[Crawl-Date: 2026-04-23]
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[URL: https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/nist]
---
title: What Is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
description: A voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology that provides a structured approach to managing cybersecurity risk. ...
url: https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/nist
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og_title: What Is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
og_description: A voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology that provides a structured approach to managing cybersecurity risk. ...
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# What Is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
> A voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology that provides a structured approach to managing cybersecurity risk. ...

---

Security

Intermediate
## What Is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework?
What Is the NIST Cybersecurity Framework? NIST Cybersecurity Framework a voluntary framework developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology that provides a structured approach to managing cybersecurity risk. The framework organizes security activities into five functions: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover.

## Why This Matters for Your Business
NIST CSF has become the de facto standard for cybersecurity programs in North America — even though it's voluntary. Following NIST demonstrates due diligence, provides a common language for discussing security with vendors and insurers, and gives your organization a clear roadmap for improving cybersecurity maturity.

## Related Security Terms

[Beginner
## 2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)
A security process that requires users to provide two different authentication factors to verify their identity. This typically combines something you know (password) with something you have (phone) or something you are (fingerprint).](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/2fa) [Intermediate
## DLP (Data Loss Prevention)
A strategy and set of tools to prevent sensitive data from being lost, misused, or accessed by unauthorized users. DLP software detects potential data breaches and prevents them by monitoring, detecting, and blocking sensitive data.](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/dlp) [Intermediate
## EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response)
A cybersecurity solution that continuously monitors and responds to potential threats on endpoints like computers and servers. EDR tools detect, investigate, and respond to suspicious activities in real-time.](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/edr) [Intermediate
## Encryption
The process of converting data into a coded format that can only be read by someone with the correct decryption key. Encryption protects sensitive information from unauthorized access.](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/encryption)

[NGFW (Next-Generation Firewall)Previous](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/ngfw) [All Terms](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary) [Operational Level Agreement (OLA)Next](https://griffinitgroup.com/it-glossary/ola)

## Need Help With Security?

Our team can help you understand and implement the right technology solutions for your business. Get expert guidance from local IT professionals.

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