The SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is one of the most effective solutions for managing vulnerabilities in companies IT infrastructures.

SIEM allows real-time monitoring of the security status of the IT infrastructure and proactive intervention in case of an attack. 

This is achieved through the collection, correlation, and in-depth analysis of information gathered from security events.

In the current era marked by the rise of cyber attacks, investing in a SIEM solution means having an indispensable ally to enhance corporate security. 

In this article, we delve into what this technology entails, its developments, and the benefits of its usage.

What is SIEM: definition

SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management. It combines SIM (Security Information Management) and SEM (Security Event Management). In more detail:

SIM automates the collection and orchestration of logs (though not in real-time). Data is collected and sent to a centralized server using software agents installed on various monitored system devices. 

Long-term storage and data analysis enable the generation of customized reports.

SEM is a real-time software solution that monitors and manages events within the network and various security systems.

 It provides correlation and aggregation of events through a centralized console interface dedicated to monitoring, reporting, and automatically responding to specific events.

Operating Principles

In general, SIEM systems perform monitoring activities based on aggregating data from various sources such as the network, devices, applications, and systems.

The data is then analyzed and correlated to detect anomalies, critical issues, and risks, activating preventive or corrective security procedures.

Another crucial function is reporting. Detailed reports enable thorough audits and analyses of threat entities, allowing easy identification of weaknesses in the IT infrastructure.

What is Correlation Rule in SIEM?

The correlation rule of events is a fundamental moment of a SIEM solution. Using advanced analytics tools to identify and understand complex data models, event correlation rule provides insights that can help you quickly identify and mitigate potential business security threats.

SIEM improves the average detection time (MTTD) and average response time (MTTR) of IT security teams, lightening manual workflows associated with in-depth security event analysis.

SIEM and Data Privacy

SIEM technology is a valuable ally for complying with data processing regulations.

Collected data is encrypted and timestamped to preserve and make it immutable over time. Data retention policy is a fundamental aspect that highlights the transparency and usability of SIEM technology for businesses and organizations operating in the public sector.

Traditional SIEM vs Next generation SIEM

The differences between a traditional SIEM and a Next Generation SIEM (NGSIEM) are significant and reflect the evolution of cybersecurity technologies.

• Architecture and Functionality: traditional SIEMs are designed to centrally collect and manage information and security events from different devices and systems, such as workstations, firewalls, and applications.

These systems have been developed to reduce false positives generated by intrusion detection systems (NIDS) and to provide a consolidated view of security events.

Traditional tools are complex to install and use, and were initially used only by larger organizations.

On the other hand, Next Generation SIEM has been designed to integrate technologies from SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response), UBA (User Behavior Analytics), Threat Intelligence and Network Vulnerability Scanner. 

This approach allows you to manage security threats more efficiently by automating and orchestrating threat responses.

• Analysis and Correlation: traditional SIEMs focus on collecting, correlating and analyzing data from different devices and systems to identify security threats.

However, Next Generation SIEMs use threat models to determine threats, rather than simply collect and analyze data. This approach allows you to detect more complex threats and intervene more quickly and accurately.

• Integration and Scalability: Next Generation SIEM are designed to be more scalable and integrated with other security technologies, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

This allows you to collect and analyze data from a wide range of sources, including network and endpoint data, to provide a more comprehensive view of threats.

• Adaptability and Artificial Intelligence: Next Generation SIEM is designed to adapt to the specific needs of businesses and to use artificial intelligence to improve threat detection capabilities. This allows you to detect more complex threats and intervene more quickly and accurately.

SGBox’s Next Generation SIEM

SGBox’s SIEM offers advanced centralized data collection and security data processing capabilities.

It is a Next Generation technology that combines traditional SIEM capabilities with SOAR (Security Orchestration Automation and Response), UBA (User Behavior Analytics), Threat Intelligence, and Network Vulnerability Scanner technologies.

A key factor is the ability to set correlation rules that, thanks to machine learning processes, automatically activate in the event of an anomaly or a specific type of attack.

This translates into the ability to respond quickly and precisely to attacks, incidents, or malfunctions through a Detection activity that anticipates the occurrence of attacks and determines the most effective way to intervene.

The analysis and reporting of security events are also preparatory for the Security Operation Center (SOC) team.

SIEM vs SOAR: what are the differences?

The main differences between SIEM and SOAR lie in the capabilities and approach to managing cybersecurity.

SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): focuses on collecting, correlating and analyzing data from different devices and systems to detect security threats. It offers a consolidated view of security events.

SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response): goes beyond simple data collection and analysis, integrating automation and orchestration of threat responses. This approach allows you to manage security threats more efficiently.

The capabilities of SIEM and SOAR are integrated within the SGBox platform, while presenting substantial differences.

These two modules work in synergy, exchanging safety information and optimizing the functionality of the other SGBox modules.

Advantages of SGBox’s SIEM for Companies

SGBox’s SIEM can adapt to companies of various sizes and specific cybersecurity needs. The modular architecture of the SGBox platform allows the flexible and progressive development of defense activities.

Here are the main advantages of adopting SIEM:

• Constant Monitoring: IT infrastructure is continuously and real-time monitored to detect potential threats instantly.

• Flexibility and Scalability: SIEM is a modular solution that can be easily implemented with new features based on the company’s security needs.

• Detailed and Intuitive Reports: results are provided through intuitive dashboards and reports, facilitating the identification of weaknesses in the network.

• Threat Analysis and Tracking: through the correlation of security information, it’s possible to trace the origin of attacks and anticipate their negative effects.

• Simplified Security Activity Management: SIEM simplifies the management of security activities.

Discover the SGBox SIEM>>