The NIST cybersecurity framework is a globally recognised leading set of standards and guidelines that serves government, businesses, and industry, ensuring they are well-equipped to manage cybersecurity risks effectively.
At the 848 Group, our cybersecurity approach aligns with the robust foundations of the internationally acclaimed NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
So, what is it?
Developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the NIST Cybersecurity Framework – or the NIST CSF – is a comprehensive guide designed to help organisations improve their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber-attacks. It offers a flexible and scalable approach, allowing for customisation to fit the specific security needs and risks of an organisation.
By adopting this framework, businesses can enhance their security posture, resilience, and capability to protect critical infrastructure. The framework is structured around five core functions, each playing a pivotal role in a holistic cybersecurity strategy. In this blog, we delve into what each of these functions entails.
The 5 Core Functions of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework
1. Identify
‘Identify’ is the first function of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. It helps you to develop an overall risk management approach to cybersecurity. ‘Identify’ involves developing an understanding of your resources and the cybersecurity risks to systems, assets, data, and capabilities. By identifying the business context, resources that support critical functions, and associated cybersecurity risks, you can prioritise efforts in alignment with your risk management strategy and business needs.
2. Protect
Under the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, the ‘Protect’ function outlines measures to ensure the delivery of critical infrastructure services. It encompasses measures to protect the identity of users, assets, and data, limiting or containing the impact of a potential cybersecurity event. This function is vital for maintaining customer trust and the stability of day-to-day operations.
3. Detect
When you are under attack, you may not always know right away. The ‘Detect’ function in the NIST CSF focuses on developing and implementing the appropriate activities to identify the occurrence of a cybersecurity event in real-time. This capability is essential for initiating swift response efforts and minimising the impact on your business.
4. Respond
When you know you are under attack, you have to act fast. The ‘Respond’ function, as defined by the framework, involves actions taken in response to a detected cybersecurity event. It includes response planning, communication, analysis, mitigation, and improvements, ensuring you can effectively contain the impact of a cybersecurity incident and prevent future occurrences.
5. Recover
And once you have stopped the attack, you need to get back to normal. The ‘Recover’ function emphasises restoring capabilities or services impaired due to a cybersecurity event. Within the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, it involves recovery planning, improvements, and communications to get services and capabilities back up and running as quick as possible, reducing impact on your organisation and its stakeholders.
Embracing a Leading Security Approach with the 848 Group
Our cybersecurity approach at the 848 Group is rooted in the principles and guidelines of the NIST CSF. By leveraging this internationally recognised framework, we are committed to offering robust security assessments and solutions that are tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges of our clients. Our services are built on the core functions of Identify > Protect > Detect > Respond > Recover. This includes everything from initial assessments and remediation to incident response and ongoing monitoring.
Our goal is to ensure your digital environments are secure, resilient, and capable of withstanding today’s cyber threats.
Get in touch to learn more about our comprehensive cybersecurity approach and how it can benefit your organisation. Explore our services, gain insights into our strategic methodologies, and discover how our team of certified security specialists can help you achieve cybersecurity excellence.
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