Security Metrics Guide: Everything You Need To Know
There are several surveys that have stated that company’s raised their priorities for computer security for several years now. This then gave way to security metrics. In order to understand what exactly the metrics are, there is a need for one to draw a distinction between measures and metrics. The former generally provides single and timely views about specific and distinct factors. On the other hand, metrics are a resultant when one compares a predetermined baseline of two or more measures taken for a longer period. To generate measures, one can count them while metrics can be derived through analysis. To make this simpler, measures are raw data that are objective and the metrics can either be subjective or objective since they are human interpretations of the data from the measures. This metrics guide will cover the topic of security metrics.
Security metrics like the other metrics should be SMART, which means Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Repeatable and Timely. Security metrics implementation will help one indicate the degree as to which the goals for security - like confidentiality of data – have been met. This will then drive actions that will assist in improving the overall program for security in the company. So why do you need these metrics? One reason is that this is an effective tool that you can use to discern the efficiency and the effectiveness of the different components of your security plans, the protection of a certain system, process or product and the capability of the staff or a single department to address the issues that they are responsible with. In addition to this, one will become aware of the consequences and the risk levels when he does not perform a specific action. If you make a mistake in choosing the proper actions for a certain situation, the metrics will provide guidance for you so that you can prioritize taking
the corrective actions instead.
When it comes to metrics implementation, managers and executives will be able to answer questions concerning whether they are more protected at the present time than before and how they can be compared to other companies in this matter. Many will agree that generation of the right metrics can be quite tough. This is because most of them believe that even though they have managed to escape various attacks in their systems, it is not an indication that they are really secure. It is true that luck plays a vital role here. A security manager will have to focus on looking beyond the record for security incidents in the company to determine the strength. He may look into three of the most critical elements here. These are the asset value, vulnerability and threat.
These three should be measured well in order to search for significant metrics. You should also be able to define the goals and objectives of your metrics programs. From then on, you can decide which among the metrics are useful and should be generated. This way, you will be able to generate strategies that will help you in the metrics implementation process.
