NIS2: Key Takeaways for Companies That Are Not Critical or Essential

NIS2 is not only for the big players

When people hear about NIS2, they often think it only applies to major organizations like hospitals, telecom providers, or energy companies. While it is true that NIS2 formally targets "essential" and "important" sectors, its influence is much broader.

Even if your company is not officially covered by NIS2, it still signals a major shift in what good cybersecurity looks like across Europe.

Let’s look at why NIS2 matters and what you can take away from it.

🛡️ NIS2 raises the bar for cybersecurity

The goal of NIS2 is to make Europe's digital infrastructure more secure and resilient.

Key focus areas include:

• Stronger cybersecurity risk management
• Better incident response plans
• Clear responsibility for cybersecurity at the executive level
• More attention to supply chain security (your vendors and service providers)

These are good practices for any business, not just those legally required to follow NIS2.

⚡ Why it matters even if you are not obligated

Regulators, partners, and customers are increasingly expecting higher security standards from ... everyone.

Even if your company is too small or outside critical sectors:

• You might work with a larger company that demands NIS2-level security from its suppliers.
• You could be audited as part of someone else's supply chain.
• Customers could ask you about your cybersecurity measures before signing contracts.

Preparing now means you are future-proofing your business.

📋 Key steps you can take today

You do not need a huge budget to start aligning with NIS2 ideas. Here are practical steps:

• Map your key IT assets and critical data
• Strengthen basic cybersecurity hygiene (passwords, updates, backups)
• Assign clear internal responsibility for cybersecurity
• Know who your critical vendors are and check their security posture
• Have a simple plan for how to respond to a security incident

Starting small is better than doing nothing.

🛠️ How ToolHive helps

ToolHive helps you map your digital landscape:

• Track which tools and vendors handle critical information
• Record important contracts and security commitments
• Assign tasks and responsibilities for improvements
• Keep a living record of your efforts for future audits or reviews

Structured documentation is a big part of both NIS2 preparation and general good security management.

🚀 Stay ahead without the stress

NIS2 is raising expectations across Europe, but that is not a reason to panic.

It is a reason to take small, smart steps toward better security practices.

Even if you are not officially under NIS2, being proactive strengthens your business, protects your customers, and shows you are serious about cybersecurity.

Want to simplify how you manage vendors, security, and compliance? Start your free trial of ToolHive today and build a stronger foundation for your business.