INTRODUCTION. This article provides a compreÂhensive analysis of the regulatory frameworks governÂing the information technology (IT) sector in both Russia and Sweden and encompasses a comparative assessment of key legal instruments, concepts, and regulatory approaches, including the responsibility for cybercrimes, licensing procedures, standardization practices, and the safety of critical informational inÂfrastructure. Additionally, this article examines the roles and functions of major governing authorities in both countries.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The article is based on relevant legal acts of Russia and Sweden. While there are certain specific laws focused entirely on the informational technologies, some provisions can be found in other types of legal documents (for example criminal codes or governmental regulations). EmployÂing a comparative approach, the study delineates the scope and authority of state institutions involved in the IT sphere.RESEARCH RESULTS. Both Russian and Sweden exhibit similarities when it comes to definition of esÂsential concepts such as critical infrastructure, reflect shared concerns regarding for example security issues. Main laws in the area of information technology conÂtain a spectrum of key terms, including but not limited to information and communication network / elecÂtronic communication network, information system operator, and information protection / network and information system security. Although the list of key definitions may appear quite similar, the Swedish legÂislation tends to offer broader definitions with the inÂtention of encompassing larger domains within IT technologies, while the Russian legislators focus on more specific terms. However, while Sweden aligns closely with European Union (EU) regulatory frameÂwork, Russia adopts a more expansive approach, adÂdressing emerging technological challenges such as AI. In conclusion, achieving effective IT regulation necesÂsitates finding a balance between international conÂsistency and national adaptability to ensure strong cybersecurity, foster innovation, and maintain regulaÂtory flexibility in a dynamic digital environment.DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS. Sweden’s reÂliance on implementing EU regulations has its benefits such as harmonisation, interoperability, adopting the internationally recognised practices, easier market acÂcess, etc. However, this approach may limit the counÂtry's ability to meet its specific needs and may mean additional administrative burdens associated with compliance with EU directives. Moreover, changes in EU regulations could lead to a necessity to update doÂmestic laws, potentially causing regulatory vacuum or legal collisions, especially in such sphere as the IT secÂtor. Nowadays, when for example the AI and its risks are on the daily agenda one can not look away and wait for the international community to agree on the applicable regulation.