3 Key Differences Between NIST and ISO

As the world continues to become more digitized, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Every business, regardless of size or industry, is vulnerable to cyber threats, and a single breach can cause irreparable damage. That's why it's crucial for businesses to follow cybersecurity standards such as NIST and ISO to protect themselves and their customers' information.

In this article, we will explore three key differences between NIST and ISO and why they are important for businesses in North America.

What Does NIST Do?

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a federal agency that was created in 1901. NIST is responsible for developing and promoting measurement, standards, and technology to enhance productivity, facilitate trade, and improve the quality of life. One of the primary roles of NIST is to create and maintain cybersecurity guidelines that businesses can follow to protect their information.

What Does ISO Do?

ISO stands for the International Organization for Standardization. It is an independent, non-governmental international organization that develops and publishes standards for various industries and sectors. The ISO has developed a series of standards related to information security, including ISO 27001 and ISO 27002, which provide a framework for businesses to establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve their information security management systems.

While both NIST and ISO provide cybersecurity guidelines, there are three key differences between the two that businesses in North America should be aware of, which are the following:

1.Guidelines

One of the main differences is the scope of the guidelines. NIST guidelines are primarily focused on US federal agencies and organizations that work with the government, while ISO guidelines are more internationally recognized and can be applied to businesses of all sizes and industries.

Another difference between NIST and ISO is the level of detail provided in the guidelines. NIST guidelines are often more detailed and specific, providing step-by-step instructions for implementing cybersecurity measures. This can be helpful for businesses that are just starting to establish their cybersecurity protocols or have limited resources. ISO guidelines, on the other hand, are more high-level and provide a framework for businesses to develop their own cybersecurity policies and procedures.

2. Risk management

One area where NIST and ISO differ significantly is in their approach to risk management. NIST guidelines are focused on a risk-based approach to cybersecurity, meaning that businesses must identify and assess their risks before implementing any security measures. ISO guidelines, on the other hand, take a more process-oriented approach, which involves developing policies and procedures to manage information security risks.

3. Certification process

It's also worth noting that NIST and ISO have different certification processes. NIST does not provide certification for compliance with its guidelines, while ISO provides a certification process for businesses that follow its information security management system (ISMS) framework. This certification can provide businesses with a competitive advantage as it demonstrates their commitment to information security best practices.

Which cybersecurity standard should businesses in North America follow?

The answer depends on the specific needs and goals of the business. If a business primarily operates within the United States and works with the federal government, NIST guidelines may be the best fit. However, if a business operates internationally or wants to establish a more comprehensive information security management system, ISO guidelines may be more appropriate.

Regardless of which standard a business chooses, it's important to remember that cybersecurity is an ongoing process that requires regular updates and maintenance. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and businesses must remain vigilant and adapt to new threats as they emerge.

Cybersecurity is a critical component of any business's operations, and following established cybersecurity standards such as NIST and ISO can help businesses protect their information and their customers' information. While NIST and ISO have some key differences, both provide valuable guidance for businesses in North America. By carefully considering their needs and goals, businesses can select the cybersecurity standard that is best suited to their unique situation and stay ahead of cyber threats.

In addition to selecting the appropriate cybersecurity standard, businesses in North America can take several steps to improve their overall cybersecurity posture. One effective approach is to implement a comprehensive cybersecurity program that includes ongoing training for employees, regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, and incident response planning. These measures can help businesses identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cyber attackers.

Another important aspect of cybersecurity is compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Businesses in North America must comply with a range of laws and regulations related to data privacy, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), or the Canadian Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). Failure to comply with these laws and regulations can result in severe penalties and reputational damage.

Final thoughts

Businesses in North America should consider partnering with a cybersecurity company that can provide expertise and support in implementing and maintaining effective cybersecurity measures. Uzado, for example, can offer a range of services to help businesses simplify IT, centralize cybersecurity management, and meet compliance standards. These services may include cybersecurity consulting, risk assessments, security training, and incident response planning.

Finally, cybersecurity is an essential component of any business's operations, and businesses in North America must take proactive steps to protect their information and their customers' information from cyber threats. By following established cybersecurity standards such as NIST and ISO, implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity program, complying with relevant laws and regulations, and partnering with a cybersecurity company, businesses can reduce their risk of a cyber attack and minimize the impact of any breaches that do occur. With cyber threats on the rise, now is the time for businesses to prioritize cybersecurity and take action to safeguard their operations and reputation.