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 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

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.

Step 1: Install PowerBI Desktop

If you haven't already, you'll need to download and install PowerBI Desktop to use this 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 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. 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 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. 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 as a PowerBI Desktop report file (.pbix).

Step 7: Celebrate

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