In security policy frameworks, which element includes suggestions that are not mandatory?

The correct answer is guidelines. In the context of security policy frameworks, guidelines serve as recommendations or best practices for implementing security measures. They provide suggestions on how to achieve certain security objectives, but they do not impose mandatory requirements.

This flexibility allows organizations to adapt the guidance based on their specific circumstances, resources, and risk assessments. Guidelines are particularly useful in environments where there is a need for custom solutions or where a one-size-fits-all approach is inappropriate.

Standards, on the other hand, outline specific requirements that must be met within the organization, setting a baseline for security measures. Policies define the overall security objectives and rules that are binding, establishing the organization's stance on various security issues. Procedures detail step-by-step instructions on how to implement the policies and comply with the standards, and these are also typically mandated practices.