Guide to Security Policies, Standards and Guidelines

Introduction:
Understanding the concept of Security Policies, Standards, and Guidelines is crucial to comprehend the foundation of information security. They provide the foundational directives which allow an organization to securely operate its information systems.
Importance:
Security Policies, Standards, and Guidelines are essential because they dictate the baseline for security in an organization and define what is expected from all the stakeholders in terms of information security. These policies facilitate the mitigation of potential risks and provide a clear protocol in case of a security breach.
How it works:
A Security Policy is a statement that dictates the protection of an organization’s assets. Standards are specific mandatory actions or rules. They ensure uniformity and consistency in compliance with security policies. Guidelines are recommended actions and operational guides to support standards.
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Security Policies, Standards and Guidelines:
When faced with questions on policies, standards, and guidelines in the exam, remember that a policy is mandatory and high level, a standard is mandatory but at a detailed level, guidelines are suggested actions, useful to achieve the standards. If a question discusses about ensuring all employees follow the same protocol, the answer likely refers to 'standards'. If it talks about overall mandatory norm, it is a 'policy'. And if it regards to recommended actions, think 'guidelines'.
Be sure to give examples, provide the importance, and explain how they work individually and together to provide a structured and safe environment for information security.