What is a key focus of CIS Control 1?

CIS Control 1 emphasizes the importance of maintaining an inventory of IT assets as a fundamental security measure. Keeping a detailed and accurate inventory allows organizations to have a clear understanding of what hardware and software they possess, which is crucial for managing vulnerabilities and ensuring compliance. This inventory serves as the foundation for implementing effective security controls, as it enables the identification of all devices within the network that could potentially be targets for threats or attacks.

By knowing the assets that exist, organizations can better monitor and protect their environments, making informed decisions about risk management and resource allocation. This control is essential not just for tracking hardware and software but also for understanding the potential attack surfaces within an organization, thus facilitating stronger security practices and incident response.