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The course comes with downloadable Microsoft Office-based documentation templates that you can edit for your specific needs.

The ISP documentation contains NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF) based cybersecurity policies, procedures, and standards in an editable Microsoft Word format:

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The course comes with downloadable Microsoft Office-based documentation templates that you can edit for your specific needs.

The ISP documentation contains NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF) based cybersecurity policies, procedures, and standards in an editable Microsoft Word format:

  • The NIST CSF based ISP covers version 1.1 of the NIST Cyber Security Framework

  • Each of the NIST controls are mapped to a standard within the ISP and each of those standards are mapped to a policy statement.

  • The ISP covers the "what" and the "why" during an audit as policies and standards for the foundation for every information security program.

The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)-based Information Security Program (ISP) is a set of cybersecurity policies and standards that is tailored for organizations that need to align with leading cybersecurity practices.

This version of the Information Security Program (ISP) is based on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) framework. It contains cybersecurity policies and standards that align with NIST CSF. You get fully-editable Microsoft Word and Excel documents that you can customize for your specific needs.

What Problems Does The ISP Solve?

  • Compliance Requirements - Nearly every organization, regardless of industry, is required to have formally-documented security policies and standards. The The ISP maps to several leading compliance requirements so you can clearly see what is required.

  • Audit Failures - Security documentation does not age gracefully like a fine wine. Outdated documentation leads to gaps that expose organizations to audit failures and system compromises. The ISP's standards provides mapping to leading security frameworks to show you exactly what is required to both stay secure and compliant.

  • ​Vendor Requirements - It is very common for clients and partners to request evidence of a security program and this includes policies and standards. The ISP provides this evidence.

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Addresses compliance requirements for various industries, simplifying security documentation
Provides editable Microsoft Word and Excel documents for easy customization
Maps to NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF) standards for cybersecurity practices
Could be outdated if the NIST CSF undergoes significant revisions
Assumes learners have a basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts

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Reviews summary

Practical nist csf program templates

According to students, this course offers invaluable, ready-to-use NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NIST CSF) templates, which are highlighted as a game-changer for developing an Information Security Program. Learners found the practical documentation and actionable steps directly applicable to compliance efforts and audit readiness, making it a huge time-saver for professionals. While it provides a clear roadmap for formalizing an ISP, some reviewers noted a desire for deeper exploration of implementation challenges or more foundational content, suggesting it might assume some prior knowledge. Overall, the course is highly recommended for corporate IT, security managers, and consultants focused on compliance.
Aimed at and highly beneficial for professionals in compliance, audit, and IT security roles.
"Highly recommend for professionals. This course is a game-changer for anyone struggling with information security documentation."
"Essential for anyone in corporate IT or risk management. This course demystifies NIST CSF and provides actionable steps."
"I learned how to use practical tools and strategies that I could apply immediately to my work."
"It targets an audience that needs practical documentation for compliance."
Provides highly practical, editable documentation templates that save significant time.
"The NIST CSF templates are invaluable and saved me countless hours. I applied these directly to our compliance efforts and saw immediate results."
"Excellent course! The templates are exactly what I needed to kickstart our security program. A must-have for compliance."
"Incredibly practical and directly applicable. The ISP documentation is a goldmine. Worth every penny."
"The templates alone are worth the price of admission. They are incredibly practical and accelerate the documentation process."
May assume some familiarity with security frameworks, with requests for more foundational content.
"The explanations sometimes assume prior knowledge of complex security frameworks. I wished for more foundational content and updated examples."
"I found this course somewhat basic for my advanced needs. It covers the NIST CSF at a high level..."
"The course content is solid, but the presentation could be more engaging."
Could benefit from more in-depth guidance on practical implementation challenges and scenarios.
"I was looking for more depth in implementation strategies and integration with other frameworks."
"My main critique is that while it provides the 'what,' it could delve a bit deeper into the 'how' for implementation challenges..."
"Some sections felt a little rushed, and I would have appreciated more real-world scenarios or case studies."
"I would suggest adding more guidance on maintaining the program post-implementation."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How To Develop An Information Security Program with these activities:
Review NIST Cybersecurity Framework concepts
Brings key CSF concepts to mind so that learning new material in the course will be easier.
Show steps
  • Read NIST Special Publication 800-53 Revision 4
  • Review NIST CSF Tier 1 controls
  • Take a practice quiz on NIST CSF concepts
Review Microsoft Office Suite
Reviewing the basics of the Microsoft Office Suite will help you better navigate the course materials and examples.
Browse courses on Microsoft Office Suite
Show steps
  • Create a new document in each of the following applications: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Practice basic functions in each application, such as formatting text, creating tables, and sending emails.
Foster Collaboration through Peer Study Sessions
Engage in collaborative learning to enhance your understanding and reinforce concepts.
Show steps
  • Find a study partner or group with similar learning goals.
  • Establish a regular schedule for study sessions.
  • Discuss course materials, share insights, and work through problems together.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
NIST Cybersecurity Framework Tutorial
Following a tutorial on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework will help you understand the key concepts and how they apply to the course content.
Show steps
  • Find a reputable tutorial on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
  • Watch or read the tutorial carefully, taking notes on the key concepts.
  • Apply what you've learned to the course materials, identifying how the NIST CSF is used to develop cybersecurity policies and standards.
Compile Information Security Framework (ISF) Resources
Construct a comprehensive reference library to support your understanding of cybersecurity frameworks and policies.
Browse courses on NIST CSF
Show steps
  • Gather NIST CSF materials from official sources.
  • Collect additional cybersecurity policies and standards
  • Organize documents into a structured and accessible format.
Enhance Cybersecurity Skills through Guided Tutorials
Engage with interactive tutorials to reinforce concepts and develop practical skills in cybersecurity.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for guided tutorials.
  • Select tutorials that align with your learning goals.
  • Follow instructions and complete exercises diligently.
  • Review and apply what you learn to real-life scenarios.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework exercises
Provides a way to test knowledge and understanding of NIST CSF concepts.
Show steps
  • Work through a series of NIST CSF-based exercises
  • Identify and map NIST CSF controls to an existing security program
  • Develop a NIST CSF-based security plan
Develop Proficiency through Practice Drills
Test your understanding and improve your skills by engaging in regular practice drills.
Browse courses on Security Assessments
Show steps
  • Identify areas where you need additional practice.
  • Find practice drills or questions that cover those areas.
  • Complete the practice drills and review your progress.
  • Analyze your results and identify areas for improvement.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework video tutorials
Provides clear and concise explanations of NIST CSF concepts, making them easier to understand.
Show steps
  • Watch a series of video tutorials on NIST CSF
  • Take notes on key concepts and principles
  • Complete any accompanying quizzes or exercises
Cybersecurity Policy Gap Analysis
Conducting a cybersecurity policy gap analysis will help you identify areas where your organization's policies do not align with the NIST CSF, allowing you to develop a plan to improve compliance.
Browse courses on Policy Compliance
Show steps
  • Review your organization's existing cybersecurity policies and standards.
  • Map your policies and standards to the NIST CSF.
  • Identify any gaps between your policies and the NIST CSF.
  • Develop a plan to address the gaps and improve compliance with the NIST CSF.
NIST Cybersecurity Framework study group
Provides an opportunity to engage with peers, discuss course concepts, and reinforce learning.
Show steps
  • Join or form a NIST CSF study group with peers
  • Meet regularly to discuss assigned topics
  • Work on practice exercises and projects together
NIST Cybersecurity Framework policy document
Provides an opportunity to apply NIST CSF concepts to a practical scenario and create a valuable deliverable.
Show steps
  • Select an organization or industry to create a NIST CSF policy document for
  • Research and identify relevant NIST CSF controls
  • Draft and write the policy document
  • Review and revise the policy document
NIST Cybersecurity Framework hackathon
Provides an immersive and challenging way to apply NIST CSF concepts to real-world scenarios.
Show steps
  • Register for a NIST CSF hackathon
  • Form a team or work individually
  • Develop a solution to a NIST CSF-related challenge
  • Present your solution to a panel of judges

