> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.securemetrics.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.securemetrics.io/cis-controls-reporting/getting-started.md).

# Getting Started

The journey to streamlining your CIS Critical Security Controls assessments with
\
SecureMetrics starts here. This section is your roadmap to getting the CIS Critical Security
\
Controls PowerBI Template up and running. Whether you are a novice at PowerBI or a
\
seasoned expert, we have made sure that the setup process is as straightforward as
\
possible.

Our aim is to get you operational with minimal fuss, so you can focus on what you do
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best—providing top-notch cybersecurity assessments. Let's get started!

## System Requirements

To use the CIS Critical Security Controls PowerBI Template effectively, you'll need:

* PowerBI Desktop
  * Download PowerBI Desktop here
* Windows Operating System
  * PowerBI Desktop is only compatible with Windows. Mac users will need to virtualize Windows.
* Microsoft Excel
  * Used to manage the data import file
  * If you do not have access to Microsoft Excel, you can use software such as Google Sheets that can export .xlsx files

## Template Setup

{% hint style="info" %}
The CIS Controls Reporting Suite contains both a PowerBI Dashboard Template as well as a PowerBI Slide Deck Template. The process for both of these templates is identical. 
{% endhint %}

### Step 1: Install PowerBI Desktop

If you haven't already, you'll need to download and install PowerBI Desktop to use this
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template. Download PowerBI Desktop here.

### Step 2: Prepare the Excel Import File

Before opening the PowerBI template, make sure you've filled out the accompanying Excel
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import file with the assessment data. This data will be used to populate the dashboard or slide deck.

### Step 3: Open the PowerBI Template

Locate the PowerBI template file (.pbit) that you received from Securemetrics.
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Double-click to open it with PowerBI Desktop.

### Step 4: 

Upon opening the template, you will be prompted to enter the full file path to the Excel
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import file. This is the location where your filled-out Excel file is saved on your computer.

For example:

```
C:\Users\YourName\Documents\SecureMetrics CIS Critical Security Controls Data
Import.xlsx
```

### Step 5: Data Loading and Report Population

After providing the path to the Excel import file, PowerBI will automatically load the data.
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Your dashboard will populate based on this data.

### Step 6: Save Your Assessment

To save this specific assessment, go to File > Save As in PowerBI Desktop and save the file
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as a PowerBI Desktop report file (.pbix).

### Step 7: Celebrate

Congratulations, your CIS Critical Security Controls PowerBI Template is now set up and
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ready to use!