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No Security Operations Analyst Required
Technology Category
- Cybersecurity & Privacy - Network Security
- Cybersecurity & Privacy - Security Compliance
Applicable Industries
- Cities & Municipalities
Applicable Functions
- Business Operation
- Facility Management
Use Cases
- Intrusion Detection Systems
Services
- System Integration
- Training
The Challenge
When Daniel Santiago first started at the City of Lewiston, he was using Spiceworks’ free software to monitor the network and detect threats. However, the limitations of the free software became apparent when Santiago realized the need for a more robust security solution. The city network required constant monitoring and protection, especially for public Wi-Fi spots and online bill pay services. Santiago and his team, being IT generalists, lacked the time and training to effectively use advanced security tools like Splunk, which required extensive log management and correlation. The high cost of hiring a security operations center analyst and the additional training required for these tools further complicated the situation.
About The Customer
The City of Lewiston, founded in 1861, is the second-largest city in northern Idaho and the ninth largest in the state, with a population of 31,894 as of 2010. The city’s official website provides extensive information on city departments, upcoming events, and visitor questions. The IT department, consisting of five full-time employees, is responsible for the security of the city’s network, including public Wi-Fi spots and online bill pay services for municipal services like water and garbage. Daniel Santiago, the System Administrator, plays a crucial role in ensuring the network's security.
The Solution
After using AlienVault’s free threat alert tool integrated with Spiceworks, Santiago began considering a paid security product with more functionality. He evaluated several SIEM solutions, including Splunk, but found them too complex and time-consuming for his team. The need for a security operations center analyst to manage these tools was a significant drawback. Santiago and his team eventually chose AlienVault for its ease of use and comprehensive security features. AlienVault’s solution allowed them to monitor and secure their network without the need for additional staff or extensive training. The product’s ability to detect and block malicious IPs, along with its user-friendly interface, made it an ideal choice for the City of Lewiston.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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