What are Security Standards?
Definition
Industry frameworks for security practices and controls, such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework, CIS Controls, and ISO 27001. Security standards provide structured approaches to implementing security programs, defining control requirements, and measuring security maturity. Organizations use these frameworks to establish security baselines, guide security investments, and demonstrate due diligence. RFPs should ask which standards vendors follow and how they map their security controls to framework requirements.
Why This Matters
Security standards (NIST, CIS Controls, ISO 27001) provide frameworks for implementing comprehensive security programs. Organizations following recognized standards demonstrate due diligence and maintain consistent security maturity. RFPs should ask which standards vendors follow and how they map their controls to framework requirements. Standard alignment indicates security program maturity and enables meaningful comparison.
Related Terms
Showing semantically related terms from our RFP knowledge graph. Priority connections are highlighted.
Essential Connections
Security Compliance
Security & Compliance
Adherence to security standards, certifications, and regulatory requirements to protect data and systems.
ISO 27001
Security & Compliance
International standard for information security management systems specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving security controls.
Security Controls
Security & Compliance
Technical and procedural safeguards implemented to protect data, systems, and infrastructure from unauthorized access, breaches, and threats.
Security Audit
Security & Compliance
Independent examination of security controls, policies, and practices verifying compliance with standards like SOC 2, ISO 27001, or industry regulations.
Compliance Certifications
Security & Compliance
Official attestations proving adherence to security and regulatory standards including SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, PCI DSS, FedRAMP, or industry-specific certifications.
Compliance Standard
Security & Compliance
Established requirements organizations must meet to demonstrate compliance with regulations or industry expectations.
Security Questions
RFP Fundamentals
20-40 RFP questions assessing data encryption, access controls, compliance certifications, incident response, backup procedures, and vulnerability management.
SOC 2
Security & Compliance
Service Organization Control 2 - an auditing standard for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy of customer data in cloud services.
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