Foundations of NIST Cybersecurity Frameworks

Overview

Class Central Tips

Dive into the world of NIST cybersecurity frameworks and build a strong foundation in managing and securing digital assets. This course begins with an introduction to the history and role of NIST, guiding you through essential resources and publications. You will explore NIST’s relationships with various U.S. federal agencies and international standards organizations, providing you with a broad understanding of its impact on cybersecurity practices. As you progress, you will delve into the core components of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) and Risk Management Framework (RMF). Learn about the key functions, tiers, and profiles of CSF, and how they interconnect with other NIST publications. Understand how to assess and manage risks by evaluating threats, vulnerabilities, and their potential impact on business operations. Real-world case studies will be used to demonstrate the practical application of these frameworks, helping you to develop a comprehensive cybersecurity program. The course also covers critical aspects of asset management and protection. You will learn to identify and inventory critical assets, conduct business impact assessments, and establish effective security policies. The latter sections focus on system auditing, monitoring, and alerting mechanisms, equipping you with the tools and knowledge to proactively manage security incidents and maintain compliance with NIST standards. This course is designed for cybersecurity professionals, IT managers, and compliance officers seeking to strengthen their understanding of NIST frameworks. A basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts and familiarity with IT systems are recommended.

Syllabus

NIST Cybersecurity Frameworks and Standards

In this module, we will explore the foundational concepts of the NIST Cybersecurity Frameworks, including an overview of key publications and standards. You'll learn how NIST collaborates with various organizations and gain a comprehensive understanding of the CSF and RMF, which are crucial for building and managing cybersecurity programs.

Identification and Asset Management

In this module, we will delve into the Identify function of the NIST CSF. You'll learn about creating and maintaining an asset inventory, conducting a Business Impact Assessment (BIA), and establishing effective security policies and procedures. This section is essential for understanding how to recognize and manage cybersecurity risks.

NIST's Protect Function for Comprehensive Cybersecurity

In this module, we will cover the Protect function of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, focusing on safeguarding information through people, processes, and technology. You will learn about protective technologies, data security, and access control methods, as well as strategies for maintaining physical and personnel security.

Monitoring, Alerting, and Assessments in Cybersecurity

In this module, we will focus on the Detect and Respond functions of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. You'll learn how to set up effective monitoring and alerting systems, conduct thorough assessments and audits, and use these tools to proactively identify and mitigate potential security issues.