According to CIS Controls, what is the most important initial step for organizations?

The most important initial step for organizations, as outlined by the CIS Controls, is inventorying and controlling enterprise assets. This step is crucial because organizations need to have a comprehensive understanding of what assets they possess before they can adequately protect them. By identifying and maintaining an accurate inventory of hardware and software, organizations are better equipped to assess vulnerabilities, prioritize security efforts, and implement appropriate controls.

Knowing what assets exist helps organizations to identify any unauthorized devices or software that could pose a security threat. Furthermore, having a controlled inventory allows for efficient management, compliance with regulations, and informed decision-making regarding risk management strategies. This foundational step sets the stage for all subsequent security measures, as it directly informs risk assessments, access control policies, and security training initiatives. Without a clear inventory of assets, any other security efforts may be misdirected or ineffective, making this the critical first step in establishing a robust security posture.