Getting the Basics Right: Core Security Technologies That Actually Matter
Before chasing the next shiny cybersecurity tool, let’s get the basics right. From MFA and email hardening to open-source tools that punch above their weight—here’s how to build a solid foundation for your security program.
Risk Assessments for Beginners: Simple, Practical, and Actionable
Think of it like this: telling a kid not to run with scissors isn’t just a rule—it’s risk management. You’re not just saying “no” to be annoying. You’re identifying a risk (injury), a threat actor (a wild 6-year-old), and possible mitigations: walk carefully, use child-safe scissors, store them in a high drawer, maybe even add some blunt tip training wheels.
Start Simple: The Policies You Can’t Skip When Building a Cybersecurity Program
This post walks through the foundational cybersecurity policies needed to operationalize your security program without overburdening the business. Learn how to create short, actionable, risk-based policies that reflect leadership intent, align with business capability, and drive real risk reduction—not just compliance. Includes free templates and guidance on policy governance.
Building a Cybersecurity from Scratch: The First Critical Hires and Partnerships
Starting a cybersecurity program from scratch sounds exciting… until it’s you sitting in the chair deciding where to begin. Let’s talk about your first critical hires!
How to Choose the Right Cybersecurity Framework (Without Losing Your Mind)
When you’re starting to build a cybersecurity program from scratch, one of the first real decision points you’ll hit is: “What framework should we use?”
Laying the First Bricks: Setting Up Initial Reporting Lines (Who Owns Security?)
One of the earliest (and honestly, one of the trickiest) questions you’ll face when standing up a cybersecurity program is simple to ask but not always simple to answer: Who actually owns cybersecurity?
Laying the First Bricks: Define Your Crown Jewels: Focus Where It Matters Most
Learn how to identify and protect your organization’s crown jewels — the critical data, systems, and IP that truly matter — with real-world cybersecurity guidance.
Laying the First Bricks: Establish Executive Sponsorship Early (And How to Keep Them Engaged)
When you’re standing up a cybersecurity program from scratch, one of the most critical (and often underestimated) steps is securing executive sponsorship.
Laying the First Bricks: Understand the Business Context: Mission, Goals, and Critical Assets
Before you ever mention a firewall, a vulnerability scan, or MFA, pause and ask yourself:
What is this organization really trying to achieve?
Laying the First Bricks: Why Cybersecurity Programs Fail Without a Strong Foundation
Starting a cybersecurity program from scratch? Learn why many security programs fail and how to build one with business alignment, executive support, and clear ownership.