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Frequently Asked Questions About NIST
What is the purpose of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) provides a structured approach to managing and reducing cybersecurity risks. Its purpose is to help organizations identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover from cyber threats. Developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the framework promotes best practices for safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive data. It is widely adopted because it is flexible, risk-based, and scalable, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes and industries.
How to implement the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
Implementing the NIST CSF involves five key steps:
- Assess Current State: Evaluate existing cybersecurity policies and controls.
- Define Target Profile: Set desired outcomes based on business objectives and risk tolerance.
- Gap Analysis: Compare current state to target profile to identify weaknesses.
- Develop Action Plan: Prioritize improvements based on risk and resources.
- Continuous Monitoring: Regularly review and update the framework to address evolving threats.
Organizations often integrate NIST CSF with risk management programs and compliance requirements such as GLBA or GDPR for a holistic security posture.
What are the main components of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
The framework consists of three main components:
- Core: Five functions—Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover—supported by categories and subcategories.
- Implementation Tiers: Four levels that describe how an organization manages cybersecurity risk, from Partial to Adaptive.
- Profiles: Customized alignment of the framework to an organization’s business needs and risk priorities.
Need help with getting started? Learn more about our NIST assessment or our NIST module in TRAC.