Why is it important to have fixed guidelines like CIS benchmarks?

Having fixed guidelines like the CIS (Center for Internet Security) benchmarks is crucial because they provide actionable security criteria for organizations. These benchmarks offer a comprehensive framework of best practices and security configurations that organizations can implement to enhance their security posture. By following these established guidelines, organizations can systematically address vulnerabilities and threats, thereby reducing their risk of cyber incidents.

The benchmarks are developed based on extensive research and consensus from various experts in the cybersecurity field, ensuring that the recommendations are robust and relevant. This enables organizations, regardless of their size or industry, to implement security measures that are both effective and aligned with industry standards.

In contrast, while simplifying software development processes and ensuring compliance with legal requirements are important aspects of overall security and governance, they do not specifically capture the essence of what CIS benchmarks provide. Additionally, no set of guidelines can guarantee absolute security, as the dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats requires continuous assessment and adaptation of security measures. Thus, the primary value of CIS benchmarks lies in their ability to provide organizations with concrete, actionable steps to enhance their cybersecurity defenses.