NIS2 Regulation: a new security standard for the future of business

How to protect corporate data and tackle the challenges of digital transformation with innovative solutions

In an increasingly data-driven market, cybersecurity and data protection have become strategic assets for ensuring business continuity and strengthening the trust of customers and partners. Companies are required to enhance their security systems to counter the growing number of cyberattacks, prevent data breaches, and efficiently manage potential technical issues.

Key challenges to address:

• Growing cyber threats: phishing and ransomware are among the most common threats, demanding ever more advanced defense solutions;
• Regulatory compliance: with the introduction of the NIS2 directive and the GDPR, organizations must adopt increasingly sophisticated data management strategies;
• Protection of sensitive data: with the rise of remote work and cloud services, safeguarding critical information has become essential.

Here are some key guidelines to understand the main updates introduced by the European directive.
 

What is NIS2 and why does it matter?
As of October 16, 2024, the NIS2 Directive (Network and Information Security) is in force, implemented in Italy through Legislative Decree 138/2024. This directive introduces important measures to improve national cybersecurity. NIS2 aims to strengthen information protection—especially personal and sensitive data—by enhancing network security in the most critical sectors.
 

Similar to ISO 27001 certification, the new regulatory framework expands and enhances the previous NIS directive, widening its scope and introducing consistent criteria for identifying the entities involved. It classifies these as “essential” and “important” based on the relevance of the sector and the activities performed.

Main updates include:

• Expanded obligations regarding security measures and incident notifications;
• Strengthened supervisory powers;
• Improved incident response mechanisms and crisis management structures;
• Introduction of coordinated vulnerability disclosure.
   

The regulation also promotes a more advanced risk management approach, requiring appropriate security measures and a fast and effective incident reporting system. It encourages cooperation and information sharing at both national and European levels, with an emphasis on gradual and proportional implementation of obligations.
 

NIS2 also underlines the importance of protecting not only the company but also its suppliers and subcontractors. Everyone contributing to service delivery must adopt proper security measures to ensure operational continuity and resilience.
 

The regulation applies to 18 sectors:

• 11 highly critical (e.g., energy, transportation, healthcare);
• 7 critical (e.g., waste management, food production);
• The entire ICT ecosystem is included, with possible exclusions through a safeguard clause.

Obligations and Deadlines
The NIS2 Directive defines two types of obligations:

• Basic obligations: minimum measures to be applied immediately across all ICT infrastructure;
• Long-term obligations: more complex sector-specific measures, to be implemented over the medium to long term based on entity category.

Key deadlines include:

• May 31, 2025: annual update of information by NIS entities;
• January 2026: obligation to notify significant incidents;
• October 2026: full implementation of required security measures.

Failure to comply with these provisions may result in severe penalties, including reputational damage to the company.

How to Prepare for NIS2 Implementation
Compliance with the NIS2 directive is not just a legal requirement, but a real opportunity for innovation. Investing in advanced solutions allows companies to:
 

• Build customer trust;
• Reduce financial risks from potential breaches;
• Promote innovation and operational flexibility.

To ensure effective protection, it is crucial to implement:

• Penetration testing and regular vulnerability assessments;
• Continuous staff training to maintain high awareness and updated cybersecurity skills.

NIS2 compliance requires a dynamic and ongoing approach: it’s not a one-off task, but a journey toward true cyber resilience.

Why Choose GMDE
In this context, GMDE stands out as a certified strategic partner, supporting companies in their compliance journey and providing advanced technology solutions to build a secure and high-performing digital ecosystem.

Contact us today to learn more and schedule a free demo with our experts.
 

Sources: WoodWing, ACN

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