Cybersecurity is becoming increasingly critical, especially for industries that keep our world running, such as healthcare, energy, and transportation.
The European Union's new NIS2 Directive is a big deal in this space, raising the bar on how businesses protect themselves from cyber threats.
The Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) is one tool that's becoming a game-changer for NIS2 compliance.
But what is SBOM, and why should you care?
What is the NIS2 Directive?
The Network and Information Security (NIS) Directive was introduced in 2016 to raise the overall level of cybersecurity in the EU.
The NIS2 Directive builds on the original version and sets tougher rules for securing essential services. It aims to normalize incident notifications, security requirements, supervisory measures, and information sharing across the EU.
The NIS2 Directive covers more industries than the original and focuses heavily on issues like supply chain security, faster incident response, and better company collaboration to fight cyberattacks.
What’s an SBOM, and Why is It Important?
Think of an SBOM as a detailed ingredient list for your software. It tells you everything that’s in your software—whether it’s from open-source libraries, third-party vendors, or your own proprietary code.
In a world where supply chain attacks (like the infamous SolarWinds hack) are becoming more common, knowing precisely what's inside your software is essential. That’s where SBOM comes in, providing clarity and helping you catch vulnerabilities before they cause big problems.
Why SBOM Matters for NIS2
SBOMs help companies meet the new cybersecurity requirements under NIS2.
Here’s why they’re so important in the context of NIS2:
Securing the Supply Chain
NIS2 significantly emphasizes that businesses should secure their entire supply chain, including the software they use. With an SBOM, you get a clear picture of what’s in your software and can spot risks tied to specific components. It’s like having a detailed map to find and fix vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.
Staying Ahead of Vulnerabilities
The NIS2 security baseline expects security around system procurement, development, and operation. Thanks to databases like the NVD (National Vulnerability Database), you can automatically check your software for known vulnerabilities by using an SBOM. This proactive approach helps you find and fix problems before they become significant threats, which is exactly what NIS2 aims to encourage.
Faster Incident Response
NIS2 sets very specific obligations for reporting security incidents. If something goes wrong—a hack or breach—you need to know what’s at risk immediately. If log4shell is any guide, it has been challenging to achieve historically, putting compliance with NIS2 at risk. SBOM gives you that insight by showing which software components are affected, helping you respond quicker and limit damage.
Transparency and Compliance
To follow the rules set by NIS2, companies need to prove they’re taking cybersecurity seriously. An SBOM is like your proof of due diligence. It shows regulators that you track your software’s security and proactively manage risks.
Why Should You Start Using SBOM?
Cyberattacks are getting more sophisticated, and regulations like NIS2 are putting pressure on companies to be proactive. Using an SBOM is one of the best ways to stay on top. It makes it easier to spot and manage risks, ensures you’re following the rules, and ultimately helps protect your organization from the growing threat of cyberattacks.
With tools like Interlynk’s SBOM automation platform, it's easier than ever to integrate SBOMs into your workflow, saving time and improving your security posture. Whether you're handling compliance for NIS2 or just want to boost your cybersecurity game, SBOMs give you the visibility and control you need to succeed.
The NIS2 Directive is here to strengthen cybersecurity across Europe, and with it comes stricter rules for protecting businesses and their software. SBOMs are a simple but powerful tool to help meet those demands. Using an SBOM lets you get a clear view of your software’s components, spot potential threats early, and stay compliant with new regulations.
Bottom Line
If you’re serious about securing your software and staying compliant with NIS2, SBOMs should be at the top of your list. They’re not just a regulatory box to tick—they’re key to keeping your systems safe in an increasingly risky digital world.
