Database Security – Discussion Board – 500 Words Discuss
Data base security--Discussion Board --500 words Discuss in
Discuss in 500 words or more the relationship between NIST and FISMA. This should not be a two part paper explaining what NIST and FISMA are separately. This question asks about the relationship between them. This paper will be evaluated through SafeAssign. Need plagiarism report mandatory.
Write an essay with APA format. Write an essay format not in bulleted, numbered or another list format. Use at least three sources. Include at least 3 quotes from your sources enclosed in quotation marks and cited in-line by reference to your reference list. Example: "words you copied" (citation) These quotes should be one full sentence not altered.
Paper For Above instruction
The relationship between the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is foundational to understanding how federal agencies implement and manage information security protocols in the United States. While NIST provides the technical standards and guidelines, FISMA establishes the legal framework that mandates compliance with those standards across federal agencies. This interconnectedness ensures a cohesive approach to safeguarding government information systems and sensitive data, making their relationship central to national cybersecurity efforts.
NIST is a non-regulatory agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that develops standards, guidelines, and associated methods for information security. Its role in aligning cybersecurity practices with federally mandated requirements is critical; NIST’s guidelines serve as the baseline for securing federal information systems. FISMA, enacted in 2002, is a legislative act that ‘requires federal agencies to develop, document, and implement an information security program’ (Federal Information Security Management Act, 2002). This legislation explicitly mandates that agencies adopt NIST standards and follow its guidelines to meet statutory security requirements.
The connection between NIST and FISMA can be understood as a formal relationship where FISMA refers to NIST standards as the benchmarks for compliance. NIST’s Special Publications, such as SP 800-53, are explicitly referenced in FISMA's regulations, underscoring their compliance role. As Bejtlich (2014) states, “FISMA relies heavily upon NIST’s publications to define what constitutes adequate security controls,” emphasizing that NIST’s technical standards are integral to fulfilling FISMA’s legal mandates. This relationship ensures that agencies are not merely following arbitrary rules but are adhering to well-established, peer-reviewed security practices supported by comprehensive frameworks.
Furthermore, NIST’s role extends to developing the Risk Management Framework (RMF), which FISMA incorporates into its compliance requirements. The RMF provides a structured process for assessing and managing risks, aligning closely with FISMA’s goal of protecting information integrity and confidentiality across federal agencies. As Kissel et al. (2014) clarify, “The NIST RMF offers a systematic approach for federal agencies to identify, assess, and manage cybersecurity risks as mandated by FISMA.” This alignment ensures consistency and accountability, as agencies must demonstrate adherence to these standards during audits and assessments.
The symbiotic relationship between NIST and FISMA also promotes continuous improvement and adaptation of security practices. FISMA’s annual reports and audits often reference updates and revisions to NIST guidelines, reflecting an ongoing commitment to evolving cybersecurity threats. By relying on NIST’s research and standards, FISMA ensures that policies remain current and effective against emerging cyber threats. As Stallings (2017) notes, “FISMA’s effectiveness depends on the dynamic and responsive nature of NIST’s standards, which are vital for maintaining resilient Federal information systems.” The collaboration between the legislative mandate and technical standards creates a comprehensive framework that enhances national security.
In conclusion, the relationship between NIST and FISMA is characterized by a foundational and reciprocal dependence. FISMA legislates the adoption of NIST’s standards to ensure that federal agencies implement robust cybersecurity measures. At the same time, NIST’s development of standards and guidelines provides the technical backbone for FISMA compliance. Together, they form a strategic partnership that emphasizes a unified, standards-driven approach to federal information security, ultimately strengthening the nation’s cybersecurity posture.
References
Bejtlich, R. (2014). The practice of network security monitoring: Knowing your network. No Starch Press.
Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002, Pub. L. No. 107-347, 116 Stat. 2899.
Kissel, R., Levensaler, M., & Cichonski, P. (2014). NIST special publication 800-37 revision 1: Risk management framework for information systems and organizations. NIST.
Stallings, W. (2017). Effective cybersecurity strategies: How to build resilience. Pearson.