Cybersecurity

With a world-class measurement and testing laboratory encompassing a wide range of areas of computer science, mathematics, statistics, and systems engineering, NIST’s cybersecurity program supports its overall mission to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and related technology through research and development in ways that enhance economic security and improve our quality of life. 

The need for cybersecurity standards and best practices that address interoperability, usability, and privacy continues to be critical for the nation. NIST’s cybersecurity programs seek to enable greater development and application of practical, innovative security technologies and methodologies that enhance the country’s ability to address current and future computer and information security challenges. 

NIST develops cybersecurity standards, guidelines, best practices, and resources to meet the needs of U.S. industry, federal agencies, and the broader public. We carry out cybersecurity assignments defined by federal statutes, executive orders, and policies—including developing cybersecurity standards and guidelines for federal agencies. We also work closely with organizations in the public and private sectors to ensure that our information can be readily leveraged to address specific issues that they face.

Some of our primary areas of focus are highlighted in our Vitals Fact Sheets:

• Cybersecurity Vitals Fact Sheet (updated Aug 2021)
• Cybersecurity Vitals Fact Sheet (Extended Version)