The cybersecurity landscape in the European Union has evolved significantly with the introduction of Network and Information Systems 2 (NIS2). As organizations scramble to meet compliance requirements that became mandatory in October 2024, those managing Apple device fleets need targeted strategies to ensure their Mac and iOS ecosystems align with these critical regulations.

Topics

• Understanding NIS2: What It Is and Why It Matters
• The Apple Fleet Challenge
• Best Practices for NIS2 Compliance with Jamf Solutions
• Implementation Checklist for NIS2 Readiness
• Beyond Technology: The Governance Imperative
• Conclusion
• References and Sources

Understanding NIS2: What It Is and Why It Matters

NIS2 establishes a unified legal framework to uphold cybersecurity in 18 critical sectors across the EU. NIS2 represents a significant expansion from its predecessor, covering more sectors and introducing stricter requirements for cybersecurity risk management.

By October 17, 2024, Member States must adopt and publish the measures necessary to comply with NIS 2. They shall apply those measures from October 18, 2024. This means that compliance is no longer optional; it’s a legal requirement that organizations must actively implement and maintain.

NIS2 impacts organizations across various critical sectors, including energy, transport, banking, health, digital infrastructure, and public administration. For companies operating in these sectors, NIS2 compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about building resilient cybersecurity frameworks that protect critical infrastructure and services that citizens depend on daily.

Key NIS2 requirements include:

• Comprehensive risk management measures
• Incident reporting within 24 hours
• Supply chain security
• Regular cybersecurity assessments
• Business continuity planning
• Staff training and awareness programs

NIS2 Implementation Reality: Country-by-Country Status

Despite the October 17, 2024 deadline for transposition into national law, implementation across EU member states has been uneven. As of September 2025, only 16 EU and EEA countries have adopted national laws that fully transpose the NIS2 requirements⁶, creating a complex compliance landscape for multinational organizations.

Significantly Delayed Implementations:

• 🇩🇪 Germany: Expected implementation in fall/winter 2025, potentially making it the last European country to implement NIS2 nationally⁷
• 🇳🇱 Netherlands: Full implementation not expected until summer/autumn 2025⁸
• 🇸🇪 Sweden: Implementation timeline pushed to summer/autumn 2025
• 🇦🇹 Austria: Among countries facing enforcement action for non-compliance, implementation expected summer/autumn 2025

Expected Q1-Q2 2025 Implementation: Countries including Finland, Poland, Slovenia, and Cyprus have “justified hopes” of implementation in the first or second quarter of 2025⁹.

European Commission Enforcement: On May 7, 2025, the European Commission initiated enforcement procedures against eight member states (Hungary, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Finland, and Sweden) for failing to notify full transposition of NIS2¹⁰.

This fragmented implementation timeline creates challenges for organizations operating across multiple European countries, as they must navigate different national requirements and enforcement schedules while maintaining consistent cybersecurity standards across their operations.

The Apple Fleet Challenge

Apple devices present unique opportunities and challenges in the NIS2 compliance landscape. While macOS and iOS are generally considered secure platforms, meeting regulatory requirements requires more than relying on built-in security features. Organizations need comprehensive device management, monitoring, and compliance reporting capabilities that can demonstrate adherence to NIS2 requirements.

This is where Jamf’s ecosystem of solutions, Jamf Pro, Jamf Protect, and Jamf Connect, becomes invaluable for creating a compliant Apple environment.

Best Practices for NIS2 Compliance with Jamf Solutions

1. Asset Management & Inventory Excellence

NIS2 demands that organizations know all their assets, configurations, and vulnerabilities. This foundational requirement maps directly to effective mobile device management practices.

Jamf Pro Implementation:

• Maintain real-time device inventory of all Mac and iOS devices
• Implement device tagging by business criticality (finance, engineering, operations)
• Create automated Smart Groups for unpatched or non-compliant machines
• Generate comprehensive asset reports that include device locations, users, and security status

This approach directly satisfies NIS2 Articles 21 and 23, which focus on risk management and reporting obligations. Having complete visibility into your Apple fleet ensures that all devices in scope are properly identified and managed.

2. Security Baseline Enforcement

NIS2 requires organizations to enforce technical security and risk management measures across their infrastructure. For Apple fleets, this means implementing consistent security baselines across all devices.

Jamf Protect and Pro Integration:

• Apply CIS (Center for Internet Security) Benchmarks for macOS through Jamf Pro Compliance Benchmarks
• Implement, for example, CIS Apple macOS 15.0 Sequoia v1.0.0 benchmarks with over 80 security rules¹¹
• Deploy configuration profiles via Jamf Pro to enforce critical security settings:
  • Full disk encryption (FileVault) on all Macs
  • Secure Wi-Fi and VPN configurations
  • Automated screen lock timers and strong password policies
  • Firewall activation and proper configuration
• Monitor compliance deviations through Jamf Protect’s comprehensive dashboard

These measures directly align with NIS2 Annex I requirements for technical risk management measures, providing auditable evidence of security control implementation. For organizations running the latest macOS Sequoia (15.x), CIS Level 1 benchmarks provide a comprehensive set of over 80 rules that establish a strong security foundation.

