CIS vs. NIST

Attribute	CIS	NIST
Focus	Security best practices	Information security standards and guidelines
Scope	Specific security recommendations	Comprehensive security framework
Approach	Prescriptive	Descriptive
Updates	Frequent updates based on emerging threats	Periodic updates based on research and feedback

Introduction

When it comes to cybersecurity frameworks, two of the most widely recognized and utilized are the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework. Both frameworks provide guidelines and best practices for organizations to improve their cybersecurity posture, but they have some key differences in terms of scope, focus, and implementation.

Scope

The CIS Controls focus on providing a set of actionable security controls that organizations can implement to protect their systems and data from cyber threats. There are a total of 20 controls in the CIS framework, covering areas such as inventory and control of hardware assets, continuous vulnerability management, and controlled use of administrative privileges. These controls are meant to be practical and easy to implement, making them accessible to organizations of all sizes.

In contrast, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework takes a broader approach, providing a high-level framework that organizations can use to assess and improve their overall cybersecurity risk management processes. The NIST framework is divided into five core functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. Each function includes categories and subcategories that organizations can use to develop a comprehensive cybersecurity program.

Focus

The CIS Controls are focused on providing specific, actionable guidance on how to secure systems and data. The controls are meant to be implemented in a prioritized manner, with organizations starting with the most critical controls and working their way down the list. The CIS framework is designed to help organizations address common cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities, making it a practical and effective tool for improving security.

On the other hand, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is more focused on helping organizations develop a holistic approach to cybersecurity risk management. The framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing organizations to tailor their cybersecurity programs to their specific needs and risk profiles. The NIST framework emphasizes the importance of risk assessment and management, helping organizations identify and prioritize their cybersecurity risks.

Implementation

One of the key differences between the CIS Controls and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is their approach to implementation. The CIS Controls provide specific, prescriptive guidance on how to implement each control, including detailed steps and recommendations for each control. This makes it easier for organizations to understand what is required to implement the controls effectively.

In contrast, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework is more flexible in its implementation approach. The framework provides guidelines and best practices for each core function and category, but it does not provide detailed steps or recommendations for implementation. This allows organizations to tailor their cybersecurity programs to their specific needs and requirements, but it can also make it more challenging to determine how to effectively implement the framework.

Conclusion

Both the CIS Controls and the NIST Cybersecurity Framework are valuable tools for organizations looking to improve their cybersecurity posture. The CIS Controls provide specific, actionable guidance on how to secure systems and data, while the NIST framework offers a broader, more flexible approach to cybersecurity risk management. Ultimately, the best framework for an organization will depend on its specific needs, resources, and risk profile. By understanding the differences between the two frameworks, organizations can make an informed decision about which framework is best suited to their cybersecurity goals.