## 5 Results and Use Case
### SOC Use Case Lifecycle--Implementation and Challenges
#### 5.2.1 Use Cases Implementation Challenges  
* Integration Complexity: The onboarding and integration of log sources, along with the harmonization of diverse technologies with the SIEM, represent significant challenges in the lifecycle of use cases. While some technologies may integrate seamlessly within the SOC environment, others demand thorough preparation. This phase requires a clear definition of specific needs and objectives, as well as the careful allocation of resources to ensure successful integration [33];
* Lack of Visibility: Insufficient visibility and blind spots within the network pose significant challenges for SOC operations and the implementation of SOC use cases. This lack of visibility often stems from one or more of the following root causes: \[\begin{array}{ll}\circ&\text{Gaps in the deployment of device products and security solutions in certain areas of the network;}\\ \circ&\text{Existing device products are not onboard;}\\ \circ&\text{The logging standards are poorly defined and inconsistently enforced across log sources, requiring a thorough evaluation and improvement;}\\ \circ&\text{Events generated by the device product are not being correctly processed by one of the SIEM components.}\end{array}\]
* Data Overload: SOCs often deal with a massive volume of data, which may generate a lot of alerts if the use case logic is poorly defined or not finely tuned. This data overload can hinder analysts' ability to prioritize and investigate alerts effectively, increasing the risk of missing critical threats and true positives. It is about acquiring a minimal amount of correct data to achieve your goals rather than acquiring as much random data as you can [34].  
Figure 5: SOC use case implementation.  
Process Challenges
* Lack of Standardization: The absence of standardized processes and playbooks for incident response can lead to inconsistent handling of incidents, reducing the overall effectiveness of the Security Operations Center (SOC). Implementing a standardized use case process ensures that security measures are aligned with a well-defined understanding of potential threats. This approach not only promotes consistency but also allows for continuous refinement to address the evolving nature of cyber risks effectively;
* Adaptation to Evolving Threats: Cyber threats are continually evolving, requiring SOCs to constantly update their processes and tactics to keep pace. The use cases need to be regularly reviewed and updated based on new threats, vulnerabilities, and lessons learned from past incidents. This ensures that the SOC remains adaptive and responsive to the evolving threat landscape;
* Collaboration and Communication: Achieving effective communication and collaboration within the SOC team, as well as with other organizational units, poses a significant challenge. This challenge can impact the implementation and tracking of the efficiency of use cases. Ensuring seamless interaction across teams is crucial for the successful deployment of security measures and the continuous monitoring and improvement of their effectiveness.  
Human Factor Challenges
* Skills Shortage: There is a well-documented shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, making it difficult to staff SOCs with experienced analysts. This gap in expertise can hinder the SOC's ability to effectively detect, respond to, and mitigate security threats;
* Training and Knowledge Sharing: Ensuring that SOC analysts remain up to date with the latest cybersecurity threats, tactics, and technologies necessitates ongoing training and active knowledge sharing. While essential for maintaining a high level of expertise, this process can be resource-intensive, requiring considerable commitment in terms of time, effort, and resources to keep the team fully prepared for emerging security challenges