DORA (Digital Operational Resilience Act) and NIS2 (Network and Information Security Directive 2) are both regulations addressing cybersecurity and risk management, but they have different focus areas and requirements.
DORA primarily targets the financial sector and the management of ICT risks to safeguard financial stability. ICT (Information and Communication Technology) encompasses technologies and systems used to handle, process, transfer, and store information—such as computers, networks, software, and data centers. DORA emphasizes advanced ICT testing, like threat-led penetration tests, and imposes strict requirements for managing third-party ICT service providers.
NIS2, on the other hand, has a broader scope, covering essential and important services such as healthcare, energy, and transportation. NIS2 focuses on general cybersecurity and service continuity, including supply chain management requirements, but without the same technical depth as DORA.
Comparison of DORA and NIS2
| Aspect | DORA | NIS2 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | ICT risks and financial stability | General cybersecurity and service continuity |
| Sector Specificity | Financial sector | Essential/important services (e.g., healthcare, energy) |
| Testing and Resilience | Emphasis on ICT-specific tests (e.g., threat-led penetration tests) | General cybersecurity resilience, less prescriptive |
| Third-Party Risk | Strong focus on ICT providers | Broader supply chain security requirements |
| Board’s Role | Oversight of financial and ICT risks | Strategic oversight of cybersecurity |
Key Differences
- Focus Area: DORA is ICT-focused and aimed at the financial sector, while NIS2 covers general cybersecurity across sectors.
- Testing Requirements: DORA requires advanced ICT testing, whereas NIS2 focuses on broader resilience.
- Third-Party Oversight: DORA has a stronger focus on ICT service providers, while NIS2 addresses broader supply chain security.