The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a set of voluntary guidelines designed to help organizations assess and improve their ability to prevent, detect, and respond to cybersecurity risks. Developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the framework was initially published in 2014 for critical infrastructure sectors but has since been widely adopted across various industries, including government and private enterprises globally. The framework integrates existing standards, guidelines, and best practices to provide a structured approach to cybersecurity risk management.
The CSF is composed of three primary components: the Core, Implementation Tiers, and Profiles. The Core outlines five key cybersecurity functions—Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover—each of which is further divided into specific categories and subcategories. These functions offer a high-level, outcome-driven approach to managing cybersecurity risks. The Implementation Tiers help organizations assess the sophistication of their cybersecurity practices, while the Profiles allow for customization based on an organization's unique risk profile and needs.
Since its inception, the CSF has undergone several updates to reflect the evolving nature of cybersecurity. Version 1.1, released in 2018, introduced enhancements related to supply chain risk management and self-assessment processes. The most recent update, Version 2.0, was published in 2024, expanding the framework’s applicability and adding new guidance on cybersecurity governance and continuous improvement practices.
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is used internationally and has been translated into multiple languages. It serves as a benchmark for cybersecurity standards, helping organizations align their practices with recognized global standards, such as ISO/IEC 27001 and COBIT. While widely praised, the framework has been criticized for the cost and complexity involved in its implementation, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.