Framework: The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Top 18 Controls

Safeguard 7.2 establishes the requirement for formal remediation timelines, often codified as Service Level Agreements (SLAs), to ensure that identified vulnerabilities are addressed promptly and consistently. Without clear deadlines, patching and remediation can slip behind operational priorities, leaving systems exposed for extended periods. This safeguard mandates defining risk-based timeframes for remediation—such as fixing critical vulnerabilities within 15 days, high-severity issues within 30, and lower-risk items within 90. These benchmarks align with the enterprise’s risk tolerance, compliance obligations, and available resources. Documented timelines transform vulnerability management from an open-ended exercise into a structured commitment that can be measured and enforced. They also facilitate accountability, as each vulnerability record includes an assigned owner responsible for remediation progress.

Implementing this safeguard involves collaboration between security, IT, and business units. Automated workflow tools can generate tickets directly from scan results, tracking status and escalation according to SLA deadlines. Dashboards should display metrics like remediation rate, overdue vulnerabilities, and trend analysis to guide leadership oversight. Exception processes allow justified delays—such as compatibility concerns—to be documented and risk-accepted formally. Periodic reviews ensure that timelines remain realistic and aligned with current threat levels. When consistently applied, remediation SLAs foster a culture of urgency around security hygiene, balancing operational stability with proactive risk reduction. Over time, adherence to defined timelines not only lowers the number of exploitable systems but also builds organizational discipline—embedding security maintenance into standard business rhythm rather than treating it as an afterthought.
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