Start with the terms before building the cybersecurity program.

The CIS Community Defense Model (CDM) v3.0 Free Glossary is a plain-language reference guide for small businesses, consultants, MSPs, vCISOs, IT teams, compliance professionals, and security leaders who want to better understand cybersecurity documentation and implementation terminology.

Use this free glossary to understand key terms related to CIS CDM v3.0, CIS Controls, governance, risk management, access control, MFA, vulnerability management, incident response, evidence tracking, control reviews, documentation, and audit readiness.

This resource is helpful before creating policies, checklists, registers, evidence records, risk documentation, incident response plans, or customer security responses.

Digital download only. Informational and educational use only. Not legal, regulatory, audit, cybersecurity, or professional advice. No guarantee of compliance, audit results, certification, risk reduction, or customer approval. Not affiliated with or endorsed by CIS. No warranty. Single-user / single-organization license; resale, sharing, redistribution, or repackaging is prohibited.