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One strength of SIEM is that it can help detect threats so companies can investigate them, prevent them from accessing other areas of a network, and respond quickly if necessary. 

While other cybersecurity tools can help with detection and prevention, SIEM offers more in-depth analysis and data collection than endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems. EDRs focus only on endpoints in a computer network and don’t provide analysis of the network as a whole. 

SIEM is a threat intelligence methodology executed through custom software platforms that combine security information management and security event management into one unified SIEM solution. They are available as out-of-the-box cybersecurity software or as managed services provided by third-party vendors.

One of many aspects of a complete cybersecurity strategy, a SIEM solution can help detect unusual activity so security teams can gauge the appropriate threat response. It can account for hacking activities that breach the first-line defenses, get in through a back door, or utilize new techniques that a business's original cybersecurity infrastructure may not be prepared to defeat. 

SIEM systems log data and organize it into categories to make it useful for threat detection. Unlike other cybersecurity tools, SIEM software pulls all the logged data from various sources and compiles it in one central dashboard. That way, any unusual activity detected can trigger an alert on the central dashboard, allowing the security team to assess the problem and quickly respond accordingly. 

Since any unusual activity can be a sign of a security threat, SIEM uses correlation protocols to look for patterns and similar functions across the network and combine activities with similar attributes into a category. This is especially useful for detecting threats and finding anomalies within the system. Plus, a SIEM system retains information for record-keeping to provide evidence of data privacy compliance and to conduct post-attack forensics. 

SIEM systems continue to improve, using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to learn a company’s processes so that they can better spot anomalies and threats. The ability to adjust is essential for cybersecurity because the threats are constantly changing. For example, ransomware was not a major concern at first, but it is now at the forefront of cybersecurity efforts. 

SIEM offers benefits over similar cybersecurity systems. It’s faster, more accurate and farther-reaching than other cybersecurity options. Here’s a closer look at the benefits it offers to companies and organizations. 

SIEM systems quickly log vast amounts of data, so users get real-time analysis. This efficiency is essential when dealing with breaches and threats. 

Since the data is transmitted to one central dashboard, the security team can have everything at their fingertips. Other cybersecurity tools require users to find data in different places and interpret it independently. Though this is possible for skilled professionals, it can be more time-consuming than using the correlated information available via a SIEM solution. 

SIEM tools cover all aspects of a network. Previous systemwide monitoring tools focused on endpoints. Users could detect threats only when they were already in a position to do damage. The whole-network view available through SIEM can help detect anomalies and unusual activity earlier, allowing for a better response. 

Hackers and malware often seek unused corners of the network, where they can sit undetected. Because SIEM covers these areas, hackers won’t be able to hide their activities. 

SIEM can help with compliance because it collects and formats data for easy inspection. It offers a complete picture of employee activities and security measures throughout the system. 

The information can help with both internal and external audits, which assess compliance practices. This benefit is especially important for fields like healthcare and finance, where organizations are required by law to properly secure and encrypt clients’ personal data. 

SIEM systems normalize data. Security information can come in many formats. For example, activity logs from email servers may be different from the data acquired from mobile device activity. SIEM transmits all this information to a central dashboard and puts it in the same form, making comparisons and correlations easier and allowing for quick assessments of incoming information. 

SIEM systems perform at their best when in the hands of security pros. If you’re interested in joining the fight against malicious hackers, consider earning a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity.  Information security analysts are an example of professionals who help companies combat cyber incidents. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these professionals typically need a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a technology field for employment. Management-level cybersecurity professionals may need to pursue a master’s degree to enhance their skills. 

Whether you’re seeking to gain a basic understanding of information technology or cybersecurity, or you’re a working professional looking to expand your skill set, ������Ƶ (UOPX) offers online course collections, bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees:

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity
• Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator Course Collection