Security Information and Event Management

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is a set of tools and processes designed to collect, analyse, and monitor security-related data across an organisation’s IT infrastructure. SIEM systems aggregate event data from various sources to detect, investigate, and respond to potential security threats in real time.

SIEM combines two primary functions: Security Information Management (SIM), which involves data storage, analysis, and reporting, and Security Event Management (SEM), which focuses on real-time monitoring and Incident Response. Together, these capabilities enable organisations to identify and address security incidents effectively.

The purpose of SIEM is to improve an organisation’s security posture by centralising and correlating security data, allowing for faster detection and response to threats. SIEM systems also help organisations meet compliance requirements by providing reporting and auditing capabilities essential for regulatory adherence.

SIEM works by collecting logs and event data from sources like Firewalls, servers, and network devices. The data is then normalised and analysed for suspicious patterns. SIEM uses predefined rules and machine learning Algorithms to detect anomalies and generate alerts, helping security teams to prioritise incidents and take action accordingly.

Examples of SIEM solutions include Splunk, IBM QRadar, and ArcSight. These platforms provide features like log management, Threat Intelligence integration, and automated response capabilities. Organisations often use SIEM to detect issues like unauthorised access attempts, Malware infections, and Insider Threats.

SIEM implementation can be complex and resource-intensive, requiring skilled personnel to manage and interpret data effectively. False positives are a common challenge, which can lead to alert fatigue. Regular tuning and maintenance are necessary to ensure SIEM systems operate efficiently and provide accurate insights.