The Problem: SecOps and IT, Operating in Silos
For the purposes of this article, let’s use a hypothetical example.
Shane is a seasoned SecOps professional. Shane’s team, though equipped with tools like Qualys for vulnerability scanning, is small—only six people. Each person focuses on a specific role, from red teaming to vulnerability patching. They constantly receive alerts, not only from Qualys but also from outside entities and threat intelligence sources. In theory, this setup should allow them to address risks proactively, but in reality, they are often stretched too thin, putting out fires rather than implementing a strategic proactive approach to security.
“Patching is pretty abysmal,” Shane admits. And here lies a core issue: while Shane’s team can identify critical vulnerabilities, implementing those patches falls to IT—a separate team with its own priorities and workload. Communication often means manually creating tickets, hoping IT will prioritize them. As Shane puts it, “We’re constantly pushing for things to be fixed, but priorities differ.”
Why the Disconnect Matters
The delay in implementing patches has real consequences. Research shows that while vulnerabilities may take up to two months to be patched, attackers typically exploit them within three weeks. Without quick, seamless action, even well-intentioned vulnerability management efforts can fall short.
For organizations like Shane’s, where SecOps and IT are siloed, this can mean vulnerabilities go unaddressed. Shane’s team has even discussed launching simulated attacks on known vulnerabilities within the organization—an effort to highlight risk to IT and gain buy-in for faster action. While this tactic can increase urgency, it’s a reactive approach to a problem that calls for a more sustainable, integrated solution.
Solutions to Close the SecOps-IT Gap
To bridge this gap, organizations must rethink how SecOps and IT interact, both in terms of processes and tools. Here are some strategies for fostering collaboration and efficiency in vulnerability management:
1. Unified Platforms for Real-Time Visibility
A single platform that provides continuous, real-time visibility across assets can empower both teams. Instead of depending on periodic, manual scans, real-time monitoring allows SecOps to detect vulnerabilities instantly and gives IT direct access to the data they need to act. This approach eliminates dependency on ticket systems and streamlines the response process.
2. Automation in Patch Management
Automation is a powerful tool for reducing manual work and improving patch response times. Automated patch management can allow IT to schedule patches based on priority, reduce the risk of missing critical updates, and even apply patches during off-hours. By setting up automated workflows, SecOps can prioritize vulnerabilities while giving IT the flexibility to implement fixes without constant oversight.
3. Risk-Based Prioritization
Not all vulnerabilities carry equal risk, and prioritizing them based on actual threat context can prevent teams from feeling overwhelmed by sheer volume. Tools that assess vulnerabilities based on factors like exposure, exploitability, and potential impact on specific systems can help both SecOps and IT focus on addressing the most critical risks first.
4. Collaborative Reporting and Dashboards
A common complaint among SecOps professionals is the difficulty in communicating progress to leadership. Integrated dashboards that track vulnerabilities, patch statuses, and risk levels over time can provide a clear, shared view for both IT and SecOps, as well as for leadership. This visibility not only improves accountability but also offers leadership an ongoing assessment of security posture, making it easier to support budget and resource requests.
Building a Sustainable Collaboration
To break down silos between SecOps and IT, organizations need to adopt tools and processes that encourage constant, seamless collaboration. With the right setup, security becomes a shared responsibility, allowing both teams to operate efficiently without sacrificing other critical tasks. As Shane's team moves toward a more unified approach, they find that the right combination of automation, visibility, and prioritization can transform vulnerability management from a scramble into a structured, collaborative effort.
Final Thoughts
The disconnect between SecOps and IT is more than just a workflow issue; it’s a potential security risk. By focusing on collaboration and implementing tools that provide real-time, shared visibility, organizations can reduce the vulnerability response gap. The result? A stronger, more adaptive team capable of protecting the organization against today’s cyber threats.