionals, understanding compensating controls means you can approach risk management with creativity and practicality. And if you’re on the CompTIA certification path, knowing how to explain and apply them will give you both exam confidence and real-world credibility.
