In the online world, where every wrong click can lead to disaster, it's critical that broadband service providers have robust cybersecurity in place.  In addition to the benefit of mitigating the
substantial negative impact a cyber attack can have on a provider's business, it is required if you are going to receive federal funding from the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment
(BEAD) program. 

According to the BEAD Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO),  providers who receive money from BEAD must have a plan in place that reflects the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) cybersecurity Framework. NIST  has developed a comprehensive set of guidelines and requirements that can look pretty daunting.  However, the significance of the NIST requirements and their hand-in-hand relationship to BEAD funding stresses the importance the government is placing on countering cyberattacks with robust cybersecurity plans. It's also important to note that it is worthwhile to follow the NIST Framework even if you will not be seeking out BEAD funding.  A successful cyberattack on your network can result in significant downtime, stolen data, lost revenue, and loss of customer trust.

Understanding NIST Requirements 

NIST is the prominent authority when it comes to cybersecurity best practices. Their guidelines provide a structured approach to managing and mitigating cyber risks. Implementing NIST requirements offers several advantages. First, it provides a comprehensive roadmap for operators to assess and improve their cybersecurity posture. Following NIST guidelines allows you to identify potential network vulnerabilities and implement effective safeguards, reducing the risk of cyber incidents. Adhering to NIST requirements also demonstrates a commitment to cybersecurity best practices, which can enhance subscriber trust and confidence in the your ability to protect their sensitive information. Here’s a summation of what the NIST Framework requires for an adequate cybersecurity plan.

The Significance of BEAD Funding

Governing bodies and organizations have recognized the critical role of cybersecurity in the advancement and governance of its broadband initiatives. Therefore, the BEAD funding initiative aims to support organizations that prioritize cybersecurity by providing financial resources to strengthen their security infrastructure and capabilities. BEAD funding offers a unique opportunity for broadband operators to invest in their cybersecurity initiatives and promote sustainable growth.

Obtaining BEAD funding requires broadband operators to demonstrate a robust cybersecurity plan aligned with a recognized framework and standards. By aligning their cybersecurity strategy with NIST requirements, operators can ensure they meet the necessary criteria for BEAD funding consideration. This alignment not only strengthens an operator’s cybersecurity practices but also positions them favorably to secure financial support for their initiatives, enabling them to further enhance their overall security posture.

Preparing Your Cybersecurity Plan for NIST Requirements and BEAD Funding

To ensure your organization's cybersecurity plan is ready for NIST requirements and BEAD funding, consider the following steps:

1. Assess Your Current Cybersecurity Posture: Evaluate your existing cybersecurity measures to identify any gaps or vulnerabilities. Have a comprehensive risk assessment performed to determine potential threats and their impact on your organization.

2. Adopt NIST Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with NIST's frameworks, such as the NIST CSF or relevant Special Publications, and implement the recommended controls and procedures. NIST provides detailed documentation and tools that can help guide your cybersecurity efforts.

3. Establish a Robust Cybersecurity Program: Develop a comprehensive cybersecurity program that addresses risk management, incident response, access controls, employee training, and regular security audits. Ensure your program aligns with the specific requirements outlined in NIST guidelines.

4. Document Your Plan: Create a detailed cybersecurity plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and specific measures for implementing NIST guidelines. This documentation will not only guide your internal efforts but also serve as crucial evidence when applying for BEAD funding.

5. Seek Expert Assistance: Adhering to the NIST guidelines can be difficult, lengthy and tedious and could require requires a lot of time you and your current staff probably do not have. Consider engaging cybersecurity professionals or consultants with expertise in NIST requirements and BEAD funding to assist with plan development, and ensure you meet the necessary criteria.

We can provide that expert assistance. We'll help you meet the NIST Framework so that you can apply for BEAD funding, and we can provide the ongoing monitoring and threat detection that will take your security posture to the next level.  You will save you time and trouble as we help navigate this complicated environment with you, for much less then it would cost you to set up and maintain your own security operations center.  You can read more about our Managed Cybersecurity Services, or you can contact us today to learn more about how we can get you prepared for your BEAD submission.

By aligning your cybersecurity plan with NIST requirements and exploring opportunities provided by BEAD funding, you can establish a powerful cybersecurity posture that ensures secure connectivity for your operation and the communities you serve. Prioritizing cybersecurity not only protects your data and infrastructure but also builds trust with stakeholders and enables a stable and future-proof digital system. 

Additional Resources: 

WATCH: Implementing the Core Components of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework for BEAD Funding Requirements