CIS Security Controls Overview: Your Essential Guide

The CIS Security Controls, formerly known as the SANS Critical Security Controls or the SANS Top 20, are a set of best practices organizations can use to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. These controls provide a simplified and prioritized approach to threat protection, compliance with industry regulations, achieving essential cyber hygiene, and translating information into action.
They also help organizations abide by cybersecurity regulations and demonstrate a reasonable level of security. The CIS Controls consist of 18 safeguards that cover various aspects of cybersecurity, including inventory and control of enterprise assets, data protection, secure configuration of assets and software, access control management, continuous vulnerability management, and more.

Implementing the CIS Controls has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks, with studies showing that they can thwart 85% to 97% of attacks. The CIS Controls are also compatible with other security standards and frameworks, such as NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and more.

Key Takeaways:

• The CIS Security Controls are a set of best practices for enhancing cybersecurity.
• They help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture and comply with industry regulations.
• Implementing the CIS Controls can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks.
• The controls are compatible with other security standards and frameworks.
• Organizations can implement CIS Controls at different levels based on their resources and needs.

Understanding the CIS Controls

The CIS Controls consist of 18 safeguards that cover various aspects of cybersecurity, including inventory and control of enterprise assets, data protection, secure configuration of assets and software, access control management, continuous vulnerability management, and more. These controls provide a simplified and prioritized approach to threat protection and help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture.

By implementing CIS Controls, organizations can enhance their information security controls, network security controls, and data security controls. These safeguards not only offer comprehensive risk management but also align with various security frameworks, such as NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and more. This compatibility allows organizations to integrate the CIS Controls seamlessly into their existing cybersecurity infrastructure.

The CIS Controls act as a roadmap for organizations, translating information into action and helping them achieve essential cyber hygiene. They offer practical guidance on how to effectively secure critical assets, detect and respond to cyber threats, and continuously improve their security posture. By following these controls, organizations can prioritize their cybersecurity efforts and allocate resources effectively, ensuring that they are focusing on the most critical areas.

Table: CIS Controls Overview

CIS Control	Description
Control 1	Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets
Control 2	Inventory and Control of Software Assets
Control 3	Continuous Vulnerability Management
Control 4	Controlled Use of Administrative Privileges
Control 5	Secure Configuration for Hardware and Software on Mobile Devices, Laptops, Workstations, and Servers
Control 6	Maintenance, Monitoring, and Analysis of Audit Logs
Control 7	Email and Web Browser Protections
Control 8	Malware Defenses
Control 9	Limitation and Control of Network Ports, Protocols, and Services
Control 10	Data Recovery Capabilities
Control 11	Secure Configuration for Network Devices, such as Firewalls, Routers, and Switches
Control 12	Boundary Defense
Control 13	Data Protection
Control 14	Controlled Access Based on the Need to Know
Control 15	Wireless Access Control
Control 16	Account Monitoring and Control
Control 17	Implement a Security Awareness and Training Program
Control 18	Application Software Security

The CIS Controls provide a holistic approach to cybersecurity, addressing both technical and human factors. By implementing these controls, organizations can establish a solid foundation for their cybersecurity framework, reduce the risk of cyberattacks, and demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a reasonable level of security. Understanding and implementing the CIS Controls is essential for organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture and protect their critical assets from evolving threats.

Benefits of Implementing CIS Security Controls

By implementing the CIS Controls, organizations can achieve essential cyber hygiene, comply with industry regulations, and demonstrate a reasonable level of security. These controls provide a comprehensive framework for protecting against cyber threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring that organizations are well-prepared to defend their systems and data. Here are some key benefits of implementing the CIS Security Controls:

1. Enhanced Security: The CIS Controls offer a proven roadmap for improving an organization’s security posture. By implementing these controls, organizations can establish a robust security foundation, effectively mitigating risks and reducing the likelihood of successful cyberattacks.
2. Compliance with Industry Regulations: Compliance with industry regulations is crucial for organizations in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining customer trust. The CIS Controls align with various security standards, including NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, and HIPAA, making it easier for organizations to meet regulatory requirements.
3. Risk Management: The CIS Security Controls provide a systematic approach to risk management. By prioritizing controls based on their effectiveness, organizations can allocate their resources more efficiently and focus on implementing measures that address their most critical vulnerabilities.
4. Improved Incident Response: Implementing the CIS Controls enables organizations to establish robust incident response procedures. By having a predefined plan in place, organizations can effectively detect, contain, and mitigate security incidents, minimizing potential damage and reducing downtime.

