How to Transform Your Security With Modern Solutions for Traditional SIEM

The security technology marketplace is rapidly evolving, with major players such as Palo Alto Networks, Microsoft and CrowdStrike driving significant changes in how security information is managed and analyzed. Platforms are reshaping the landscape, challenging traditional security information and event management (SIEM) ingest-based pricing models.

It is particularly crucial for government agencies tasked with safeguarding sensitive information to pay close attention to these changes as they will need to evaluate their strategies to enhance security and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

SIEM software and management carve out up to 25% of the operating budget for many security operations center (SOC) teams. It’s a significant investment experiencing a fundamental financial model change in 2024. This is why it’s critical for government entities to assess the potential benefits of integrated platforms that offer more cost-effective log ingestion solutions.

Major log sources include:

• NextGen Firewall/IDS/IPS (20% to 40%)
• EDR/XDR (20% to 35%)
• VPN/SASE (15% to 25%)
• Active Directory/IAM (15% to 25%)

With a small number of log sources contributing to more than 70% of log ingest, what does this mean for the expanding number of platform plays and the shrinking number of standalone SIEM solutions?

Traditionally, SIEM solutions have been indispensable for aggregating and analyzing security data. However, the financial implications of log ingestion — especially from high-volume sources like EDR and NextGen Firewalls — have become a key concern. As integrated solutions gain momentum, they challenge legacy models. Modern platforms like Microsoft Sentinel and Palo Alto XSIAM are introducing new paradigms.

Palo Alto Networks Cortex XSIAM integrates Cortex XDR, SIEM and SOAR capabilities into a single platform designed to automate and enhance security operations. XSIAM focuses on autonomous threat detection, investigation and response, using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to process and analyze large volumes of security data in real time. Offering cost-effective log ingestion and leveraging AI to reduce manual workloads, XSIAM challenges the traditional volume-based SIEM pricing models.

Microsoft Sentinel, as part of the Defender/XDR ecosystem, integrates with Microsoft’s cloud, identity and endpoint tools. It offers a unified approach to security data collection and analysis, often including cost-effective or even “free” ingestion of logs from on-platform services. This integration reduces the financial burden of log ingestion and allows agencies to leverage comprehensive datasets for enhanced threat detection.

The integration offered by platforms like Microsoft Sentinel and Palo Alto brings numerous benefits. First, it simplifies security operations by centralizing data collection and analysis onto a single platform. This integration streamlines workflows, making detection and response to threats easier for security teams.

The financial implications are also noteworthy. As traditional SIEM solutions typically charge based on volume, the cost advantages of integrated platforms can be substantial. Organizations that previously faced high costs for aggregating and analyzing logs from multiple sources may find these modern solutions more appealing, given their lower overall cost and comprehensive capabilities. The reduced or lack of cost for log ingestion from integrated services enhances the platform’s value proposition, particularly for agencies managing larger volumes of security data.

The rise of integrated solutions places traditional SIEM vendors under significant pressure. To remain competitive, these vendors may need to adapt by revising their pricing structures, improving integration capabilities, or enhancing their service offerings. The market may increasingly favor platforms that offer inclusive pricing models or deliver additional value through seamless integration.

This trend towards convergence in security technologies highlights a broader shift in the industry. As agencies and organizations in the public sector seek more unified solutions that simplify security management and reduce costs, the distinction between SIEM, XDR, NGFW and SASE solutions continues to blur. This convergence will likely lead to security solutions that address a wider range of needs without the complexity and expense of managing multiple disparate tools.

However, there are reasons to remain on traditional platforms. Established providers often have years of experience and proven effectiveness, offering a sense of value and confidence that newer ones still need to achieve. As a result, many IT teams may stick with traditional systems until more advanced options demonstrate their reliability and maturity. As a bonus, there is still a significant advantage to defense in depth and diversity of security solutions.

Platforms are appealing, but organizations should always view the security landscape from multiple perspectives.

The advent of integrated platform solutions represents a significant shift in the security marketplace. By offering cost-effective or even free log ingestion from their services, these platforms challenge traditional SIEM pricing models and drive the evolution toward more integrated, efficient and affordable security solutions. As the market adapts, agencies can expect further innovations that enhance security management while reducing costs and complexity. CDW Government can assist you in determining the best solution for your needs while ensuring your security and budget are met.

For more information on how CDW Government Managed Services can support your agency’s needs, visit our webpage or call 800-800-4239.