Guides
What you actually need to know about fractional CISO services.
Evergreen guides for buyers evaluating fractional CISO and vCISO services — definitions, comparisons, and industry playbooks. Written by Nick Shevelyov from 30+ years of operator experience, including 15 years as Chief Security Officer at Silicon Valley Bank.
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Definition · 8 min read
What Is a Fractional CISO?
The role explained: what a fractional CISO actually does, when companies hire one, and how the work breaks down across strategy, board reporting, incident response, and vendor management.
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Comparison · 6 min read
vCISO vs Fractional CISO: What's the Difference?
Are these the same thing? Mostly yes. Here's where the terms diverge in practice, why the label is mostly marketing, and the dimensions that actually matter when choosing a firm.
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Buyer's Guide · 9 min read
How to Choose a Fractional CISO
A working framework for hiring: the five questions that distinguish operators from advisors, six red flags to watch for, the contract terms that matter, and how to evaluate firm vs. individual operators.
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Industry Guide · 8 min read
Fractional CISO for Fintech and SaaS
Fintech security has its own playbook — SOC 2 Type II, GLBA, NYDFS Part 500, banking partner reviews, sophisticated investor diligence. Here's what to look for and the SVB-alumni angle that's hard to replicate.
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Pricing Guide · 7 min read
Virtual CISO Cost: What to Expect in 2026
Realistic budgeting framework: $8K-$25K/mo for retained engagements, what drives the price, what's included vs billed extra, stage-by-stage budget guidance, and the 5 pricing red flags to avoid.
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