NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)
The NIST CSF provides a policy framework for managing cybersecurity risk based on existing standards, guidelines, and practices.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework
Overview
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a voluntary framework consisting of standards, guidelines, and best practices to manage cybersecurity-related risk.
Framework Core Functions
1. Identify (ID)
Develop organizational understanding to manage cybersecurity risk.
Categories:
- Asset Management
- Business Environment
- Governance
- Risk Assessment
- Risk Management Strategy
- Supply Chain Risk Management
2. Protect (PR)
Implement safeguards to ensure delivery of critical services.
Categories:
- Identity Management & Access Control
- Awareness and Training
- Data Security
- Information Protection Processes
- Maintenance
- Protective Technology
3. Detect (DE)
Define activities to identify cybersecurity events.
Categories:
- Anomalies and Events
- Security Continuous Monitoring
- Detection Processes
4. Respond (RS)
Take action regarding detected cybersecurity incidents.
Categories:
- Response Planning
- Communications
- Analysis
- Mitigation
- Improvements
5. Recover (RC)
Maintain resilience and restore capabilities impaired by incidents.
Categories:
- Recovery Planning
- Improvements
- Communications
Implementation Tiers
| Tier | Description | |------|-------------| | Tier 1 | Partial - ad hoc, reactive | | Tier 2 | Risk Informed - approved but not org-wide | | Tier 3 | Repeatable - formal, consistent policies | | Tier 4 | Adaptive - continuous improvement |
Using the Framework
- Prioritize and scope
- Orient current state
- Create target profile
- Conduct gap analysis
- Implement action plan
- Monitor and improve