Processes should be in place to restore audit logs for analysis for at least how long?

The correct duration for retaining audit logs for analysis is three months. This timeframe aligns with the PCI DSS requirements, which emphasize the importance of maintaining audit logs to monitor and investigate security events. Keeping logs for at least three months allows organizations to conduct thorough analyses of their security environment and address any incidents that may arise.

Retaining logs for this duration helps ensure that sufficient historical data is available to identify patterns or anomalies that could indicate security breaches or other issues. It also enables organizations to comply with regulatory obligations that often mandate a minimum retention period for log data, enhancing overall security posture and accountability.

While some organizations might choose longer retention periods for specific compliance needs or business continuity purposes, the minimum three-month requirement provides a balance between operational necessity and resource allocation. This approach allows security teams to effectively respond to incidents while managing storage and processing capabilities efficiently.