NIST CSF 2.0: A Practical Guide
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is the gold standard for building a security program. Version 2.0 adds a crucial new function: Govern. Here is what it means for your business.
Executive Summary
- • It's not just IT: The new "Govern" function explicitly places responsibility on leadership, not just the IT department.
- • Supply Chain Matters: Vendor risk management is now a core component of the framework.
- • Universal Language: It provides a common vocabulary to discuss risk between technical teams and board members.
The 6 Core Functions
NIST CSF 2.0 organizes cybersecurity outcomes into six high-level functions.
1. Govern (GV)
The Strategy. Establish and monitor the organization's risk management strategy, expectations, and policy. This is the "tone from the top."
2. Identify (ID)
The Inventory. Understand what you have (assets, data, software) and what risks affect them. You can't protect what you don't know exists.
3. Protect (PR)
The Shield. Implement safeguards to ensure delivery of critical services. Includes Access Control, Awareness Training, and Data Security.
4. Detect (DE)
The Watchtower. Develop and implement appropriate activities to identify the occurrence of a cybersecurity event (Monitoring, Hunting).
5. Respond (RS)
The Firefighters. Take action regarding a detected cybersecurity incident. Analysis, Mitigation, and Communication.
6. Recover (RC)
The Comeback. Restore capabilities or services that were impaired. Backups, recovery planning, and lessons learned.
Why Adoption Matters
Adopting NIST CSF isn't about checking boxes. It's about shifting from "we bought a firewall" to "we manage risk." For mid-market organizations, aligning with NIST CSF is often the fastest way to satisfy cyber insurance requirements and build trust with enterprise customers.
Common Questions
Is NIST CSF mandatory?
For most private sector companies, it is voluntary. However, it is widely considered the standard of "due care" in legal settings and is mandatory for US federal agencies.
How is this different from NIST 800-171?
NIST CSF is a high-level strategic framework for all organizations. NIST 800-171 is a specific set of 110 controls required for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in federal contracts.
Where do I start?
Start with "Identify" and "Govern." If you don't know what assets you have or who is responsible for them, buying security tools won't help.
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