It means evaluating whether selected controls are appropriate, implemented as intended, and effective for the system's risk and operational context.
In a NIST-aligned program, control assessment is not only a checklist exercise. It includes confirming that controls were selected based on risk, that implementation matches requirements, and that the control actually reduces risk in the real environment.
Assessment also depends on evidence: configuration baselines, procedures, logs, test results, and documented exceptions. Strong programs use assessment outcomes to drive remediation and continuous improvement rather than treating them as a one-time audit activity.
Teams often confuse deployment with effectiveness; assessment closes that gap by linking controls to measurable outcomes and operational evidence.
“A control exists only if you can show it works.”
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It requires demonstrable evidence that required practices are implemented and operating, aligned with the assessment methodology and expectations.
In practice, it means building a structured cybersecurity program with clear ownership, risk-based controls, and repeatable processes for prevention, response, and improvement.
Choose Foundation to learn concepts and requirements; choose Lead Implementer if you must plan and run an organization's NIS 2 implementation program.
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