FAQ About Understanding the Basics of Cybersecurity

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a non-regulatory agency of the United States Department of Commerce that promotes innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology.

NIST is responsible for developing and maintaining a wide range of standards, guidelines, and best practices in areas such as cybersecurity, information technology, manufacturing, and engineering. NIST cybersecurity standards are widely used by government agencies and private sector organizations to manage information security risks and establish effective cybersecurity programs.

NIST is also responsible for developing and maintaining the National Vulnerability Database (NVD), which is a comprehensive database of vulnerabilities in software and hardware products. The NVD is used by organizations to identify and prioritize vulnerabilities that may pose a risk to their systems and networks.

NIST plays a critical role in promoting cybersecurity and improving the overall security posture of the United States. Its guidelines and standards are widely recognized and adopted, both domestically and internationally, and are an important component of many cybersecurity programs and frameworks.