STIX 2.1 and Beyond: The Essential Role of STIX in CTI Operations

This white paper explores the critical role of STIX 2.1 in modern Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) operations and why it's emerging as the de facto standard for structured threat data exchange. It examines the evolution of STIX, highlights its benefits and limitations, and outlines how organizations can build a STIX-inclusive data model to meet both current and future CTI needs.

By leveraging STIX for CTI orchestration and expanding it to support operationalization workflows, security teams can improve communication, reduce false positives, and build a scalable, future-proof threat intelligence program.

Key insights include:

• A breakdown of STIX 2.1 core components: SDOs, SROs, and SCOs, and how they enhance CTI data modeling and sharing.

• Five key challenges of relying solely on STIX for CTI operationalization and how to overcome them.

• How a STIX-inclusive data model can support advanced CTI needs, including threat hunting, detection, and incident response.

• Practical guidance for aligning CTI orchestration and operationalization with stakeholder needs across SOC, IR, vulnerability management, and risk teams.

• The pivotal role of a Threat Intelligence Platform (TIP) in managing and enriching STIX data for complex, high-volume threat environments.

Download the white paper now to understand how to harness STIX 2.1 effectively and build a high-performing, stakeholder-aligned CTI operation.