What is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)?

What is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)? 

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a voluntary, risk-based approach to help organizations manage and reduce cybersecurity risk. Initially published in 2014 and updated in 2024 as CSF 2.0, it provides a structured methodology applicable across various sectors, including critical infrastructure, healthcare, finance and government. 

The NIST CSF: 

  • Is a high-level framework that is applicable to any organization, regardless of its size or industry; 
  • Focuses on identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to and recovering from cybersecurity risks; and 
  • Is known for its flexibility, organizations can adapt and implement the NIST CSF to their specific needs and risk profiles. It encourages a risk-based approach to cybersecurity. 

NIST CSF version 2.0 adds a sixth categories of functions: 

  • Identify; 
  • Protect; 
  • Detect; 
  • Respond; 
  • Recover; and 
  • Governance  

            The CSF is organized into three (3) main components: 

            • Framework Core: Comprises six (6) high-level functions that provide a structure for cybersecurity activities. These functions are further divided into categories and subcategories, each with associated informative references to standards and best practices. 
            • Implementation Tiers: Describes the degree to which an organization's cybersecurity risk management practices exhibit the characteristics defined in the Framework. They range from Tier 1 (Partial) to Tier 4 (Adaptive), helping organizations assess their current cybersecurity posture and plan for improvement. 
            • Profiles: Aligns the Framework Core with the business requirements, risk tolerance and resources of the organization. Profiles help in identifying opportunities for improving cybersecurity posture and aligning with desired outcomes. 

            While the NIST CSF has the least coverage of the major cybersecurity frameworks, it works great for smaller and unregulated businesses that just want to align with a recognized cybersecurity framework. NIST CSF is commonly used by smaller businesses and unregulated industries.  

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