Can a BES Cyber System be defined as a grouping of critical cyber assets?

The definition of a Bulk Electric System (BES) Cyber System indeed includes a grouping of critical cyber assets. A BES Cyber System refers to the collection of components, including hardware, software, and communications, that support the reliable operation of the BES. This system typically encompasses critical cyber assets that are essential to its functionality and security, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these assets in maintaining the integrity and reliability of the electric power sector.

In the context of NERC standards, the identification and classification of critical cyber assets are vital because they help ensure that proper security measures are in place to protect these systems from cyber threats. This approach to safeguarding cyber assets is a fundamental part of the compliance and risk management framework in the electric utility industry, underlining the importance of their protection to the overall health of the power grid.