A Practical Guide to Cybersecurity Frameworks for MSP

Navigating the numerous (and growing) cybersecurity frameworks can be daunting. This article helps to simplify the process by identifying some of the most relevant frameworks for MSPs and explaining how they can be implemented to improve security and compliance efforts. I’ll look at the benefits of each framework and provide real-world examples of successful implementation.

Why Cybersecurity Frameworks Matter to MSPs

As MSPs, staying current on the latest cybersecurity frameworks is crucial to ensuring robust security measures for your clients. The landscape of such frameworks is vast and multifaceted, often leaving MSPs confused about which ones are most pertinent to their practice. This article aims to elucidate the most significant frameworks for MSPs, highlighting their benefits and providing practical examples of successful implementation.

Please note, this is not an exhaustive list of cyber frameworks. The complete list of laws, regulations, guidelines, frameworks, and certifications would be too lengthy to mention here. The following frameworks are relevant and commonly used by MSPs and their customers globally. Framework requirements may change depending on the type of industries you work with and the region/country within which your MSP is based.

It is also important to mention the distinction between MSP controls and a client’s controls. MSPs have unique requirements which only deal with the internal security and processes of running a proactive IT managed services business. In contrast, there are specific frameworks and controls relevant to the MSP client. The function of a modern-day MSP is to be operationally competent, secure, and transparent, while simultaneously helping clients achieve their own compliance.

Most Relevant Cybersecurity Frameworks

Unified Certification Standard (UCS) for Cloud and Managed Service Providers

The UCS is specifically designed for cloud and managed service providers. It serves as a foundational framework enabling MSPs to meet the requirements of many other cybersecurity frameworks. Additionally, the UCS allows an organization to build out a scalable, efficient, and secure MSP practice, while simultaneously making progress towards compliance in many globally recognized cyber frameworks.

Highlights:

• Globally accepted and relevant to MSPs anywhere, of any size
• Provides an “MSP dominant” compliance experience
• Rapidly accelerates MSP business and operational maturity
• Streamlines compliance across multiple standards, at the same time
• Reduces audit complexities
• Enhances client trust and confidence

Example:

An MSP adopted the UCS framework to streamline its compliance efforts across various cybersecurity standards, including NIST CSF and ISO/IEC 27001. By leveraging UCS, the MSP simplified its audit processes, reduced redundancies, and enhanced its ability to demonstrate adherence to multiple standards simultaneously. This approach not only improved the MSP’s internal security protocols but also boosted client confidence in their services.

NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF)

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework is one of the most comprehensive and widely adopted frameworks. It provides guidelines for identifying, protecting, detecting, responding to, and recovering from cybersecurity events.

Highlights:

• Relevant predominantly for US organizations (including MSPs) practicing mostly in the Federal and some local governments
• Offers a flexible and scalable approach to cybersecurity
• Enhances risk management protocols
• Improves communication among stakeholders

Example:

An MSP implemented the NIST CSF to overhaul the security posture of a mid-sized financial services firm. By applying the framework, the MSP was able to identify vulnerabilities, develop a robust incident response plan, and conduct regular risk assessments. This resulted in improved overall security and compliance with industry standards.

ISO/IEC 27001

The ISO/IEC 27001 is an international standard for information security management systems (ISMS). It provides a systematic approach to managing sensitive company information, ensuring it remains secure.

Highlights:

• Predominantly found outside the US and Canada
• Does not come with a report, hence its limited utility in communicating compliance information to third-parties
• Establishes a risk-based approach to managing information security
• Ensures compliance with global standards
• Improves organizational resilience

Example:

A healthcare focused MSP used ISO/IEC 27001 to achieve compliance with stringent health data protection regulations. By implementing the framework, the MSP was able to secure patient data, streamline security processes, and obtain certification, thus gaining clients’ trust and confidence.

CIS Controls

The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls consists of a prioritized set of actions designed to protect organizations against cyber threats. These controls are categorized into three groups: Implementation Group 1 (IG1), Implementation Group 2 (IG2), and Implementation Group 3 (IG3).

