NIST Special Publication 800-30

NIST Special Publication 800-30 provides guidance for conducting risk assessments of federal information systems and organizations, amplifying the guidance in Special Publication 800-39. Risk assessments, carried out at all three tiers in the risk management hierarchy, are part of an overall risk management process—providing senior leaders/executives with the information needed to determine appropriate courses of action in response to identified risks. In particular, provides guidance for carrying out each of the steps in the risk assessment process (i.e., preparing for the assessment, conducting the assessment, communicating the results of the assessment, and maintaining the assessment) and how risk assessments and other organizational risk management processes complement and inform each other.

Special Publication 800-30 also provides guidance to organizations on identifying specific risk factors to monitor on an ongoing basis, so that organizations can determine whether risks have increased to unacceptable levels (i.e., exceeding organizational risk tolerance) and whether different courses of action should be taken.

Modules include:

NIST Special Publication 800-30 - Risk Management Guide for Information Technology Systems

800-30Risk Assessment Methodology

NIST 800-30 is part of an overall process outlining the specific steps needed in an organization’s risk assessment of their IT system. It’s typically used in federal information systems. This step-by-step guide shows how to conduct the assessment, identify the assets, vulnerability identification or threat events, and the potential impact on the organization.

The guide is a roadmap for the assessment. It assists the organization in preparing for it, conducting each part of it, and then effectively communicating the results in risk assessment reports. It helps better evaluate existing security controls and any needed improvements.

This methodology helps streamline what can be a complex process, ensuring that the steps in a risk analysis are done correctly.

Why Choose Us

Continuum GRC is a leading expert in risk management (and everything around it). We work with companies nationally and internationally to help them better navigate the complexities of various assessments, regulations, and compliance needs. We’re deeply familiar with NIST 800-3001 helping risk assessment teams use it effectively. We’ll help you better identify and prioritize risk response actions in your organization, and create effective reporting and documentation. Because we’ve worked with so many high-level organizations at the Federal level, we can save you time and resources on working through this key step.

FAQ

How are risks prioritized in NIST 800-30?

With NIST 800-30, risks are prioritized based on their likelihood and the potential severity of the impact upon the organization (often done using a risk matrix). It then provides a framework for methodically working to address potential threats in their order of importance, with resources allocated appropriately.

Why is NIST SP 800-30 important?

Conducting risk assessments can be complex. There are many steps that must be addressed and in a certain order. NIST SP 800-30 breaks down each step, ensuring that the process is methodical and thorough. It’s a roadmap to ensure that your IT system is secure in handling sensitive data.

How does NIST SP 800-30 enhance cybersecurity?

NIST SP 800-30 gives organizations the structured methodology to conduct effective risk assessments of their information systems. With a cohesive way to identify, analyze, and prioritize risks to their sensitive data, it creates better decision-making and spending around risk management. Teams know where to proactively allocate resources and attention.

What are the key components of NIST SP 800-30?

The objective is to give organizations a very structured approach to a risk assessment of their IT systems. It begins with what’s needed to prepare for the assessment, as in scope and objectives. It walks the team through conducting the assessment and identifying threats. It helps effectively document the findings for mitigation and finally, establish ongoing monitoring.

What tools or methods can be used?

A variety of methods can be used for NIST 800-30. Quantitative or qualitative data analysis, cost-benefit analysis, historical data, risk matrices, vulnerability scanning and penetration tests are all in the tool box. NIST 800-30 outlines and recommends different tools depending on objectives.

How can organizations get started with NIST 800-30?

It’s important to begin with a clear scope and purpose for the assessment. Which systems, data, and locations are involved? Starting there will make the use of NIST 800-30 most effective. Continuum GRC can also help, navigating your organization through this process in a more efficient way.

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