3. Proactive Patch and Vulnerability Management

Timely patching represents one of the most critical aspects of NIS2 compliance. Organizations must demonstrate not just that patches are available, but that they’re systematically deployed across the fleet.

Automated Jamf Strategy:

• Implement Jamf Pro patch management policies for rapid deployment of macOS and application updates
• Configure Smart Groups that automatically identify and target devices running outdated operating systems or applications
• Deploy Jamf Protect threat telemetry to detect potential vulnerabilities before they’re exploited
• Create automated workflows that alert administrators to critical security updates

This comprehensive approach meets Article 21’s risk management requirements and provides the documentation necessary to demonstrate proactive vulnerability management to regulators.

4. Advanced Threat Detection and Incident Response

NIS2’s 24-hour incident reporting requirement means organizations need robust detection and response capabilities⁵. Traditional antivirus solutions aren’t sufficient for meeting these regulatory demands.

Jamf Protect Integration Strategy:

• Forward Jamf Protect telemetry to Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) or Extended Detection and Response (XDR) platforms like Microsoft Sentinel, Google Chronicle, or Splunk
• Configure real-time alerts for critical security events including unauthorized USB insertions, privilege escalations, and malware detection
• Implement behavioral detection capabilities to identify execution of malicious binaries or suspicious user activities
• Automate response workflows using Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) tools to isolate or remotely wipe compromised devices

This integrated approach supports NIS2 Articles 23-24, which outline incident reporting and response obligations, ensuring organizations can detect, respond to, and report security incidents within regulatory timeframes.

5. Identity and Access Management Excellence

Strong authentication and role-based access control are fundamental NIS2 requirements. Apple devices, when properly configured, can serve as secure endpoints in a comprehensive identity management strategy.

Jamf Connect and Pro Implementation:

• Integrate Jamf Pro with Identity Providers (IdPs) such as Microsoft Entra ID, Okta, or Google Workspace for conditional access policies
• Require multi-factor authentication for both device login and administrative console access
• Deploy Jamf Connect for passwordless macOS login tied to corporate identity providers
• Implement least privilege principles for Jamf administrators through role-based access controls
• Create conditional access policies that consider device compliance status before granting access to critical resources

These measures help organizations meet Article 21’s identity and access control requirements while creating a seamless user experience across the Apple ecosystem.

6. Comprehensive Logging and Continuous Monitoring

NIS2 requires continuous monitoring and comprehensive audit logging capabilities. Organizations must be able to demonstrate ongoing security oversight and provide detailed logs during regulatory audits.

Jamf Ecosystem Logging Strategy:

• Enable comprehensive Jamf Protect telemetry and integrate with SIEM platforms
• Forward Jamf Pro MDM command logs and device compliance reports to centralized log storage solutions
• Implement automated compliance reporting that demonstrates ongoing adherence to security policies
• Create dashboards that provide real-time visibility into fleet security status
• Establish log retention policies that meet regulatory requirements

This comprehensive logging approach maps directly to NIS2 Annex I requirements for continuous monitoring and provides the audit trail necessary for regulatory compliance demonstrations.

7. Security Awareness and Policy Enforcement

NIS2 emphasizes the human element of cybersecurity, requiring comprehensive staff training and clear policy enforcement mechanisms.

Jamf-Enabled Training Programs:

• Use Jamf Pro’s Self Service portal to distribute security training materials, guidelines, and resources
• Deploy phishing simulation tools and security awareness applications through centralized app distribution
• Implement automated policy reminders that prompt users when security settings need attention
• Generate compliance dashboards that help IT and security teams track policy adherence across the organization
• Create user-friendly security workflows that make compliance easier rather than more burdensome

This approach reinforces NIS2 Article 20 requirements for training and governance while creating a culture of security awareness throughout the organization.

8. Business Continuity and Operational Resilience

NIS2 requires organizations to ensure operational continuity following security incidents. Apple devices, when properly managed, can support rapid recovery and restoration processes.

Jamf-Powered Resilience Strategy:

• Leverage Jamf Pro deployment policies for rapid device reprovisioning following security incidents
• Implement Apple’s Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) for secure and efficient device re-enrollment
• Store baseline security configurations as code within Jamf to enable quick restoration of compliant device setups
• Create automated backup and restoration workflows for critical device configurations
• Develop incident response playbooks that include device isolation, data protection, and rapid recovery procedures

These capabilities support Article 21’s resilience and continuity planning requirements while minimizing business disruption during security incidents.

