What the NIS 2 Directive means for businesses
The NIS 2 Directive represents a significant step in the evolution of cyber security requirements in the European Union. It replaces the 2016 NIS Directive and aims to ensure a high common level of security of network and information systems. The new regulations have already been in force at EU level since 2023 and are just waiting to be transposed into national law.
The directive affects a much larger number of companies and sectors than its predecessor, which presents a challenge but also an opportunity for companies that need to adapt their cyber security strategies to meet the new requirements. Companies operating in critical infrastructures, such as energy, transport or healthcare, are particularly affected. But other sectors, including postal and courier services and digital infrastructure providers, must also adapt to the new regulations. The directive stipulates that companies must implement strict cybersecurity measures to protect their networks and information systems.
What are the new cybersecurity requirements?
The NIS 2 Directive introduces a number of new cybersecurity requirements for companies. It requires comprehensive control and monitoring of IT systems to prevent incidents and ensure business continuity. This also includes the introduction of mechanisms for monitoring and reporting cyber security incidents.
A key aspect is risk management in the IT sector. Companies must develop measures to identify and manage potential risks. The obligation to report cyber incidents also plays a central role in this. These reports must be submitted to both national authorities and affected customers in order to promote transparency and trust.
Risk management as a central challenge
Risk management is a central element of the NIS 2 Directive. Companies must ensure that they have suitable processes and systems in place to identify, assess and manage potential risks. These requirements pose major hurdles for many companies, especially those that were not previously considered critical infrastructure.
Risk management requires the implementation of IT governance that enables regulatory requirements to be monitored and documented. This also includes adapting to changing legal requirements and carrying out regular risk analyses.
How cyber security affects the supply chain
Securing the supply chain plays a central role in the NIS2 directive. Companies are responsible for ensuring that their partners and service providers implement sufficient measures to protect their information systems. This is often set out in contractual provisions, with various certifications serving as proof of compliance with security standards.
As attackers are increasingly using the supply chain as a gateway for cyberattacks, the EU NIS2 Directive requires affected organizations to conduct a thorough review of their direct suppliers and service providers. This audit includes the identification of potential security vulnerabilities as well as a comprehensive assessment of product quality and IT security practices, including security in development processes.
How ISO 27001:2022 certification builds trust
Companies that now need to reposition their IT landscape - whether in the digital workplace, ERP, AI systems or logistics and supply chain - can look for existing IT security certifications when selecting the partners and service providers they need. The ISO 27001:2022 standard is particularly suitable for this. This certification ensures that a provider already has an information security management system (ISMS) that covers many of the security measures and controls required by NIS 2.
Certified providers and service providers already have established and audited processes for risk management and information security monitoring. This makes it easier for contracting companies to comply with the new regulations and significantly reduces the effort required for additional adjustments. When fulfilling the new NIS 2 requirements, preference should therefore be given to partners who are already ISO-certified in order to rule out potential security risks from the outset.
As the provider of myleo / dsc, leoquantum GmbH is already ISO-27001:2022 certified. Discover the benefits for the security of your company's IT!
Opportunities and strategies for implementing the NIS 2 directive
The implementation of the NIS 2 Directive offers companies the opportunity to rethink and strengthen their cyber security strategies. Companies should take the opportunity to review existing systems and processes and ensure that they meet the new requirements.
A proactive approach to implementing the NIS 2 directive can not only help companies avoid legal penalties, but also increase their competitiveness. Implementing comprehensive IT governance and training employees on security issues are crucial steps to meet the requirements of the directive and increase the company's cyber resilience.
Overall, the NIS 2 directive offers an opportunity for companies to raise their security standards and better protect themselves against cyber threats. By using best practices and working with experienced and already certified IT service providers, companies can successfully overcome the challenges of the new directive and benefit from improved security measures in the long term.