Overall, implementing the CIS Security Controls not only enhances an organization’s cybersecurity posture but also helps them comply with industry regulations and effectively manage risks. By adopting these controls, organizations can proactively protect their systems and data, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of their critical assets.

Example of CIS Security Controls in Action: A Case Study

To illustrate the benefits of implementing CIS Security Controls, let’s consider a real-world example. rawCloud Company, a leading financial institution, decided to integrate CIS Controls into its cybersecurity framework. The company underwent a comprehensive assessment to identify its existing vulnerabilities and prioritize the implementation of controls based on their impact and effectiveness.

As a result of implementing the CIS Controls, rawCloud Company experienced a significant improvement in its overall security posture. They were able to identify and address critical vulnerabilities, effectively reducing the risk of cyberattacks. Additionally, by aligning with industry regulations and best practices, rawCloud Company gained the trust of its clients and demonstrated its commitment to data protection.

CIS Control Number	Control Title
1	Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets
2	Inventory and Control of Software Assets
3	Data Protection
4	Secure Configuration for Hardware and Software on Mobile Devices, Laptops, Workstations, and Servers
5	Account Management
6	Access Control Management
7	Continuous Vulnerability Management
8	Incident Response
9	Secure Configuration for Network Devices, such as Firewalls, Routers, and Switches
10	Data Recovery Capabilities

Studies have shown that implementing the CIS Controls can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks, with reports indicating they can thwart 85% to 97% of attacks. These controls provide a comprehensive framework that covers various aspects of cybersecurity, ensuring organizations have the necessary safeguards in place to protect their critical assets and sensitive data.

One of the key advantages of the CIS Controls is their compatibility with other security standards and frameworks. Organizations can integrate them seamlessly with existing frameworks such as NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and more, allowing for a unified approach to cybersecurity management. This compatibility ensures that organizations can adhere to industry best practices and regulatory requirements, enhancing their overall security posture.

In addition, the CIS Controls address the importance of continuous vulnerability management. By regularly assessing and patching vulnerabilities, organizations can proactively identify and address potential security gaps, minimizing the risk of exploitation by cybercriminals. This proactive approach helps organizations stay ahead of emerging threats and maintain a strong defense against evolving attack vectors.

CIS Control	Description
Inventory and Control of Enterprise Assets	Establishing and maintaining an accurate inventory of hardware and software assets to ensure effective governance and protection.
Data Protection	Implementing measures to safeguard sensitive data, including encryption, data loss prevention, and secure data handling practices.
Secure Configuration of Assets and Software	Applying secure configuration baselines to devices, systems, and software to prevent vulnerabilities caused by misconfigurations.
Access Control Management	Enforcing access controls to limit unauthorized access to systems and data, including strong authentication and privilege management.
Continuous Vulnerability Management	Regularly scanning for and remediating vulnerabilities to prevent exploitation by threat actors.

By implementing the CIS Controls, organizations can adopt cybersecurity best practices, comply with security standards, and enhance their risk management strategies. These controls provide a roadmap for organizations to fortify their defenses, detect and respond to threats, and minimize the potential impact of cyberattacks. With the ever-evolving threat landscape, it is imperative for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity and leverage frameworks like the CIS Controls to safeguard their digital assets and maintain the trust of their stakeholders.

Implementing CIS Controls at Different Levels

The CIS Controls provide flexibility for organizations to implement them at different levels, depending on their specific requirements and available resources. Whether you are just starting out on your cybersecurity journey or looking to enhance your existing security measures, the CIS Controls offer a comprehensive framework to protect your digital assets. Let’s explore how you can implement the CIS Controls at different levels to ensure optimal security.

1. Basic Level:

The basic level of CIS Controls implementation focuses on establishing fundamental security practices. This level is suitable for small organizations or those with limited cybersecurity resources. At this level, you can start by implementing the foundational controls, such as ensuring hardware and software inventories are up to date, applying secure configurations to devices and systems, and implementing strong access controls. By laying this groundwork, you can establish a solid foundation for your organization’s cybersecurity.

