CSF (Cybersecurity Framework) is a model developed by the U.S. NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) to help organizations manage cybersecurity risks. The framework is globally recognized and applicable across industries. CSF provides a structured approach for assessing, improving, and communicating cybersecurity practices — within organizations and across their supply chains.
The five CSF functions
At the core of the Cybersecurity Framework are five functions that define the lifecycle of cybersecurity:
- Identify – Map assets, systems, data, and dependencies — including third-party risks.
- Protect – Implement safeguards to secure systems and data against threats.
- Detect – Identify anomalies and potential incidents quickly and accurately.
- Respond – Take effective action to limit damage from cybersecurity events.
- Recover – Restore capabilities after incidents and integrate lessons learned.
These functions are modular, scalable, and align well with other standards like ISO 27001, NIS2, and GDPR frameworks.
Why is CSF important?
Originally developed for critical infrastructure, the CSF has become a universal framework for cybersecurity management. Key benefits include:
- Universal applicability: suitable for any size or maturity level;
- Risk-based approach: focused on impact and priorities, not checklists;
- Clear communication: bridges technical and non-technical teams.
In a supply chain context, CSF enables organizations to assess and align third parties using a common language.
CSF and RiskStudio
RiskStudio uses the NIST Cybersecurity Framework as a foundation for analyzing third-party risks. Suppliers are evaluated based on how they align with CSF functions — such as their ability to detect or recover from incidents. You can map risks to critical assets, departments, or regulatory requirements, all within the CSF structure. With RiskStudio, CSF becomes more than a model — it becomes an actionable, chain-aware strategy.
