The CIS or Center for Internet Security frequently revises and updates their list of top 20 security controls each business and organization should implement in order to ensure online security. Fully understanding these 20 security controls is the first step towards ensuring ultimate online security for your company. To help you take advantage of these simple regulations, we’re going to highlight the benefits of implementing these specific security strategies.

For starters, the most recent top 20 CIS security controls include the following:

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

The Benefits of Implementing the CIS 20 Security Controls

While most people think that online security is a complex concept that requires years of experience, the truth is far different. Thanks to frameworks such as the CIS 20 security controls, anyone can secure their company or organization by putting some effort into implementing the listed security measures. These 20 CIS controls can be described as a transparent list or a comprehensive guide to achieving optimal security online.

As such, these regulations come with a variety of benefits. For starters, following this guide will help you do more than just secure your business. You will be able to spot vulnerabilities in your system before hackers do and, thus, you will prevent many cyberattacks before they even take place. Preventing cyberattacks will leave a massive impact on your business, as you will protect sensitive data, avoid financial damage and maintain your company’s reputation.

Another great benefit of these security regulations is the fact that they are highly effective to the point where they can benefit all business, no matter their size or nature. In fact, these security measures are so effective that only the top five on the list are enough to prevent the majority of cyberattacks that take part in the online world today. With such an impressive rate of effectiveness, the total of 20 security controls will make your company’s data and system practically impossible to hack or compromise.

Furthermore, complying with these regulations will help you ensure GDPR compliance required by the latest European Union laws, as well as protect your system from security threats such as spam, malware, infected links, and phishing scams. One of the security measures that will do most for your business is the control number 17, which states that each business should implement awareness and training programs. Hosting a security meeting every once in a while will keep your employees aware of potential security issues, as well as familiar with proper measures and solutions.

Conclusion

The CIS 20 Security Controls are not mandatory or required by law. However, since such a comprehensive guide to online security already exists, we don’t see a reason why any business should neglect it. If you want to ensure optimal security for your company, take your time and follow the 20 CIS regulations to build a strong online security system. If you need professional help along the way, contact The Network Pro for assistance.