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Loading...To keep up with the pace of the modern era, it is essential to have comprehensive cybersecurity policies, plans, and processes in place. With this in mind, the Center for Internet Security (CIS) has released its latest version of CIS Controls v8, providing organizations with a reliable framework to secure their systems and networks.
What are the CIS Controls?
The CIS Controls are a set of prioritized actions that organizations can take to enhance their cybersecurity posture, prevent cyberattacks, and protect their valuable assets. The new version, CIS Controls v8, includes 18 key security practices that will help organizations build resilience against the most prevalent cyber threats. These controls are split into three categories: Basic, Foundational, and Organizational.
Who should use it?
The CIS Controls are designed for organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises. Every entity that relies on technology to operate must prioritize cybersecurity, and CIS Controls v8 offers a practical roadmap to achieve that goal. Even if you have an established security program in place, you can still benefit from CIS Controls v8 by fine-tuning your approach and filling any gaps that may exist.
Features
One of the key features of CIS Controls v8 is its flexibility, enabling organizations to tailor their cybersecurity approach as per their specific needs. It emphasizes the importance of end-to-end protection, starting from the basics, such as regular software updates, strong passwords, and network segmentation, to more advanced measures like intrusion detection, incident response planning, and continuous monitoring. Additionally, CIS Controls v8 has enhanced its focus on cloud security, recognizing the growing trend of cloud adoption among organizations.
Cautions/Drawbacks
One potential drawback of CIS Controls v8 is that it requires significant resources and effort to implement and maintain. Organizations must conduct a thorough risk assessment and allocate the necessary resources to ensure that they can fully leverage the benefits of this framework. Another potential challenge is that CIS Controls v8 is a guideline rather than a set of regulations, meaning that organizations can choose to prioritize some controls over others, potentially leaving them exposed to specific vulnerabilities.
How to access
CIS Controls is freely available on the CIS website, along with an implementation guide and a self-assessment tool. The self-assessment tool allows organizations to evaluate their current level of cybersecurity maturity and identify areas for improvement based on the CIS Controls v8 framework. Note: you may have to register to access the content.
How CIS Controls differ from CIS Benchmarks
While CIS Controls offer a roadmap for enhancing an organization’s cybersecurity posture, CIS Benchmarks provide specific guidance on hardening individual systems and applications. CIS Benchmarks are more granular and detail-oriented, while CIS Controls provide a high-level strategic approach to cybersecurity. Both frameworks complement each other. Use them together for a comprehensive security strategy.
Conclusion
CIS Controls offer a comprehensive and flexible framework to help organizations prioritize their cybersecurity efforts and protect against the most prevalent threats. While it requires significant investment and effort, the potential benefits of implementing the CIS Controls are well worth it. Cybersecurity is no longer optional, and organizations must take proactive measures to safeguard their assets and data. By following CIS Controls, organizations can enhance their resilience against the constantly evolving cyber threat landscape.
[…] is essential to understand that CIS Benchmarks are different from CIS Controls. While CIS Benchmarks offer guidelines for secure system configurations, CIS Controls provide a […]