Highlights:

• Predominantly found within the US
• Does not produce a certification
• Provides actionable and easy-to-implement guidelines
• Enhances threat detection and prevention capabilities
• Facilitates compliance with various regulatory requirements

Example:

An MSP specializing in retail used CIS Controls to improve the security of their client’s point-of-sale systems. By implementing the controls, they were able to reduce the risk of data breaches, ensure compliance with PCI DSS, and enhance their overall security posture.

UK Cyber Essentials

The UK Cyber Essentials scheme provides a basic but effective framework for protecting organizations against common cyber threats. It is a certification program aimed at helping organizations of all sizes demonstrate their commitment to cybersecurity.

Highlights:

• Relevant to organizations operating within the United Kingdom
• Provides a certification that demonstrates basic cybersecurity readiness
• Helps protect against the most common cyber threats
• Enhances organizational credibility and trust
• Facilitates compliance with various regulatory and contractual requirements

Example:

A small law firm in London used the Cyber Essentials scheme to bolster their cybersecurity measures. By achieving certification, they were able to protect client data more effectively, meet regulatory requirements, and attract new clients by demonstrating their commitment to cybersecurity.

Essential Eight (Australia)

Australia’s Essential Eight framework provides organizations with fundamental strategies to mitigate cyber security incidents. It offers a series of prioritized actions designed to improve security posture.

Highlights:

• Relevant to organizations operating within Australia
• Offers practical steps to reduce the risk of cyber attacks
• Enhances organizational resilience and security
• Supports compliance with local security standards
• Helps mitigate the effects of cyber threats

Example:

A healthcare provider in Melbourne adopted the Essential Eight framework to enhance their cybersecurity defenses. By implementing the strategies, they improved the protection of sensitive patient information, reduced the risk of cyber attacks, and built greater trust with their patients and stakeholders.

GDPR Compliance Framework

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) framework is essential for MSPs operating within the European Union or handling EU citizens’ data. It sets forth guidelines for data protection and privacy.

Highlights:

• Relevant to organizations operating within the European Union
• Ensures compliance with data protection guidelines
• Helps protect personal data and privacy
• Enhances trust and credibility among clients
• Originally created to deal with large cloud providers
• Not a certification

Example:

An MSP providing services to a multinational corporation used the GDPR framework to audit data handling processes and implement stringent data protection measures. This ensured compliance with EU regulations, reduced the risk of hefty fines, and increased client satisfaction.

Implementation Best Practices

Implementing these frameworks requires a structured approach to ensure effective integration and maximum benefits. Here are some best practices for MSPs:

• Assess your current security posture: Conduct a thorough assessment to understand existing vulnerabilities and areas of improvement.
• Select the relevant and appropriate frameworks: Choose frameworks that align with your clients’ industry requirements and regulatory obligations.
• Engage stakeholders: Involve key stakeholders in the implementation process to ensure alignment and support.
• Develop a roadmap: Create a detailed roadmap outlining the steps for implementation, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Conduct regular training: Provide ongoing training to staff to stay updated with the latest security practices and framework requirements.
• Monitor and review: Continuously monitor the effectiveness of implemented frameworks and make necessary adjustments.

Conclusion

Selecting and implementing the right cybersecurity frameworks is crucial for MSPs to enhance security and compliance efforts. MSPs often leverage frameworks like the Unified Certification Standard (UCS), which provides a comprehensive foundation for meeting various cybersecurity requirements. UCS helps MSPs streamline their compliance process by unifying controls from multiple frameworks, making it easier to adhere to standards such as NIST CSF, ISO/IEC 27001, CIS Controls, and GDPR.
By understanding the benefits and best practices associated with frameworks such as UCS, MSPs can build robust security systems that protect their clients’ data, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster trust. Practical examples of successful implementation further illustrate the transformative impact these frameworks can have on an MSP’s practice. With a strategic approach, MSPs can navigate the framework soup effectively and bolster their cybersecurity posture.

Charles Weaver is CEO and co-founder of the MSPAlliance