Security Information and Event Management
TL; DR
SIEM is a system that provides centralised security monitoring and incident response capabilities across the entire IT infrastructure.
Core Functions
1. Data Collection and Aggregation
- Log Collection - Network devices, servers, applications, security tools
- Event Normalization - Standardizing different log formats
- Data Correlation - Linking related events across systems
- Real-time Processing - Immediate threat detection
2. Analytics and Detection
- Rule-based Detection - Predefined security patterns
- Behavior Analytics - Anomaly detection using machine learning
- Threat Intelligence - Integration with external threat feeds
- Risk Scoring - Prioritizing security events
3. Response and Reporting
- Incident Management - Workflow automation and case tracking
- Forensics Support - Detailed investigation capabilities
- Compliance Reporting - Regulatory and audit requirements
- Dashboards and Alerting - Visual monitoring and notifications
Modern SIEM Evolution
Traditional SIEM Limitations
- High maintenance overhead
- False positive fatigue
- Limited cloud visibility
- Scaling challenges
Next-Generation SIEM
- Cloud-native Architecture - Scalable, elastic infrastructure
- AI/ML Integration - Advanced threat detection
- Extended Detection and Response (XDR) - Broader visibility
- Security Orchestration - Automated response workflows
Integration with Identity Security
SIEM platforms monitor identity-related events:
- Failed authentication attempts
- Privilege escalation activities
- Unusual access patterns
- Account compromises
Cloud SIEM Benefits
- Reduced Infrastructure Costs - No on-premises hardware
- Faster Deployment - Quick setup and configuration
- Automatic Updates - Latest threat detection capabilities
- Global Threat Intelligence - Cloud-based threat feeds
Implementation Considerations
- Data Sources - Comprehensive log collection strategy
- Use Cases - Specific security scenarios to monitor
- Retention Policies - Balancing storage costs with investigation needs
- Skills and Training - SOC analyst capabilities
SIEM solutions complement IAM systems by providing visibility into authentication and access events, supporting [[20250706213709454627]] (note not found) monitoring.