SIEM: what it is, benefits, and how to strengthen your cybersecurity

SIEM is a security solution that enables organizations to detect and respond promptly to threats, vulnerabilities, or breaches within their systems, networks, servers, and devices. Thanks to its real-time event management system, it allows IT area specialists to implement measures and make decisions to ensure the integrity of company data.

The following sections explain what it is, how it works, and its main advantages.

What is SIEM?

SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management, known in Spanish as “gestión de información y eventos de seguridad.”

It is a security solution that allows centralization and management of data generated by an organization. Accordingly, SIEM systems provide a comprehensive view through the collection and correlation of security events (SEM) (Security Event Management) and security data from multiple sources such as servers or devices.

This SIEM solution enables security specialists and analysts to detect security threats and respond quickly to incidents. In addition, it facilitates regulatory compliance by maintaining detailed records of activities and alerts, which provide valuable information for audits, risk assessments, and cybersecurity decision-making.

Security Information and Event Management Tools

SIEM includes a wide range of tools that not only allow the detection of threats but also the response to security events, issues, or system breaches. One of the main functions of these tools — and of the SIEM solution in general — is security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR, Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response), which improves the efficiency of security teams by automating repetitive processes.

However, SIEM tools not only detect threats but are also used for regulatory compliance. Many companies and organizations must comply with security protocols and standards, which require timely responses to threats and resolution of security breaches. SIEM systems provide reports made possible by the integration of SIEM security with SIM (Security Information Management). This is essential for controlling and protecting a company’s IT infrastructure.

So, what are these tools? The main ones include: 

• IBM QRadar
• Splunk
• Sumo Logic
• Elastic Stack
• LogRhythm

The use of one SIEM tool or another will depend on the needs and size of the company, as well as the regulatory requirements it must meet.

SIEM Practices and Operation

So, what practices should be applied to ensure a company’s data security? Key actions include the following: 

• Configuration. Systems must be properly configured. What does this practice involve? Event correlation rules are applied, monitored events are defined, and alerts are fine-tuned.
• Data collection. Another practice is gathering data to obtain an overall view of network systems’ operation and security, as well as of devices.
• Analysis. Data is systematically analyzed to identify patterns, risks, and potential future threats.
• Alerts. As noted, security specialists assign alerts to act quickly against possible vulnerabilities.
• Response. Incidents require responses and investigations to implement more effective security measures.
• Management. SIEM systems enable centralized incident management, a key aspect in vulnerability control.
• Updating. Systems must be regularly updated to address new threats, fix security flaws, and improve overall performance.

What Are the Advantages and Limitations of SIEM?

Let’s now look at the advantages and disadvantages of implementing SIEM.

Advantages 

• Allows for rapid threat detection. This occurs in real time, making this one of the most effective security solutions.
• Enables event correlation through automation, which is crucial for identifying suspicious behaviors or detecting complex attacks.
• Provides detailed information and records about security activities, which is essential for compliance.
• Promotes task automation, positively impacting task optimization and workload reduction.

Limitations

• There may be an overload of alerts due to false positives.

• Requires a significant effort to configure and manage its systems, leading to the need for specialists and time.

• Needs constant updates, so IT teams must stay attentive to new versions.

• Requires a large volume of data to work efficiently. If data volume is low, the tools may not reveal valuable insights for threat prevention and response.

• Can be very expensive for small businesses.