Cyber Resilience Network: Maximising Existing Expertise

The Cyber Resilience Network (known as CWN in Dutch) brings together government and industry to improve the speed at which digital threats are detected and addressed. At its heart are collaboration, knowledge sharing, and trust. 

Belle Webster and Mieke van Ulden from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) are actively involved in designing and developing the blueprint for the Cyber Resilience Network. “It’s a further development of the National Coverage System. We’re working to build a robust network where collaboration is key,” says van Ulden. 

NCSC to coordinate 

Webster: “The CWN could be seen as the backbone of digital security collaboration. The government and industry collaborate to establish shared priorities. At the NCSC, we’ve drawn up a blueprint for this, in line with our mandate under the Dutch Cybersecurity Strategy, and we’re now taking on the role of coordinator. We bring stakeholders together and actively encourage knowledge sharing. It’s no longer just about exchanging information. The plan offers clear guidance, with defined functions and network maps to support this effort.” 

Collaboration is Key 

Why are collaboration and stronger connections so vital? Webster explains: “Digital threats don’t stop at the boundaries of a single organisation. It’s only by sharing knowledge and experiences that we can detect and respond to attacks more quickly. Every organisation holds a piece of the puzzle. For the government, this also means we must not only strengthen our own digital resilience but demonstrate to citizens and businesses that we have things firmly under control.” 

Each organisation helps make a difference 

All contributors help strengthen the network. Van Ulden: “Every organisation brings something unique to the table, which doesn’t always require a big budget or a large team. In fact, smaller organisations with specialised expertise can be especially valuable. This approach allows us to make the most of the knowledge that’s already out there. In a broader network, incidents are reported more quickly, which builds trust and enables faster recovery using up-to-date information.” 

Putting practical tools first 

How does the network support its government members? Webster explains: “It’s important to keep things as practical as possible, with resources that help with day-to-day work. This includes training courses, checklists, and an online community where colleagues can ask questions. That way, the network isn’t just an abstract idea or something discussed in The Hague, it becomes something that genuinely supports people in their everyday roles.” 

For the entire Kingdom 

The network is intentionally looking beyond the Netherlands. Webster explains: “Given our direct connections through ports, energy, and financial flows, it is only logical to include the Caribbean part of the Kingdom. We’re doing this step by step, through partnerships and training. In this way, we’re making knowledge and resources available across the entire Kingdom.”  

Join the network 

Webster concludes with an invitation to join the network: “The Cyber Resilience Network is not a temporary project or programme, but a shared responsibility. Join us and get involved. The blueprint is ready; now it’s time to put it into action. We shouldn’t forget that the Netherlands has already achieved a great deal. The Netherlands has built stronger collaboration and trust than many other countries. The CWN builds on this foundation, strengthening the digital security of the entire Kingdom of the Netherlands.”