In the intricate landscape of cybersecurity, effective risk management is paramount. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Risk Management Framework (RMF) is a structured approach that stands as a guiding light for organizations, helping them navigate the complex journey of securing digital assets and managing cybersecurity risks. In this chapter, we embark on an enlightening exploration of the NIST RMF, unraveling its history, key components, stages, and the pivotal roles played by individuals in this critical framework.

In this chapter, we’re going to cover the following main topics:

• The history and evolution of the NIST RMF
• The key components and stages of the RMF
• Roles and responsibilities in the RMF