2. Foundational Level:

At the foundational level, organizations have a more mature cybersecurity posture and are ready to implement additional controls to enhance their security. This level builds upon the basic controls and extends the protection to a wider range of assets and processes. Here, you can focus on controls like monitoring and analyzing logs, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, establishing incident response procedures, and providing cybersecurity training for employees. By implementing these controls, you can further strengthen your organization’s resilience against cyber threats.

3. Organizational Level:

For organizations with robust cybersecurity programs and resources, the organizational level of CIS Controls implementation offers an advanced level of protection. At this level, you can focus on implementing controls that align with industry best practices and regulatory requirements specific to your organization. This includes controls such as implementing advanced threat intelligence and sharing mechanisms, establishing a comprehensive risk management framework, conducting regular third-party audits, and engaging in continuous security monitoring and improvement. By implementing these controls, you can ensure that your organization remains at the forefront of cybersecurity.

Control Level	Key Focus Areas
Basic	Hardware and software inventory, Secure configurations, Access controls
Foundational	Log monitoring, Vulnerability assessments, Incident response, Employee training
Organizational	Threat intelligence, Risk management, Third-party audits, Continuous monitoring

Implementing CIS Controls at different levels allows organizations to tailor their cybersecurity efforts based on their unique needs and capacities. By following the CIS Controls, organizations can establish a solid defense against cyber threats and ensure the protection of their valuable assets.

The CIS Controls are compatible with various security standards and frameworks, including NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and more. These controls provide organizations with a comprehensive framework to enhance their cybersecurity posture and meet compliance requirements. By implementing the CIS Controls, organizations can align their security practices with recognized industry standards and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a reasonable level of security.

One of the key advantages of utilizing the CIS Controls is their ability to address a wide range of security requirements. Whether an organization needs to protect sensitive data, secure their network infrastructure, or manage access control, the CIS Controls offer practical solutions and guidelines to help organizations achieve their desired security outcomes.

Additionally, the CIS Controls provide organizations with a clear roadmap for implementing best practices in cybersecurity. These controls define specific actions and measures that organizations can take to mitigate risks, detect security breaches, and respond effectively to incidents. By following the CIS Controls, organizations can establish a solid foundation for their cybersecurity efforts and ensure ongoing compliance with relevant security standards and regulations.

For organizations looking to enhance their security posture and achieve compliance, the CIS Controls offer a robust and proven framework. By implementing these controls, organizations can align their security practices with industry standards, effectively manage risks, and demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a secure environment.

Benefits of Implementing CIS Security Controls

The implementation of CIS Security Controls provides numerous benefits for organizations striving to enhance their cybersecurity posture:

• Alignment with cybersecurity best practices: By following the CIS Controls, organizations can align their security practices with recognized industry standards and best practices.
• Compliance with security standards: The CIS Controls help organizations meet compliance requirements by providing a comprehensive framework that addresses various security aspects.
• Risk management: Implementing CIS Controls allows organizations to identify and prioritize security risks, implement appropriate controls, and manage risks effectively.

 

CIS Control	Description
Control 1	Inventory and control of enterprise assets
Control 2	Data protection
Control 3	Secure configuration of assets and software
Control 4	Continuous vulnerability management

“Implementing the CIS Controls has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks, with studies showing that they can thwart 85% to 97% of attacks.”

These controls cover various aspects of cybersecurity, such as inventory and control of enterprise assets, data protection, secure configuration of assets and software, access control management, and continuous vulnerability management. By implementing these controls, organizations can establish a strong cybersecurity foundation and reduce the risk of cyberattacks.

Overall, the CIS Controls provide organizations with a practical and effective approach to enhancing their cybersecurity posture, achieving compliance with security standards, and managing risks. By implementing these controls, organizations can strengthen their security practices, align with industry best practices, and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a secure environment for their stakeholders.

Importance of Continuous Monitoring and Updating

To stay protected and updated, it is crucial to continuously monitor and update the CIS Controls as new threats emerge and cybersecurity best practices evolve. Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and organizations need to stay one step ahead to ensure the security of their systems and data. By actively monitoring and regularly updating the CIS Controls, organizations can proactively identify vulnerabilities, respond to emerging threats, and adapt their security measures accordingly.

Continuous monitoring allows organizations to detect any anomalies or potential security breaches in real-time, enabling them to respond swiftly and mitigate any potential damage. It also helps organizations assess the effectiveness of their implemented controls, identify any gaps or weaknesses, and make the necessary adjustments to enhance their cybersecurity posture.

