In a little different direction from our most recent technical blog posts, I'd like to focus on getting the most return from your Splunk investment. Often, the work is focused on importing data into Splunk without considering what end-users must be aware of to utilize it and what administrators require to know to manage and configure it properly. Today's subject in a single term: training.

It isn't possible to manage and utilize Splunk efficiently without basic knowledge of its structure and its search language. It's not uncommon. A lack of understanding can lead to expensive maintenance systems, lengthy search times, and possibly incorrect data. It could also result in this crucial tool sitting within your network.

A couple of hours of training can go a long way in preventing these problems. Here's a brief overview of different Splunk training alternatives.

Certification Training

Splunk certified Education is an excellent source for users to receive instruction and hands-on training on various topics. Topics range from operating the user interface to details regarding a specific activity or app. The courses that will be beneficial to a user depend on the user's role in the Splunk ecosystem.

Free Online Resources

While certified training can be a convenient method of combining learning into a streamlined block, it requires the often limited budget of money and time. Many other options require more effort for self-starters but may help you gain better knowledge than a tutorial with step-by-step lab instructions.

Splunk's Free E-Learning Courses

Alongside the fee-based courses, Splunk currently provides three online learning courses:

Splunk Tutorial for beginners: An overview of Splunk. introduction to Splunk

Building Add-ons: A look making application that process and collect data

Create Modular Inputs: A guideline on how to enhance the capabilities of Data Inputs in the GUI GUI

Splunk Documentation

Splunk offers extensive online documentation for a variety of functional areas. Its online manual is organized somewhat differently than certified courses; however, it covers the same content. Of course, need to set up an individual "lab" space to test your ideas.

Webinars

There are various options on the internet outside of Splunk, like YouTube webinars and videos. In a sly promo for my company, igmGuru provides a free 2-hour Splunk Fundamentals virtual Bootcamp that includes the use of a hands-on lab to get people keen to know more about Splunk. We also provide a Splunk for Security Bootcamp for veterans looking for an introduction to Splunk's Enterprise Security Premium App, including hands-on lab sessions. You can find out more information about these boot camps on our website.

Splunk Wiki

There are a variety of topics addressed by the user community on the Splunk Wiki that range from troubleshooting and the details of implementation. Splunk has done an excellent job in assisting and supporting Splunk users by providing documents and providing the customer and partner ecosystem. The whole ecosystem is valuable and can share tips; lessons learned, best practices, and similar information in this free and invaluable information source.

Splunk Answers

This isn't an instructional or training resource. It's more than a question-and-answer forum. But, there is plenty to be learned about specific subjects by scouring Splunk Answers for more information. When browsing its contents, be aware that certain pages are outdated and might not apply to your particular versions of Splunk. However, it's an excellent source for specific areas.

"Just Give It a Try"

One of the most outstanding features of Splunk is that it's accessible for 500MB per day. If you're looking to dive into the action and get sweaty, it's simple to do this with Splunk. Download Splunk and start collecting information for your private instance. Although this doesn't provide an excellent architectural or best practice experience, there's something to be gained from taking it on the road. I am often faced with problems that aren't solved by courses, and this technique assists me in tackling the problem. I'd recommend combining this method with another; However, I'm more educated when tackling my issues.

Splunk is a flexible platform that can be used for Operational and Security Intelligence. Ensuring that your team is aware of how to configure, manage and utilize it efficiently is essential to get the most benefit from Splunk's platform. No matter what information source you use, having experienced Splunk users is essential for keeping your environment running smoothly and in sync.