Flexible Protection for Your Company: External CISO Ensures NIS2-Compliant Security

Companies that fall under the NIS2 Directive face the challenge of developing and implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. However, not all organizations have the resources or need to create a full-time position for a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This is where the external CISO comes in – a tailored, flexible solution that meets your security needs without having to employ an internal CISO.

What You Need: An External CISO for Specialized Cybersecurity Solutions

Companies operating in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, healthcare, transportation, or digital infrastructure must adhere to strict security regulations. An external CISO provides the opportunity to meet all the requirements of the NIS2 Directive without the effort and cost of an internal CISO position.

But how exactly is this achieved?

How to Implement and Leverage the Central Role of the External CISO

The external CISO takes on a variety of tasks tailored to your company. They offer a complete solution to protect your IT infrastructure and meet all regulatory requirements – in a flexible and cost-efficient way.

1. Development of a Cybersecurity Strategy: Tailored and NIS2-Compliant

An external CISO begins by analyzing your existing IT and security infrastructure and, based on this, develops a cybersecurity strategy tailored to your company. This strategy covers the prevention, detection, and response to cyber threats and ensures that your company is always prepared for cyber incidents.

• Solution: The external CISO creates policies and procedures specifically tailored to your company's needs and the NIS2 Directive. This customized strategy ensures that you have no security gaps and always remain compliant with legal requirements.

2. Risk Management and Threat Analysis: Proactive Action

A key part of the external CISO’s role is regular risk analysis. This identifies vulnerabilities in your IT infrastructure and develops measures to address them. It’s not just about detecting risks, but also about proactively defending against threats.

• Solution: The external CISO conducts regular threat analyses and develops clear, actionable measures to mitigate risks. These analyses provide you with a complete overview of potential dangers and concrete solutions to continuously improve your security standards.

3. Compliance and Auditing: Always NIS2-Compliant

The NIS2 Directive requires strict adherence to security standards. The external CISO ensures that your compliance is maintained at all times. They implement security measures and prepare your company for audits by regulatory authorities, ensuring that all requirements are met.

• Solution: Through regular monitoring of processes and systems, the external CISO ensures that all measures are NIS2-compliant. This proactive preparation for audits minimizes legal risks and builds trust with regulatory authorities.

4. Incident Management: Quick Response and Effective Action

In the event of a security incident, the external CISO coordinates the incident response. This includes quickly responding to threats, containing attacks, and restoring affected systems. Additionally, the CISO regularly tests the incident response plans to ensure the company can react quickly in an emergency.

• Solution: The external CISO develops a comprehensive incident response plan and conducts regular tests. In the event of an attack, they act immediately, and systems are quickly restored to prevent further damage.

5. Training and Awareness: Cybersecurity Begins with Employees

Another important aspect of the external CISO’s work is the training and awareness of employees. Security awareness at all levels of the company is crucial for minimizing cyber risks.

• Solution: The external CISO conducts tailored training sessions that are aligned with the specific requirements of the NIS2 Directive and your company's needs. These trainings ensure that all employees are informed about the latest security risks and know how to identify and respond to potential threats.

6. Technological Security Measures: Implementation of Cutting-Edge Technologies

In addition to strategic planning and training, the external CISO plays a key role in the implementation of technical security solutions. They ensure that firewalls, intrusion detection systems, encryption, and network security protocols are set up according to NIS2 requirements.

• Solution: The external CISO works closely with your internal IT team to ensure that all technical solutions are optimally utilized. They oversee the implementation and regular updating of the necessary security technologies.

Strategic Consultation: The External CISO as a Sparring Partner for Management

The external CISO is not only an operational player but also a strategic advisor to management. They help make informed decisions about security technology investments and communicate risks at a strategic level.

• Solution: The external CISO regularly provides management with reports and decision-making aids. This gives you a clear overview of potential risks and necessary investments in cybersecurity at all times.

Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: Protection Evolves

The external CISO’s work doesn’t end with the implementation of measures. Through continuous monitoring and regular evaluation of security measures, they ensure that your company stays up to date and can quickly respond to new threats.

• Solution: The external CISO proactively monitors your IT systems and continuously adjusts the security strategy. This ensures that you are always optimally protected and meet all new requirements of the NIS2 Directive.

Conclusion: Flexibility and Scalability for Your Company

The external CISO offers the perfect solution if your company needs to meet the requirements of the NIS2 Directive but cannot or does not want to hire an internal CISO. By combining flexible, tailored cybersecurity solutions with a high level of expertise, the external CISO ensures that your company is always protected – without the costs of a full-time position.

If you want to ensure that your cybersecurity strategy is NIS2-compliant and protects your company against growing threats, the external CISO is the ideal choice. Take advantage of this flexible and scalable solution to secure your IT infrastructure at the highest level.