Updating the CIS Controls is essential because cybersecurity best practices and industry standards are constantly evolving. Threat landscapes are continuously changing, with new attack vectors and vulnerabilities being discovered regularly. By updating the CIS Controls, organizations can align their security measures with the latest recommendations and guidelines, ensuring that they stay ahead of potential threats.

Furthermore, by staying up to date with the latest cybersecurity trends and practices, organizations can demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a high level of security. This can be crucial in building trust with customers, partners, and stakeholders, as well as complying with industry regulations and standards.

In summary, continuous monitoring and updating of the CIS Controls are vital for organizations to effectively protect their systems and data from emerging threats. By actively monitoring for potential vulnerabilities and regularly updating their security measures, organizations can enhance their cybersecurity posture, mitigate risks, and maintain a proactive defense against cyberattacks.

Key Steps to Implementing CIS Security Controls

Implementing the CIS Security Controls requires a systematic approach, starting with an initial assessment to identify gaps and prioritize controls based on risk management principles. By following these key steps, organizations can effectively enhance their cybersecurity posture and mitigate potential threats.

1. Assess Your Current Environment: Begin by conducting a comprehensive assessment of your organization’s current cybersecurity practices and capabilities. This includes inventorying your assets, identifying vulnerabilities, evaluating existing controls, and understanding potential risks. This assessment will serve as the foundation for implementing the CIS Controls.

2. Prioritize Controls: Once you have identified the gaps in your cybersecurity framework, prioritize the CIS Controls based on the potential impact, likelihood of occurrence, and available resources. It is important to align the controls with your organization’s risk appetite and business objectives. Start with the most critical controls that address immediate risks.

3. Develop an Implementation Plan: Create a detailed plan for implementing the prioritized CIS Controls. This plan should outline specific tasks, responsible individuals or teams, timelines, and milestones. It is crucial to involve all relevant stakeholders, including IT, security teams, and senior management, to ensure buy-in and support throughout the implementation process.

4. Educate and Train Staff: Security awareness and training are essential for the successful implementation of the CIS Controls. Provide comprehensive training programs to educate employees about the importance of cybersecurity best practices and their role in safeguarding organizational assets. Regularly communicate updates and changes to the controls to keep staff informed and engaged.

5. Monitor and Evaluate: Continuously monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented CIS Controls. Regularly review security metrics, conduct vulnerability assessments, and perform audits to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement. Adjust your implementation plan as needed to address emerging threats and changing business requirements.

Remember, implementing the CIS Security Controls is an ongoing process that requires dedication, commitment, and regular reassessment. By following these key steps, organizations can strengthen their cybersecurity defenses, reduce the risk of cyberattacks, and demonstrate their proactive approach to risk management and compliance with industry best practices.

Key Steps to Implementing CIS Security Controls	Benefits
Assess Your Current Environment	– Identifying vulnerabilities and risks
Prioritize Controls	– Focusing efforts on critical controls
Develop an Implementation Plan	– Creating a roadmap for successful implementation
Educate and Train Staff	– Ensuring employees understand their role in cybersecurity
Monitor and Evaluate	– Ensuring ongoing effectiveness and compliance

Overcoming Challenges in Implementing CIS Controls

While implementing the CIS Controls can bring significant benefits, organizations may encounter challenges related to resource allocation, cultural resistance to change, and aligning with existing security standards. However, with careful planning and proper strategies, these challenges can be overcome to ensure successful implementation and integration of the CIS Controls.

Resource Allocation

One of the common challenges organizations face when implementing the CIS Controls is resource allocation. Cybersecurity initiatives require dedicated time, budget, and personnel. It is crucial to assess the organization’s current resources and identify any gaps. By conducting a thorough assessment, organizations can prioritize their security needs and allocate resources accordingly. This may involve investing in training programs for existing staff or hiring specialized personnel to manage the implementation process.

Cultural Resistance to Change

Another challenge organizations may encounter is cultural resistance to change. Implementing the CIS Controls often requires new processes, policies, and technologies, which can disrupt established routines and workflows. To overcome this challenge, organizations should focus on creating a culture of cybersecurity awareness and engagement. This can be achieved through comprehensive training programs, regular communication, and involving employees in the decision-making process. By fostering a culture of security, organizations can gain employee buy-in and ensure smooth implementation.

