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NIST develops cybersecurity and privacy standards, guidelines, best practices, and resources to meet the needs of U.S. industry, federal agencies, and the broader public. Our activities range from producing specific information that organizations can put into practice immediately to longer-term research that anticipates future challenges and technological advancements.
Our cybersecurity and privacy work is driven by the needs of U.S. industry and the broader public — and is sometimes defined by federal statutes, executive orders, and policies. NIST also advances the understanding and improves the management of privacy risks — some of which relate directly to cybersecurity.
We engage vigorously with stakeholders to set priorities and ensure that our resources address key issues that they face. Priority areas to which NIST contributes include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Cryptography
- Education and workforce
- Emerging technologies
- Human-centered cybersecurity
- Identity and access management
- Privacy
- Risk management
- Trusted networks and platforms
The President’s Executive Order (EO) on Sustaining Select Efforts to Strengthen the Nation’s Cybersecurity and Amending Executive Order 13694 and Executive Order 14144 issued on June 6, 2025, charges multiple agencies – including NIST – to strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity by focusing on critical protections against foreign cyber threats and enhancing secure technology practices. Learn more about NIST responsibilities outlined in the EO.
News and Updates
NIST Joins National Genesis Mission to Accelerate AI Innovation
NIST Mathematical Proof Supports Transition to a Continuous-Monitor-and-Update Security Model for AI Systems
NIST Allocates Over $3 Million to Small Businesses Advancing AI, Biotechnology, Semiconductors, Quantum and More
Explainers
How Do I Create a Good Password?
What Is Quantum Cryptography?
What Is Post-Quantum Cryptography?
Videos
Protecting Your Small Business: Ransomware
Protecting Your Small Business: Phishing
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0
Blog Posts
Quantum Computers May Put Internet Traffic at Risk. NIST Is Safeguarding Computers With New Standards.
AI in the Doctor’s Office: How Standards Can Support Trustworthiness
