What is security information and event management (SIEM) used for?

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is a critical tool used primarily for the real-time analysis of security alerts generated by various hardware and software systems in an organization's IT infrastructure. It aggregates and analyzes security data from across the network, enabling security professionals to detect suspicious activities, potential threats, and security breaches. SIEM systems facilitate the collection of log and event data from multiple sources, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software, providing a centralized view of security incidents.

This capability allows organizations to respond quickly to security incidents, ensuring that threats are mitigated before they cause significant damage. Additionally, SIEM provides valuable insights into compliance reporting and forensic investigation, helping organizations to adhere to regulations and understand the events leading up to a security incident. Therefore, its primary function is to enable real-time analysis and facilitate proactive security measures.