NIST Cybersecurity Framework

Overview
Recognizing that the national and economic security of the United States depends on the reliable functioning of critical infrastructure, the President under Executive Order 13636: "Improving Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity" has directed the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to work with stakeholders to develop a voluntary framework for reducing cyber risks to critical infrastructure.

This Cybersecurity Framework will consist of standards, guidelines, and best practices to promote the protection of information and information systems supporting critical infrastructure[[ operations. The [[prioritized, flexible, repeatable, and cost-effective approach of the framework will help owners and operators of critical infrastructure to manage cybersecurity-related risk while protecting business confidentiality, individual privacy and civil liberties.

== Background - NIST responsibilities

NIST plans to develop the Framework in a manner that is consistent with its mission to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness. The Framework will be developed by ongoing engagement with, and input from, stakeholders in government, industry, and academia, including an open public review and comment process, workshops and other means of engagement.

To develop the Framework, NIST will use a Request for Information (RFI) and ongoing stakeholder engagement to: (i) identify existing cybersecurity standards, guidelines, frameworks, and best practices that are applicable to increase the security of critical infrastructure sectors and other interested entities; (ii) specify high-priority gaps for which new or revised standards are needed; and (iii) collaboratively develop action plans by which these gaps can be addressed.

The Framework will seek to promote the wide adoption of practices to increase cybersecurity across all sectors and industry types. It will seek to provide owners and operators a flexible, repeatable and cost effective risk-based approach to implementing security practices while allowing organizations to express requirements to multiple authorities and regulators.