The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) is a German federal authority responsible for security in information technology. It was founded in 1991 in response to the growing importance of information technology and the associated security risks.
The BSI plays an important role in ensuring cyber security in Germany. It works with other national and international organizations to counter threats and improve the security of information technology. It advises the German government on IT security issues and helps to develop security strategies and standards. In addition, the BSI develops security standards and guidelines for public administration and promotes their use in the private sector.
The BSI conducts research in the field of information security in order to develop new technologies and methods to defend against threats. By doing so, it plays a central role in detecting and responding to security incidents in Germany. It operates the national IT situation center and coordinates the response to major incidents.
Another task of the BSI is the certification of IT products and services and the accreditation of relevant test centers. The BSI also informs and raises public awareness of IT security issues and offers assistance and recommendations.
The BSI currently employs around 1,400 people with different backgrounds and expertise to cover its extensive range of tasks in the field of IT security. The specialist work is organized into eight departments. Each department consists of up to three specialist areas and the specialist areas are subdivided into various divisions.
The BSI attaches great importance to the continuous training of its employees to ensure that they can keep pace with the fast-moving developments in the field. In addition, the BSI promotes interdisciplinary cooperation to ensure a comprehensive approach to the diverse challenges of IT security.
The BSI initiates and participates in a large number of projects and initiatives aimed at improving IT security at various levels. These initiatives reflect the broad spectrum of the BSI’s activities, which range from awareness-raising and education to practical support, the development of security standards, and international cooperation.
National Cyber Defense Center
The National Cyber Defense Center (NCAZ) is a central institution for strengthening cyber security and defending against cyberattacks. The NCAZ coordinates cooperation between various federal authorities responsible for IT security, such as the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA), the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), and others. One of the main objectives of the NCAZ is the rapid and effective exchange of information on cyber threats and security vulnerabilities between the participating authorities.
Alliance for Cyber Security
The Alliance for Cyber Security is an initiative in Germany that was founded by the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) in cooperation with German industry. Its aim is to strengthen the German economy’s resilience to cyberattacks and raise awareness of cyber security. The alliance provides a platform for the exchange of information, experience and best practices in the field of IT security.
UP Kritis
“UP KRITIS” stands for “Comprehensive Plan for the Protection of Critical Infrastructures” and is an initiative of the German government that aims to strengthen the security of critical infrastructures (CRITIS) against threats, especially cyber threats. Critical infrastructure includes facilities and services that are essential to the functioning of society and the economy, such as energy supply, water management, healthcare, transportation and traffic, finance and insurance, food, and information and communication technologies.
CRITIS protection certificates
The BSI maintains a list of special DDoS protection providers that meet the authority’s strict requirements for the protection of specific CRITIS companies. Security companies that end up on this list not only fulfill all points on the technical level, but also impress with their compliance with strict European data protection laws. Incidentally, Link11 is one of these companies that have been certified by the BSI for the use of critical infrastructures.
BSI for Citizens
The “BSI for Citizens” platform is an online service from the BSI that is aimed specifically at private users. It provides citizens with basic information and assistance on the subject of IT security. This includes topics such as secure passwords, protection against malware, secure online banking, and data protection.
What is the IT baseline protection compendium?
The IT baseline protection compendium is a comprehensive guide published by the BSI. It serves as a central tool for implementing and managing IT security measures in organizations.
The compendium offers standardized recommendations for security measures that can be applied to a wide range of IT systems, components, and processes. It has a modular structure and covers various aspects of IT security, from network and application security to organizational measures and emergency management.
The compendium contains best practices, guidelines and technical instructions to improve the security of information technology in organizations. It is aimed at IT managers, security officers and management levels in companies and public authorities, and offers practical guidance on risk assessment and management.
Organizations that implement their IT security in accordance with the BSI standard can strive for certification in accordance with IT baseline protection. This indicates that they have achieved a high level of IT security. The BSI regularly updates the compendium to address new technologies, threats and security requirements. The so-called IT-Grundschutz compendium is recognized in Germany and internationally and is often used as a benchmark for comprehensive and effective IT security practices.
