Staying ahead of threats is a challenge for organisations of all sizes. Reported global security incidents surged by 69.8% between February and March 2024. Using a structured approach to cybersecurity is essential to protect your organisation.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) created the Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), offering an industry-agnostic approach to security. Designed to help companies manage and reduce cybersecurity risks, the framework was recently updated to NIST CSF 2.0 in 2024.
CSF 2.0 builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering a more streamlined and flexible approach to cybersecurity. This guide aims to simplify the framework, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes.
Understanding the Core of NIST CSF 2.0
At the heart of CSF 2.0 is the Core, which consists of five concurrent and continuous Functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. These Functions provide a high-level strategic view of cybersecurity risk and an organisation’s management of that risk, allowing for a dynamic approach to addressing threats.
1. Identify
This function involves identifying and understanding the organisation’s assets, cyber risks, and vulnerabilities. It’s essential to know what you need to protect before installing safeguards.
2. Protect
The Protect function focuses on implementing safeguards to deter, detect, and mitigate cybersecurity risks. This includes measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and data encryption.
3. Detect
Early detection of cybersecurity incidents is critical for minimising damage. The Detect function emphasises the importance of having mechanisms to identify and report suspicious activity.
4. Respond
The Respond function outlines the steps to take in the event of a cybersecurity incident, including activities such as containment, eradication, recovery, and learning from the incident.
5. Recover
The Recover function focuses on restoring normal operations after a cybersecurity incident. This includes activities like data restoration, system recovery, and business continuity planning.
Profiles and Tiers: Tailoring the Framework
The updated framework introduces the concept of Profiles and Tiers, helping organisations tailor their cybersecurity practices to their specific needs, risk tolerances, and resources.
Profiles
Profiles align the Functions, Categories, and Subcategories with the business requirements, risk tolerance, and resources of the organisation.
Tiers
Tiers provide context on how an organisation views cybersecurity risk and the processes in place to manage that risk. They range from Partial (Tier 1) to Adaptive (Tier 4).
Benefits of Using NIST CSF 2.0
There are many benefits to using NIST CSF 2.0, including:
- Improved Cybersecurity Posture: By following NIST CSF 2.0, organisations can develop a more comprehensive and effective cybersecurity program.
- Reduced Risk of Cyberattacks: The framework helps organisations identify and mitigate cybersecurity risks, reducing the likelihood of cyberattacks.
- Enhanced Compliance: NIST CSF 2.0 aligns with many industry standards and regulations, helping organisations meet compliance requirements.
- Improved Communication: The framework provides a common language for discussing cybersecurity risks, and improving communication within the organisation.
- Cost Savings: NIST CSF 2.0 can help organisations save money by preventing cyberattacks and reducing the impact of incidents.
Getting Started with NIST CSF 2.0
If you’re interested in getting started with NIST CSF 2.0, here are a few steps you can take:
- Familiarise yourself with the framework: Take some time to read through the NIST CSF 2.0 publication and understand the Core Functions and categories.
- Assess your current cybersecurity posture: Conduct an assessment to identify any gaps or weaknesses in your current cybersecurity measures.
- Develop a cybersecurity plan: Based on your assessment, create a plan to implement NIST CSF 2.0 in your organisation.
- Seek professional help: If you need assistance, consider partnering with a managed IT services provider for guidance and support.
By following these steps, you can begin to implement NIST CSF 2.0 in your organisation, improving your cybersecurity posture in the process.
Schedule a Cybersecurity Assessment Today
NIST CSF 2.0 is a valuable tool for managing and reducing cybersecurity risks. Following its guidance will help you develop a more comprehensive and effective cybersecurity program.
If you’re looking to improve your organisation’s cybersecurity posture, NIST CSF 2.0 is a great place to start. Datalinq Solutions can help you get started with a cybersecurity assessment to identify assets that need protection and security risks in your network. Together, we can create a budget-friendly plan tailored to your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a cybersecurity assessment.
