Starting Your Security Framework Journey: A Practical Implementation Guide

For many MSPs, the biggest challenge isn't deciding which security framework to use—it's figuring out how to get started without overwhelming your team or clients. With 153 safeguards in CIS and numerous controls in NIST CSF, implementation can seem intimidating. With a structured approach, however, you can build a successful security program aligned to cybersecurity frameworks that grows with your business.

Understand Your Starting Point

Begin by assessing your current environment:

Data vs. Systems Focus: Determine whether your clients' primary concerns revolve around protecting specific data types (such as PII, financial records, or intellectual property)or securing systems and infrastructure. This focus will influence which controls you prioritize.

Existing Controls: Document security measures already in place. Many MSPs are surprised to discover they've already implemented numerous framework controls through standard best practices.

Regulatory Requirements: Identify any compliance mandates your clients face (HIPAA, CMMC, PCI, etc.).With many small businesses falling under some form of regulation or compliance requirement, this is an important consideration.

Create Your Baseline Assessment

Don't skip this crucial step. A thorough baseline helps you:

Identify current security postures
Identify current security postures
Establish measurable improvement metrics
Demonstrate progress to clients over time

For most MSPs, starting with CIS Implementation Group 1(IG1) provides the essential security controls every organization needs. This focused approach prevents the "analysis paralysis" that comes from trying to implement everything at once.

Build a 12-Month Roadmap

Break implementation into manageable phases over a one-year timeline:

Months 1-3

Document asset inventory
Implement basic access controls
Establish data protection protocols
Deploy security awareness training

Months 4-8:

Enhance vulnerability management
Implement logging and monitoring
Develop incident response procedures
Formalize security policies

Months 9-12:

Conduct security testing
Refine monitoring capabilities
Implement third-party risk management
Establish regular security exercises

Remember, perfection is the enemy of progress. It's better to implement 80% of critical controls well than to attempt 100% implementation and achieve poor results.

Automation is Key

For resource-constrained MSPs, automation makes framework implementation feasible. Todyl GRC, part of our unified security platform:

Maps your existing security controls to frameworks
Tracks implementation progress
Provides ready-to-use policies and procedures
Collects evidence through SIEM integration

This approach reduces the administrative burden while ensuring consistent application across all clients.

Communicate Value Effectively

Client buy-in dramatically improves when you translate technical controls into business outcomes:

Demonstrate how framework implementation reduces risk of costly breaches
Explain how proper security posture positions them for business opportunities
Show how frameworks help meet cyber insurance requirements and potentially reduce premiums
Highlight the competitive advantage of demonstrable security practices

Start Your Journey Today

Security frameworks don't have to be overwhelming. By starting with essential controls, building a practical roadmap, and leveraging automation, you can implement effective security governance regardless of your team size or technical expertise.

Request a trial of the Todyl Platform to see how Todyl GRC can simplify your security framework journey and help deliver measurable security outcomes for your clients.