Enhancing Security and Transforming Vulnerability Management with Rapid7

Fragmented Vulnerability Management

Before adopting Rapid7’s solution, the USF security team lacked a comprehensive tool for capturing vulnerability data across their environment and were relying on a scanner that was inadequate for their needs. With thousands of machines and systems, the fragmented vulnerability management process, combined with an outdated scanner, made managing vulnerabilities a complex task. This lack of a unified tool led to significant difficulties in capturing vulnerability data, communicating risk to senior leadership, and maintaining an effective security posture. 

Security Concerns

The security situation was exacerbated by a series of internal observations with their cybersecurity operations that underscored the urgent need for an upgraded security solution. This realization helped prioritize funding to upgrade USF’s overall security stack. The university faced challenges with unmonitored IoT devices, outdated server software, and siloed access within the organization. These issues not only threatened data security but also impeded USF’s ability to prioritize and manage remediation efforts effectively.

Rebuild Vulnerability Management Program

Guillette acknowledged the limitations in their security operations and indicated his team’s desire to obtain an enterprise vulnerability management solution to completely rebuild their vulnerability management program. He pointed out that they required a solution that not only identifies vulnerabilities but also integrates seamlessly with their operations, provides real-time insights, and scales with their evolving needs. It was clear that they needed to invest in a system that would support their long-term security goals and help them stay ahead of emerging threats.

Implementing InsightVM

USF implemented Rapid7’s InsightVM and engaged a Technical Account Manager to address their security challenges. Rapid7’s InsightVM provided the university with a comprehensive vulnerability management tool that allowed for efficient scanning and detailed reporting, which ultimately provided a timely and actionable response to any security challenges they faced.

Implementation Guidance and Support

Additionally, the Technical Account Manager played a pivotal role in guiding USF through the implementation, helping to customize the solution to fit their specific needs and overcoming any hurdles that arose during the transition. “The support we received from Rapid7 was patient and exceptional in finding what worked for us,” Guillette said. This support was instrumental in preventing implementation challenges and ensuring a smooth transition.

Seamless Integration

One of the key benefits of InsightVM was its ability to seamlessly integrate with USF's existing business processes, including JIRA for project management. 

This capability enabled USF to translate vulnerability data into actionable tasks and integrate them into broader business processes. The integration with existing project management tools, such as JIRA, was expressed to be crucial for USF in streamlining remediation efforts and ensuring that security measures were prioritized according to their risk levels.