About this Framework
CIS Benchmarks are consensus-based, internationally recognised configuration security guidelines developed by cybersecurity experts for over 100 technology platforms — operating systems (Windows Server, Ubuntu, RHEL, macOS), cloud providers (AWS, Azure, GCP), containers (Docker, Kubernetes), databases, network devices and desktop applications. Available in two implementation profiles (Level 1: essential security; Level 2: defence-in-depth), CIS Benchmarks are directly referenced in PCI DSS, HIPAA audit guidelines, NIST CSF and DISA STIGs for U.S. government systems.
Key Control Domains
Operating System Hardening (Windows/Linux/macOS)
Cloud Platform Security Baselines (AWS/Azure/GCP)
Container Security (Docker/Kubernetes/OpenShift)
Network Device Configuration (Cisco/Juniper)
Database Security (SQL Server/Oracle/PostgreSQL)
Web Server Configuration (Apache/Nginx/IIS)
Browser Security
Mobile Device Security
CI/CD Pipeline Security
Who Needs This?
- System administrators and cloud platform architects
- Security engineering teams managing configuration compliance
- Organisations under PCI DSS, HIPAA or NIST audit requirements
- DevSecOps teams automating secure infrastructure-as-code
- Cloud security teams establishing account-level security baselines
Compliance Benefits
- Free, downloadable guidelines for 100+ technology platforms
- Industry consensus — reviewed and validated by global security experts
- Directly referenced in PCI DSS, HIPAA guidance and NIST frameworks
- Automatable via CIS-CAT tool for continuous compliance scanning
Official Reference
CIS Benchmarks Official Page
https://www.cisecurity.org/cis-benchmarks/
Assessment Details
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