If you’re an IT manager, you’re sure to know how demanding data security regulations can be. Recently, new challenges have emerged, such as the NIS2 directive and the ISO/IEC 27001 standard. Both regulations emphasize that organizations should operate more securely and protect their data more effectively. But how do you meet this, especially in a fast-paced remote and cloud work environment?

Microsoft comes to the rescue. Thanks to its tools, such as Microsoft 365 or Azure, it helps companies not only meet legal requirements, but also really increase the level of security.

What Are NIS2 And ISO 27001?

NIS2

A new EU directive on cybersecurity, aimed mainly at companies from the critical infrastructure sector. It imposes obligations such as risk management, incident reporting, and securing supply chains. 

ISO/IEC 27001

An international standard for information security management that helps companies systematically protect their data.
Although NIS2 and ISO differ in scope, they share a common goal: to increase an organization’s resilience to cyber threats.

How Does Microsoft Help You Meet These Requirements?

Out-Of-The-Box Compliance Tools

Microsoft provides tools that practically “lead by the hand” in the process of compliance with regulations: 

  • Microsoft Purview Compliance Manager – offers ready-made templates for assessing compliance with ISO 27001 and NIS2. It indicates what is already done and what needs improvement. 
  • Microsoft Defender for Cloud – monitors the IT environment, detecting potential threats and helping to eliminate them. 

Advanced Access Management

Security starts with data access control. With Azure Active Directory , you can: 

  • Require multi-factor sign-in (MFA). 
  • Set access policies that automatically respond to unusual activities. 
  • Manage access to sensitive data from a single tool. 

Risk And Threat Management

  • Secure Score – a practical tool that shows how secure your company’s IT environment is and what you can improve. 
  • Defender Vulnerability Management – helps to identify and quickly address weak points in the infrastructure. 

Incident Reporting and Response

Under NIS2, companies must report incidents quickly. Microsoft helps with this by: 

  • Microsoft Sentinel – a tool that automates threat detection and creates reports required by regulations. 
  • Pre-built reporting templates to help you analyze and document each incident. 

Practical Tips for Managers

  1. Use ready-made Microsoft toolsInstead of starting from scratch, use templates in Purview Compliance Manager. This will save you time and help you achieve compliance.

     

  2. Implement the Zero Trust principle 
    Don’t take anyone’s word for it – verify user identities, limit access to data, and always assume that a security breach may occur.

     

  3. Automate processes
    Tools like Microsoft Sentinel can help you detect and respond to threats faster without delay.

     

  4. Monitor your security regularly 
    Use Secure Score to continuously assess and improve security in your business.

     

  5. Train your team 
    Even the best tools won’t help if your team doesn’t know how to use them. Focus on education and building awareness.