"Security is not a product, but a process." – Bruce Schneier

In today’s endpoints landscape, organizations managing macOS / Windows endpoints face an increasing need to enforce stringent security standards to protect sensitive data. The CIS (Center for Internet Security) Benchmarks serve as a globally recognized framework for safeguarding endpoints against security threats. When combined with the powerful capabilities of Mobile Device Management (MDM) such as Jamf Pro, Intune, Endpoint Central, etc., , IT administrators can seamlessly implement these benchmarks to enhance security without compromising user experience.

CIS Benchmarks are consensus-based, best-practice security configuration guides. They provide detailed recommendations on configuring IT systems to mitigate vulnerabilities. For macOS, the CIS Apple macOS Benchmark offers actionable steps to harden systems against cyberattacks while ensuring compliance with organizational security policies.

Using CIS Benchmarks does not only enhance endpoint security but also enhances regulatory compliance, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or CMMC, making it a valuable framework for businesses across industries.

Jamf Pro, a comprehensive Apple device management solution, empowers organizations to automate the enforcement of CIS Benchmarks for macOS, iOS/iPadOS. Its central management, scalability, and user-friendly interface enable IT teams to efficiently configure, monitor, and remediate MacOS endpoints.

Jamf Pro’s features, such as configuration profiles, scripts, and compliance reporting, make it an ideal tool for implementing CIS Benchmarks. Moreover, its compatibility with macOS ensures seamless deployment and real-time monitoring, reducing the burden on IT teams while maintaining robust security postures.

Key Steps for Implementing CIS Benchmarks in Jamf Pro

1. Assessment and Planning

Start by reviewing the CIS Apple macOS Benchmark to identify recommendations relevant to your organization’s environment. Categorize these into critical,

recommended, and optional settings. This step ensures the security configuration aligns with your business requirements.

2. Configuration Profile Creation

Jamf Pro’s configuration profiles are a key component in enforcing CIS Benchmarks. For instance:

• Password Policies


• Firewall Settings


• Screen Lock


• FileVault Encryption

3. Custom Scripts for Advanced Settings

Certain CIS recommendations require settings not to be configured via profiles. For these, you can use Jamf Pro’s scripting capabilities.

4. Testing in a Controlled Environment

Before organization-wide deployment, test your CIS compliance configurations in a

pilot group. This step ensures compatibility and user experience are preserved.

5. Deployment and Monitoring

Post validated, deploy the profiles and scripts to all managed devices. Use Jamf Pro’s

inventory and reporting features to track compliance status in real-time. Create smart

groups for devices failing compliance and trigger remediation actions automatically.

6. Use of Jamf Compliance Editor

Jamf compliance Editor is a free add-on utility for Jamf Pro that simplifies

compliance baseline management across Apple devices. IT administrators can

efficiently, track, and enforce security benchmarks, ensuring compliance with

industry standards.

Key Features:

• Built-in Benchmarks & Baselines – Easily select and customize CIS, NIST, and other security frameworks.


• Support for macOS, iOS, iPadOS, and visionOS – Ensure compliance across all major Apple endpoints.


• Custom Organization-Defined Values (ODVs) – Tailor settings to align with business policies.


• Automated Compliance Reporting – Export PDF, Excel, HTML, and Jamf Pro Extension Attributes of macOS for audits.


• One-Click Remediation – Generate shell scripts (zsh) for automated security enforcement on macOS.


• MDM-Ready Profiles – Upload configured security profiles to Jamf Pro for seamless deployment.

Jamf Compliance Editor is available on the official GitHub Repository

7. Compliance Reporting

Jamf Pro’s reporting capabilities allow you to generate detailed compliance reports.

Acquire these to identify non-compliant devices and address issues promptly. Export

reports to meet regulatory audit requirements.

Benefits of CIS Benchmarks in Jamf Pro

1. Strengthened Security: By implementing industry-standard security

configurations, you significantly reduce the attack surface on macOS devices.

2. Regulatory Compliance: Simplifies adherence to regulatory frameworks by

providing documented and auditable configurations.

3. Operational Efficiency: Automation of deployment and monitoring reduces manual

effort, freeing up IT resources for other critical tasks.

4. User Experience: Jamf Pro ensures that security measures do not hinder

productivity, providing a seamless user experience for end users.

Challenges and Best Practices

While implementing CIS Benchmarks is critical, some challenges may arise:

• Balancing Security and Usability: Overly restrictive configurations might impact user productivity. Engage stakeholders to find the right balance.


• Keeping Benchmarks Updated: Regularly review updates to the CIS Benchmarks and macOS to ensure your policies remain relevant.


• Training IT Staff: Equip your team with the knowledge to understand and implement CIS recommendations effectively.

Conclusion

CIS Benchmarks provide a robust framework to secure macOS endpoints against evolving cyber threats. By leveraging Jamf Pro, organizations can streamline the implementation and enforcement of these benchmarks, ensuring a secure, compliant, and user-friendly environment. Whether you’re aiming for regulatory compliance or simply enhancing your security posture, the combination of Jamf Pro and CIS Benchmarks is a proven strategy to achieve your goals.

Start today by assessing your current macOS environment and planning your CIS compliance journey with Jamf Pro. With the right tools and approach, securing your Apple estate has never been easier!