SIEM System: Build In-House or Outsource?

Managed SIEM is a security service that provides all the benefits of SIEM without the burden of managing the technology. SIEM service providers use a team of security experts who handle everything from deployment and configuration to maintenance of the SIEM infrastructure. Managed SIEM providers usually include 24/7 monitoring, alerting, and a basic level of incident response, ensuring that any security issues are promptly addressed.

Managed SIEM services also include additional security features such as threat intelligence and compliance reporting. The benefit of outsourcing to a managed SIEM provider is that it allows your organisation to focus more on core business activities, knowing that your security is taken care of by seasoned professionals.

Managed SIEM services offer several benefits, such as:

1. Expertise: Managed SIEM providers have experienced security analysts who are trained to manage and analyse security-related data, helping to reduce alert fatigue.
2. 24/7 monitoring: SIEM service providers monitor security-related data 24/7, providing organisations with continuous visibility into their security posture.
3. Rapid response: SIEM platforms can contextualise security information on your behalf to reduce false positives and help you quickly respond to genuine security incidents. They’ll provide actionable remediation advice on the steps needed to eliminate threats.
4. Cost savings: Managed SIEM services eliminate the need for organisations to invest in dedicated security personnel and infrastructure.

When deciding between an unmanaged or managed SIEM solution your organisation should consider the following:

1. Resources: Does your organisation have the resources and expertise to deploy a SIEM platform and manage it 24/7 in-house? If not, a managed SIEM service may be a better option, especially if you don’t already have your own SOC team.
2. Budget: Implementing and maintaining a SIEM solution in-house can be expensive. SIEM monitoring services are often a more affordable solution to managing security operations internally, as you are avoiding the overhead of having your own security team and the large investment required to deploy and maintain a SIEM solution.
3. Control: Does your organisation require complete control over SIEM monitoring? If so, an in-house SIEM solution may be the better option, however many managed SIEM providers will still give you access to granular log search capabilities and will work with you to adapt your service to the needs of your business.
4. Scalability: What are the growth ambitions of your business? Managed SIEM solutions are easily scalable, allowing businesses to adjust their security needs and capacity as your environment grows.
5. Compliance: Managed SIEM services can help your business meet compliance requirements, such as PCI DSS, ISO 27001 and HIPAA, by providing continuous security monitoring and reporting. Many vendors will also retain your logs for a certain period of time for compliance purposes.