Which framework outlines the best practices for continuous monitoring of security controls?

The framework that outlines the best practices for continuous monitoring of security controls is NIST Special Publication 800-137. This publication specifically focuses on the implementation of a continuous monitoring program as part of an organization’s overall risk management framework.

NIST 800-137 emphasizes the importance of ongoing assessments of security controls, which is critical for ensuring that security measures remain effective in the face of evolving threats. It provides guidelines on how organizations can establish a continuous monitoring strategy, detailing the processes needed to collect, analyze, and respond to security data on an ongoing basis.

The other options, while important in the broader context of cybersecurity, have different primary focuses. NIST Special Publication 800-53 primarily addresses the selection and specification of security controls for federal information systems but does not specifically concentrate on continuous monitoring best practices. The NIST Cybersecurity Framework provides a high-level framework for managing cybersecurity risk but is not solely dedicated to continuous monitoring of security controls. Meanwhile, the NIST Risk Management Framework provides a structured process for integrating security and risk management activities into the system development life cycle but does not focus specifically on continuous monitoring as a standalone practice.