Key point: NIS2 makes the control of network connections a central compliance obligation, as these serve as primary attack vectors against critical infrastructure.
The NIS2 Directive tightens cybersecurity requirements for operators of critical infrastructure and essential services. Network connections become a central risk factor in this context, as they represent direct attack vectors against sensitive systems.
The revision of the Directive on measures for a high level of security of network and information systems (NIS2) significantly expands the circle of regulated actors while simultaneously tightening compliance requirements. While NIS1 primarily addressed telecommunications providers and energy suppliers, NIS2 now also covers operators of water and waste management, transport sector infrastructure, digital services, and other sectors.
Network connections represent a core risk in this context: every external access to operational systems – whether for remote maintenance, remote monitoring, or data exchange – opens up potential attack vectors. CISOs must therefore not only harden their own network boundaries but also regulate networking with suppliers, partners, and operators. The lack of or inadequate segmentation of these connections leads to cascading effects, in which compromises can spread across systems.
Under NIS2, a risk assessment of these connections is mandatory: organizations must document which network connections exist, which data and processes they affect, and which security controls have been implemented. This requires an inventory of critical infrastructure, zero-trust approaches to authentication, and continuous monitoring of connection patterns.
Non-compliance with these requirements can result in substantial fines and operating bans. CISOs should review their network governance processes accordingly and ensure that procedures for the approval, authentication, and auditing of connections are established.
Source: news.google.com · Published 18 July 2026
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