The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has recently released an updated version of its Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) for 2024. This new version, known as CSF 2.0, is the first major update since the framework was introduced a decade ago and aims to expand its primary audience from critical infrastructure to all organizations. The main goal of the NIST CSF is to standardize practices and ensure consistent protection of all cyber assets in the United States.
TechRepublic has created a cheat sheet that provides an overview of the NIST CSF and includes steps on how to implement the security framework. This cheat sheet serves as a guide to the government-recommended best practices in cybersecurity.
The NIST CSF is a set of optional standards, best practices, and recommendations designed to enhance cybersecurity and risk management at the organizational level. Its purpose is to establish a common language, set standards, and provide achievable goals for improving cybersecurity and minimizing cybersecurity risks.
While the NIST CSF is a U.S. government publication, it can be applied to businesses internationally. The framework aligns with international standards and is intended to be sector-, country-, and technology-neutral. NIST plans to translate Version 2.0 to make it accessible to a broader global audience.
The NIST CSF is not limited to government use; it can be adapted by businesses of any size. It is relevant to anyone involved in making cybersecurity decisions and managing cybersecurity risks within their organizations, including those responsible for implementing IT policies.
Although following the NIST CSF standards is optional, they serve as an ideal starting point for organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity practices and prevent cyber attacks. The framework is scalable and allows for gradual implementation, ensuring that any business can benefit from its security practices.
The NIST CSF was created to address the fragmented nature of the cybersecurity landscape. Many organizations fail to share information, professionals neglect their own policies, and different organizations have distinct cybersecurity practices. The CSF aims to eliminate this chaos and provide a framework for consistent and effective cybersecurity management.
The NIST CSF was initially established in 2014 through the signing of Executive Order 13636 by former President Barack Obama. It became federal government policy under former President Donald Trump’s 2017 cybersecurity executive order. Version 2.0 of the NIST CSF was developed in conjunction with President Joe Biden’s National Cybersecurity Strategy in March 2023.
Version 2.0 of the NIST CSF expands the framework’s scope to include all sectors and places new emphasis on governance. The governance aspect recognizes the importance of cybersecurity as a significant source of enterprise risk and encourages senior business leaders to prioritize it alongside other critical areas.
The NIST CSF 2.0 includes Quick Start guides, reference tools, and organizational and community profile guides. These resources simplify the implementation process compared to previous versions. It also introduces the “Govern” function, which helps organizations make informed decisions about their cybersecurity strategies.
The NIST CSF is organized into four components: Core, Organizational Profiles, Tiers, and Informative References. The Core component consists of functions, categories, and subcategories that outline specific cybersecurity outcomes. Organizational Profiles help organizations assess their current cybersecurity status and establish goals for improved security. Tiers categorize organizations based on their implementation of CSF standards, ranging from partial implementation to total adoption. Informative References provide additional resources and guidelines for implementing the framework.
The NIST CSF is continually updated to remain relevant to evolving organizational needs. NIST takes into account feedback from industry representatives and incorporates it during annual conferences and requests for comments and information from large organizations.
The NIST CSF impacts a wide range of individuals within organizations, from IT teams and CXOs responsible for implementation to regular employees expected to follow security standards. Business leaders play a crucial role in empowering their security teams and promoting organizational cybersecurity. Implementing the CSF can improve an organization’s security posture and position it as a leader in cybersecurity practices.
To implement the NIST CSF, organizations can visit NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework website and access various resources, including methodologies, guidelines, case studies, educational materials, example profiles, and more. The CSF does not prescribe specific methods for achieving outcomes but provides online resources that offer guidance on practices and controls.
Implementing the NIST CSF can enhance the cybersecurity practices of organizations of all sizes. It is an opportunity to establish forward-looking cybersecurity measures and mitigate the risk of catastrophic cybersecurity events.
