CIS Controls vs. NIST CSF: Which Framework Is Right for Your Organization?

Last updated: January 23th, 2025

Managed Service Providers (MSPs) face a growing number of challenges in securing their clients' networks, data, and systems. To navigate this complexity, many MSPs turn to cybersecurity frameworks to guide their security strategies and ensure compliance with industry standards. Two of the most widely used frameworks in the industry are the Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls and the National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF).

Both of these frameworks offer valuable guidance, but they approach cybersecurity from different perspectives. Understanding the distinctions between them can help MSPs decide which framework is best suited for their needs and the needs of their clients.

Table of contents

CIS Controls

NIST CSF

Which Framework is Right for Your MSP?

Quick Wins or Long-Term Strategy

CIS Controls: A Tactical Approach to Cybersecurity

The CIS Controls are a set of 18 prioritized actions designed to protect against the most common and severe cyber threats. Developed by a global community of cybersecurity experts, the CIS Controls are widely regarded as a practical, actionable set of guidelines for improving cybersecurity hygiene. For more detailed guidance, refer to the CIS Controls v8 Guide for Service Providers.

The CIS Controls are grouped into three categories:

1. Basic controls: Focus on essential security measures like inventory management, secure configurations, and controlled use of administrative privileges
2. Foundational controls: Provide guidelines on detecting and responding to cybersecurity incidents, such as continuous monitoring and malware defenses
3. Organizational controls: Emphasize the importance of governance, training, and planning for ongoing security management

For MSPs, the CIS Controls offer a prescriptive, tactical approach to building a robust cybersecurity posture. By implementing these controls, MSPs can ensure they cover fundamental security risks and vulnerabilities, building a solid foundation for their cybersecurity practices.

The CIS Controls are particularly effective for organizations looking to rapidly improve their security posture, especially for those just beginning their cybersecurity journey. With a focus on critical security priorities, the CIS Controls provide a clear, actionable roadmap for securing environments against common attack vectors.

NIST CSF: A Strategic, Flexible Cybersecurity Framework

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology, is a broader, more strategic framework for managing cybersecurity risk. It divides cybersecurity efforts into five key functions:

1. Identify: Understand and manage cybersecurity risks to systems, assets, and data
2. Protect: Implement safeguards to prevent cybersecurity incidents
3. Detect: Identify cybersecurity events in a timely manner
4. Respond: Take action to mitigate the impact of detected cybersecurity incidents
5. Recover: Restore systems and services affected by cybersecurity events
6. Govern: Ensures the cybersecurity strategy aligns with business goals, defines policies and roles, and maintains oversight for accountability and compliance

For more detailed guidance, explore the NIST CSF 2.0 Guide for Service Providers.

In NIST CSF Version 2.0, the new "Govern" function emphasizes the importance of governance in managing cybersecurity efforts across an organization. It helps MSPs implement strong governance, assess risk, and manage resources effectively, ensuring that security measures are properly integrated and aligned with business goals.

NIST CSF is widely used not only in the United States but internationally as well. It's a flexible framework that can be adapted to various industries, including federal contractors, state governments, and private enterprises. Because it’s in the public domain, organizations can freely use the NIST CSF content, which encourages widespread adoption and customization.

While NIST CSF is more strategic and flexible than the CIS Controls, it’s also more comprehensive and can be challenging to implement without a deep understanding of risk management and cybersecurity architecture. NIST CSF is ideal for MSPs that are looking for a holistic approach to cybersecurity, one that not only focuses on technical safeguards but also on organizational processes, risk management, and recovery strategies.

Which Framework is Right for Your MSP?

The decision between CIS Controls and NIST CSF depends on your MSP’s goals, the maturity of your cybersecurity program, and your client needs.

• • You need a tactical, actionable guide for securing your clients’ environments quickly
  • Your clients are looking for quick wins and improvements in their cybersecurity hygiene
  • You want a prioritized set of controls that help address the most critical cybersecurity risks first
  • You are new to building a cybersecurity program or need to improve existing security measures fast

The CIS Controls are ideal for MSPs that need a structured, actionable roadmap to implement effective security practices. They are easy to understand and implement, which can be particularly beneficial when working with smaller organizations that may not have a dedicated cybersecurity team.

• • You need a comprehensive, strategic framework that includes risk management, governance, and recovery
  • Your clients require a more holistic view of cybersecurity that includes technical, organizational, and governance considerations
  • You are looking for a scalable framework that can be adapted to various industries and organizational sizes
  • You want to address long-term cybersecurity goals and integrate security deeply into your clients’ business processes

NIST CSF is ideal for MSPs working with larger clients or those in regulated industries who need a more strategic approach to cybersecurity. It provides flexibility, allowing MSPs to customize it to meet specific needs and integrate it with other standards and regulations.

Quick Wins or Long-Term Strategy: Choosing the Right Framework

Both the CIS Controls and NIST CSF are valuable frameworks for MSPs looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture and protect their clients. The CIS Controls offer a more tactical, easy-to-implement approach that is great for rapidly improving security, while NIST CSF provides a broader, more strategic view that is ideal for long-term cybersecurity planning and governance.

Ultimately, the right choice for your MSP will depend on your goals, the complexity of your clients’ environments, and your desire to either focus on immediate, tactical security improvements or take a more comprehensive, governance-driven approach to cybersecurity. Many MSPs find success by using both frameworks in tandem: leveraging the CIS Controls for foundational security measures and implementing NIST CSF for a strategic, risk-based approach to managing cybersecurity across their client base.