Aligning with Existing Security Standards

Organizations that already have existing security standards or frameworks in place may face challenges in aligning the CIS Controls with their current practices. However, the CIS Controls are designed to complement and enhance existing security measures. Organizations can conduct a gap analysis to identify areas where the CIS Controls can be integrated with their current security framework. This can help ensure a seamless transition and minimize disruptions. Consulting with cybersecurity experts or engaging with industry forums can provide valuable insights and guidance in aligning the CIS Controls with existing standards.

In summary, while implementing the CIS Controls may present challenges, organizations can overcome these obstacles by effectively managing resources, fostering a culture of cybersecurity, and aligning the controls with existing security standards. By addressing these challenges head-on, organizations can strengthen their cybersecurity posture, enhance risk management practices, and ensure ongoing protection against evolving threats.

Monitoring and Assessing CIS Controls Effectiveness

Regular monitoring and assessment of the CIS Controls’ effectiveness are essential to ensure their ongoing alignment with evolving threats and maintain a robust cybersecurity posture. By regularly reviewing and evaluating the implementation of these controls, organizations can identify areas of improvement, address vulnerabilities, and stay ahead of potential cyber threats.

Why Monitor and Assess?

Monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of the CIS Controls allows organizations to gauge their cybersecurity preparedness and identify any gaps in their defense mechanisms. It provides valuable insights into the overall health of the organization’s security infrastructure and helps prioritize remediation efforts.

Continuous monitoring also enables organizations to stay up-to-date with evolving threats and emerging vulnerabilities. By regularly analyzing security logs, conducting vulnerability assessments, and performing penetration testing, organizations can proactively identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they are exploited by malicious actors.

Key Metrics and Indicators

When monitoring and assessing the effectiveness of the CIS Controls, organizations should consider key metrics and indicators. These may include:

• Number of security incidents detected and resolved
• Percentage of vulnerabilities identified and remediated
• Time taken to detect and respond to security incidents
• Effectiveness of access controls and user authentication
• Compliance with security policies and regulatory requirements

By collecting and analyzing data related to these metrics, organizations can gain a comprehensive view of their cybersecurity posture and make informed decisions to improve their overall security resilience.

The Role of Automation

With the increasing complexity and volume of cybersecurity threats, manual monitoring and assessment processes may be insufficient. Organizations should consider leveraging automation tools, such as security information and event management (SIEM) systems, vulnerability scanners, and threat intelligence platforms, to streamline these tasks.

Automation not only allows for real-time monitoring but also enables proactive threat hunting, anomaly detection, and incident response. By automating routine tasks, organizations can free up their cybersecurity teams to focus on more strategic initiatives and ensure timely and effective remediation of identified vulnerabilities.

Metric	Measurement
Number of security incidents detected and resolved	Monthly incident reports
Percentage of vulnerabilities identified and remediated	Quarterly vulnerability scan results
Time taken to detect and respond to security incidents	Average response time
Effectiveness of access controls and user authentication	Annual user access audit results
Compliance with security policies and regulatory requirements	Results of internal and external audits

Conclusion

Implementing the CIS Security Controls is a crucial step in strengthening your organization’s cybersecurity framework and protecting against a wide range of threats. The CIS Controls, formerly known as the SANS Critical Security Controls or the SANS Top 20, provide a set of best practices that can enhance your organization’s cybersecurity posture.

These controls offer a simplified and prioritized approach to threat protection, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and achieving essential cyber hygiene. By implementing the CIS Controls, you can effectively translate valuable information into actionable steps, safeguarding your organization’s assets and data.

The 18 safeguards that make up the CIS Controls cover various aspects of cybersecurity, including inventory and control of enterprise assets, data protection, secure configuration of assets and software, access control management, and continuous vulnerability management, among others.

Studies have shown that implementing CIS Controls can significantly reduce the risk of cyberattacks, with a success rate of thwarting 85% to 97% of attacks. These controls are also compatible with other security standards and frameworks such as NIST, ISO, PCI-DSS, and HIPAA, allowing for seamless integration into your existing security infrastructure.

In conclusion, by implementing the CIS Security Controls, your organization can strengthen its cybersecurity framework, comply with regulations, and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining a reasonable level of security. Take the necessary steps to implement these controls at a basic, foundational, or organizational level, depending on your organization’s resources and needs, and enjoy enhanced protection against evolving cyber threats.