As we dive into the foundational concepts of SIEM solutions and technology, it’s important to touch upon the origins. Like most modern cybersecurity technology, the history of SIEM isn’t too extensive. The first iterations of it came onto the scene roughly in the early 2000s with the primary goal being to secure an organization or business’s data. As the digital world advanced, and more and more data was being utilized, technology advanced too in order to provide more effective information management. Eventually, new technology was developed to take into account both security information management (SIM) and security event management (SEM) to offer real-time monitoring and analysis of events. This progression resulted in the technology we refer to today as SIEM. Designed with specific attention to effective tracking and logging of security data, it’s an especially useful tool for compliance and auditing purposes. SIEM technology is continuing to advance in response to recent events and the needs of enterprises. Next-gen SIEM technology utilizes AI and machine learning for analysis and better detection of threats. Modern solutions also possess orchestration and response methods for quicker containment and treatment of threats. 4
What is SIEM?
Security information and event management (SIEM) allows an organization to assemble data from its entire network environment in order to gain ongoing and real-time visibility into activity that may potentially introduce risk to the organization. In doing so, security and IT teams are capable of achieving visibility into network activity to help better address areas of weakness before they pose a significant threat. Moreover, SIEM technology helps Security Operations Centers (SOCs) manage and secure company assets efficiently and effectively.4
How Do SIEM Solutions Work Effectively?
Today’s SIEM technology has evolved to incorporate critical functions that were previously utilized via separate solutions. To better understand an effective SIEM solution, it’s important to parse out components of the technology which enable a high-functioning security team. Log management, event correlation and analytics, and incident monitoring are but a few of the key aspects behind an effective SIEM solution.
Logging & Data Management
On a daily basis, an organization collects and receives large quantities of data. As the digital world has advanced and continues to advance, these metrics have increased making log and data management a crucial capability of an evolved SIEM solution. Highly effectual log management solutions are built for the long-term to keep up with cloud and on-site infrastructures, as well as expansion. They collect, process, classify and mark data to meet compliance and data retention needs. Moreover, log management technology aggregates information securely with retrieval and backup processes in place should you need to recover data.3
Event Correlation and Big Data Analytics
At its core, event correlation and analytics take large amounts of data compiled in log management processes for analysis to identify patterns and relationships. Correlation and analysis are useful functions of modern-day SIEM technology as they allow IT & security teams to quickly identify underlying problems for treatment and resolution. By identifying various patterns and correlating them with events, security defenders are equipped to recognize those that pose a threat to the organization.2
Incident Response, Monitoring and Alerts
By way of consolidated asset management that includes on-site and cloud-based infrastructures, SIEM solutions are capable of determining all entities within an IT environment. In consequence, the technology can monitor for incidents across the attack surface and signal to security teams anomalous behavior as it is detected. Using tailored and automated processes, SIEM technology can then alert defenders immediately, and as needed, to take action and mitigate the threat before it poses a bigger risk.4
What are the Benefits of SIEM?
Security information and event management (SIEM) technology has a range of benefits regardless of an organization’s size. These benefits include but are not limited to, ongoing monitoring, compliance & regulation as well as automation.
Ongoing Monitoring & Visibility
SIEM allows for consistent and thorough monitoring of an organization’s cyber environment and infrastructure.
Compliance & Regulation Functions
SIEM solutions allow for efficient data collection and analysis to maintain compliance and regulation. Advanced SIEM solutions provide constant audits and on-demand reports of regulatory compliance as needed.
Automation & Alerts
By automating detection and response via alerts and rule configuration, security teams can minimize reaction time for quicker and more effective identification and treatment. 4
SIEM Solutions in Denver, CO
When the time comes to invest in a Security Information and Event Management solution, it’s important to lean on a provider that takes into account the importance of an enterprise’s security standing. Cyber Sainik provides a comprehensive security program that’s customizable to meet the needs of any organization. We aim to help businesses manage all the intricacies of their security operations using an integrated and holistic approach via our Managed Security Services and Security as a Service programs that include everything from Managed SIEM, laptop security, vulnerability management, assessments and so much more. Contact our team in Denver, CO to begin improving your enterprise’s security today.
Sources:
- https://cybersecurity-magazine.com/a-brief-history-of-siem/
- https://digitalguardian.com/blog/what-event-correlation-examples-benefits-and-more
- https://www.tenable.com/blog/3-reasons-your-siem-solution-needs-industrial-visibility
- https://www.ibm.com/in-en/topics/siem
- https://www.exabeam.com/explainers/siem/what-is-siem/