Implementation Checklist for NIS2 Readiness

To ensure comprehensive NIS2 compliance with your Apple fleet, organizations should systematically address the following areas:

Foundation Requirements:

• Establish real-time inventory management in Jamf Pro
• Apply CIS security baselines through Jamf Protect
• Implement automated patching and vulnerability remediation processes
• Enable comprehensive logging with Protect-to-SIEM integration

Advanced Security Measures:

• Configure incident response workflows including automated alerts, device isolation, and remote wipe capabilities
• Enforce multi-factor authentication and identity provider integration through Jamf Connect
• Implement least privilege access controls for Jamf administrative roles
• Establish comprehensive audit logging and compliance reporting capabilities

Governance and Documentation:

• Create policy documentation that maps Jamf controls to NIS2 requirements
• Establish regular compliance assessment and reporting procedures
• Implement staff training programs delivered through Jamf Self Service
• Develop incident response procedures that include regulatory reporting requirements

Beyond Technology: The Governance Imperative

While Jamf solutions provide the technical foundation for NIS2 compliance, regulatory success requires more than just implementing security tools. NIS2 compliance demands demonstrable governance models that show ongoing commitment to cybersecurity excellence.

Organizations must be prepared to show regulators not just that security policies exist on paper, but that they’re actively enforced, monitored, and continuously improved. Jamf’s comprehensive reporting capabilities provide the evidence base necessary to demonstrate this ongoing commitment to cybersecurity governance.

The integration of Jamf Pro, Protect, and Connect creates a powerful ecosystem that not only meets NIS2’s technical requirements but also provides the documentation and audit trails that regulatory compliance demands. By implementing these solutions strategically, organizations can transform NIS2 compliance from a regulatory burden into a competitive advantage that demonstrates their commitment to protecting critical infrastructure and services.

Conclusion

NIS2 represents a fundamental shift in how the European Union approaches cybersecurity regulation, though implementation timelines vary significantly across member states. For organizations managing Apple device fleets, compliance requires a comprehensive approach that combines advanced technical controls with robust governance processes, regardless of their specific country’s implementation schedule.

Jamf’s ecosystem of solutions provides the technical foundation necessary for NIS2 compliance, but success requires strategic implementation, ongoing monitoring, and continuous improvement. Organizations operating across multiple European countries should implement NIS2-aligned security measures proactively, as this approach ensures compliance regardless of varying national implementation timelines while building more resilient cybersecurity frameworks.

While some countries like Germany may not fully implement NIS2 until late 2025, organizations that take a proactive approach using Jamf solutions will not only meet regulatory requirements when they come into effect but also build stronger, more secure, and manageable Apple environments that support long-term business objectives. The fragmented implementation landscape makes early preparation even more critical for maintaining consistent security standards across European operations.

References and Sources

¹ European Commission. (2024). NIS2 Directive: securing network and information systems. Shaping Europe’s digital future. https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/nis2-directive

² EUR-Lex. (2022). Cybersecurity of network and information systems. European Union. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=legissum:4637829

³ EUR-Lex. (2022). Directive (EU) 2022/2555 of the European Parliament and of the Council. Official Journal of the European Union. https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555/oj/eng

⁴ CIS Apple macOS Benchmarks. https://www.cisecurity.org/benchmark/apple_os

⁵ The NIS 2 Directive. (2024). Updates, Compliance, Training. https://www.nis-2-directive.com/

⁶ European Law Blog. (2025). NIS2 Implementation Status Across EU Member States. https://europeanlawblog.eu/

⁷ Legal Tribune Online. (2025). Germany’s Delayed NIS2 Implementation Timeline. https://www.lto.de/

⁸ European Commission. (2025). Member State Implementation Status Report. https://ec.europa.eu/

⁹ Compliance and Risk Management. (2025). NIS2 Country Implementation Tracker. https://www.compliance-magazin.de/

¹⁰ European Commission. (2025). Commission takes action against Member States for non-transposition of NIS2. Press Release. https://ec.europa.eu/

¹¹ Tenable. (2024). CIS Apple macOS 15.0 Sequoia v1.0.0 L2. Security Audit Framework. https://www.tenable.com/audits/CIS_Apple_macOS_15.0_Sequoia_v1.0.0_L2

Additional Resources

• Official NIS2 Directive Text: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2022/2555/2022-12-27/eng
• Jamf CIS Benchmarks for macOS Sierra: https://github.com/jamf/CIS-for-macOS-Sierra-CP
• Jamf CIS Benchmarks for macOS High Sierra: https://github.com/jamf/CIS-for-macOS-High-Sierra-CP
• Jamf macOS Security Checklist: https://www.jamf.com/resources/white-papers/macos-security-checklist/
• NIS2 Directive Summary: https://advisera.com/nis2/