Infrastructure Resilience Briefing — February 26, 2024
NIST released Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 with a new Govern function, implementation profiles, and sector playbooks that expand adoption beyond critical infrastructure operators.
Executive briefing: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 on February 26, 2024, delivering the first major update since 2018. The revision introduces an overarching Govern function, refreshed implementation tiers, and sector-specific quick-start guides so public- and private-sector organizations can manage cyber risk with a consistent playbook. CSF 2.0 is now explicitly scoped for all organizations, not just critical infrastructure, and aligns with NIST's AI, privacy, and supply-chain frameworks.
Key updates
- Govern function. CSF 2.0 adds a sixth function that embeds governance outcomes around risk management strategy, policy, and oversight while mapping to existing Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover practices.
- Implementation resources. NIST provides updated profiles, success metrics, and quick-start guides for enterprise risk programs, small businesses, manufacturers, and the cybersecurity supply chain.
- Cross-framework alignment. New guidance links CSF categories to NIST SP 800-53, Privacy Framework, and Secure Software Development Framework requirements to streamline integrated control baselines.
Operational priorities
- Program assessment. Map current controls to the CSF 2.0 core, highlighting gaps introduced by the Govern function—policy oversight, risk appetite documentation, and role accountability.
- Profile refresh. Rebuild target profiles with the updated tier descriptions and quick-start guide references, then sequence remediation initiatives with measurable milestones.
- Supply-chain engagement. Cascade CSF-aligned expectations to suppliers using NIST's community profiles and ensure contract language reflects new governance outcomes.
Program assurance
- Metrics integration. Adopt CSF 2.0 implementation examples and measurement suggestions to demonstrate risk reduction progress to executive and board stakeholders.
- Training. Update cybersecurity awareness content with the Govern function's responsibilities for leadership, risk committees, and system owners.
- Documentation. Version policies, charters, and risk registers to reflect CSF 2.0 terminology so audits can trace governance evidence to the updated framework.
Sources
Zeph Tech is aligning enterprise cyber risk programs to CSF 2.0 by documenting governance accountability, refreshing target profiles, and integrating metrics into quarterly resilience reviews.