Career center

Learners who complete How To Develop An Information Security Program will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Information Security Analysts. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective information security policies and standards. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an Information Security Analyst.
Security Architect
Security Architects design, implement, and maintain an organization's security infrastructure. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a key resource for Security Architects. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the NIST CSF, helping you to develop a robust security architecture. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Security Architect.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are responsible for overseeing an organization's information security program. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a critical resource for CISOs. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement an effective information security program. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a CISO.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors assess an organization's information security program and ensure that it is compliant with relevant regulations. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for IT Auditors. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to understand the requirements for an effective information security program. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an IT Auditor.
Compliance Manager
Compliance Managers ensure that an organization complies with relevant laws and regulations. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Compliance Managers. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective compliance programs. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Compliance Manager.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers identify, assess, and mitigate risks to an organization's information security program. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Risk Managers. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective risk management programs. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Risk Manager.
Cybersecurity Consultant
Cybersecurity Consultants provide guidance and support to organizations on information security matters. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Cybersecurity Consultants. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective cybersecurity solutions. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Cybersecurity Consultant.
Information Security Manager
Information Security Managers oversee an organization's information security program. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a key resource for Information Security Managers. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement a robust information security program. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an Information Security Manager.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain an organization's network security infrastructure. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Network Security Engineers. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective network security solutions. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Network Security Engineer.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems and networks. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Systems Administrators. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective systems security solutions. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Systems Administrator.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts monitor and analyze security events to identify and respond to threats. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Security Analysts. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective security monitoring and response solutions. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Security Analyst.
Incident Responder
Incident Responders are responsible for responding to and mitigating security incidents. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Incident Responders. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective incident response plans and procedures. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as an Incident Responder.
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security solutions. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Security Engineers. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement effective security solutions. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Security Engineer.
Software Developer
Software Developers design, develop, and maintain software applications. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Software Developers. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement secure software applications. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Software Developer.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and patterns. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) is a valuable resource for Data Analysts. This course provides a deep dive into the NIST CSF, helping you to develop and implement secure data analysis practices. By taking this course, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as a Data Analyst.

Reading list

We've selected 17 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How To Develop An Information Security Program.
These templates can be used to create or update your own security policies, which are an essential part of any information security program.
These templates can be used to create or update your own security procedures, which are another essential part of any information security program.
These controls provide a set of best practices for information security, and they can be used to supplement or replace the ISP covered in this course.
This regulation provides a set of requirements for protecting the privacy and security of health information, and it can be used to supplement or replace the ISP covered in this course.
This regulation provides a set of requirements for protecting the privacy and security of personal data, and it can be used to supplement or replace the ISP covered in this course.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security engineering concepts and valuable resource for practitioners in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security awareness training, which is an essential part of any information security program.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information security risk assessment, which is an essential part of any information security program.
Provides a comprehensive overview of disaster recovery planning, which is an essential part of any information security program.
Provides a comprehensive overview of incident response planning, which is an essential part of any information security program.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer security concepts and valuable resource for practitioners in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security concepts and valuable resource for practitioners in the field.
This Chinese-language book provides a comprehensive overview of information security risk management concepts and valuable resource for practitioners in the field.

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