Why is the NIS2 Directive key to cybersecurity in SMEs?
In the current context, cybersecurity has become a fundamental pillar for the survival and growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The European Union has reinforced its regulations with the NIS2 Directive, which establishes stricter standards to protect critical infrastructures and digital services.
This practical guide will help you understand what the NIS2 Directive is, its key requirements and how SMEs can apply specific measures to ensure compliance and improve their security posture.
What is the NIS2 Directive and who does it affect?
The NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Systems Directive 2) is an update to European regulations that seeks to strengthen the security of networks and information systems in all strategic sectors.
Affected sectors and companies
- Digital service providers (online marketplaces, search engines, cloud services).
- Critical infrastructures (energy, transport, health, water).
- SMEs with essential activities that may affect public services or the economy if they suffer a cyberincident
Although initially focused on large companies, NIS2 extends its reach to certain SMEs, especially those considered “essential entities” or “important entities” in their sector.
Key requirements of the NIS2 Directive for SMEs
To comply with the NIS2 Directive, SMEs must implement a series of technical and organizational measures to manage risks and respond effectively to incidents.
Recommended Technical Measures
- Risk Management: Identification and continuous evaluation of cyber risks.
- System and network protection: Use of advanced tools such as firewalls, antivirus, intrusion detection systems and constant updates.
- Access control: Implementation of minimum access policies and multifactor authentication (MFA).
- Data encryption: Protection of sensitive information both at rest and in transit.
- Continuous monitoring: Ongoing surveillance to detect suspicious or abnormal activities.
Organizational measures
- Clear and documented security policy, with defined roles and responsibilities.
- Employee training and awareness to prevent attacks based on social engineering.
- Incident response plan that allows for a quick and coordinated reaction to cyberattacks.
- Collaboration with authorities to report incidents on a mandatory basis and within the stipulated time.
Practical steps for an SME to comply with the NIS2 Directive
- Assess the level of risk and classification: Determine if your company is considered an essential or important entity according to NIS2.
- Perform a breach analysis to identify areas where security is below what is required.
- Implement technical policies and controls in accordance with recommendations, prioritizing areas of greatest risk.
- Train your team on good cybersecurity practices and action protocols.
- Establish monitoring and reporting mechanisms to detect incidents and notify authorities.
- Periotically review and update measures to adapt to new threats and regulatory changes.
Benefits of complying with the NIS2 Directive in SMEs
- Reducing the risk of cyberattacks and potential economic losses.
- Improving customer and partner trust by demonstrating commitment to security.
- Legal compliance that avoids penalties and fines.
- Strengthening resilience in the face of technological incidents.
Resources and links to learn more about the NIS2 Directive
Get ready to comply with the NIS2 Directive and protect your SME
Complying with the NIS2 Directive is a fundamental step in strengthening the security of your SME in an increasingly complex digital environment. Implementing appropriate measures not only ensures that you are up to date with the legislation, but it also improves your competitiveness and trust vis-a-vis customers and suppliers.
Do you want personalized advice to adapt your SME to the NIS2 Directive? Contact our expert cybersecurity team at info@apolocybersecurity.com and guarantees the protection of your business against current threats.
%402x.svg){kind=icon}