New Framework: NIST CSF 2.0

Fact: NIST CSF has been the second-most used framework within ControlMap (just behind CIS Controls). This framework has been a pioneer in security compliance and is frequently the topic of conversation with our partners. 

With the introduction of NIST CSF 2.0, MSPs can ensure their clients have a cyber risk mitigation that works for them – regardless of their industry or size. 

What is NIST CSF 2.0?

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a security standard developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to help organizations manage and improve their cybersecurity posture. It provides a common language to assess and manage an organization’s cybersecurity risk. Over the past decade, NIST CSF has been a widely used framework by MSPs and their clients. 

Now, NIST CSF has even more to offer. As the first major update to the framework since 2014, NIST CSF 2.0 takes cybersecurity compliance up a notch. The most notable updates include:

• Broader audience

Historically, NIST CSF was an essential framework for critical infrastructure sectors, such as healthcare or financial services. Now, NIST CSF 2.0 caters to a wider range of businesses and has been adapted to support any sector. Revisions to the framework have made it applicable to organizations of any size as well, supporting compliance programs of any maturity level. 

• New Core Function: Govern

With the addition of a new core function, NIST CSF 2.0 highlights the importance of governance in mitigating cyber risk. Moreover, some outcomes previously listed under the Identify function are now under Govern. Ultimately, this update demonstrates the importance of governance, helping to pair compliance to risk with the highest level of standards. 

The Benefits of NIST CSF 2.0

Many of the benefits of NIST CSF apply to NIST CSF 2.0. Here are some of the advantages of implementing NIST CSF 2.0. 

• Flexibility: NIST CSF 2.0 provides a flexible framework that can be tailored to fit the specific needs and risk profile of an organization. It is useful regardless of the maturity level and technical sophistication of an organization’s security compliance programs. So, it’s a great standard for MSPs to offer their clients across industries. 

• Educational Resources: Worried that your clients will be overwhelmed by NIST CSF 2.0? Good news! With NIST CSF 2.0, resources are provided to help inform users on how they can achieve the framework’s core outcomes. From Quick Start guides to examples, these resources allow organizations to adopt and manage NIST CSF 2.0 without having to be dedicated cybersecurity experts. 

• Recognition: In general, NIST CSF has gained widespread recognition and acceptance by security professionals, including MSPs. Adopting NIST CSF 2.0 demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity best practices and can enhance an organization’s reputation and credibility. 

Ready to get started?

It’s time for your clients to have peace of mind. Login to ControlMap to get started on NIST CSF 2.0. 

For more information or to learn about jumpstarting your own vCISO services with NIST CSF 2.0, request a demo.