Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems integrate two crucial InfoSec skills: managing information and events to detect outliers and react to them with the appropriate measures. Information management focuses on collecting security information from various silos of the enterprise (firewalls as well as antivirus tools and intrusion detection tools. ) Event management focuses on events that could threaten the system, ranging from a harmless human error to malicious software trying to break through.
Since their inception over a decade ago, SIEM systems have made significant progress from simple log management to integrating machine learning and analysis to provide end-to-end monitoring of threats events, event correlation, and incident management.
The latest SIEM system goes far beyond merely collecting information and incidents for security managers to track and react to threats in real-time, making it easier for humans to stay away from the situation and giving a complete approach to information security.
However, given the size and complexity, jobs carried out by a SIEM system integration within the existing security framework of an enterprise could be difficult, especially for the size of a company with many distinct centers spread worldwide.
Common SIEM integration mistakes
Cybersecurity is a significantly changing field, and a solution that is efficient today may not be feasible in the future. Unfortunately, this is precisely the place where SIEM integration problems arise. Failures in deployments and solutions not fulfilling their objectives and, over time, a frequent issue. In the case of the size of a company with a worldwide presence, the problem increases! Here’s a look into some typical mistakes organizations make when implementing a SIEM system which could later become significant security risks.
1. Implementation that is not planned
Despite widespread recognition that SIEM systems can be complex and require a lot of effort, many companies decide to use one without setting out their objectives and needs. The chances of successfully implementing a SIEM solution without planning it properly are low. Evaluating the solution in the future or on an as-needed basis will only add up to the costs that could have easily been prevented.
Additionally, the standard SIEM solutions are more general and need to address the unique cybersecurity requirements of every organization. This is another reason that it is essential to plan to allow enough flexibility to customize third-party integrations before the installation.
2. Implementing without a predefined area.
Implementing a SIEM system without specifying the scope is similar to building a house without a foundation. In the case of an enterprise with a substantial global footprint Implementing SIEM solutions without having explicit content is no more than causing massive destruction. The range is the foundation for all subsequent steps – the planning, deployment, and execution, and the maturation of the SIEM solution and its related capabilities. It determines the selection of explanation, the architecture needs, the required staffing, processes, and procedures.
3. Rooting for the one-solution-fits-all approach
With a SIEM instrument’s massive, almost vast capabilities, it can be tempting to attempt to take on everything in one go. Though SIEM solutions can be used for handling, processing, and storing vast amounts of information, that doesn’t mean it’s an ideal practice to overload the tool with too many features.
Globally-based organizations will have to handle numerous and varied applications, each situation being distinct and requiring a specific approach. Thus, SIEM-related uses cases must be dealt with by establishing stages of the cycle that allow for continuous improvement rather than an all-encompassing approach.
4. Monitoring Noise
Another common mistake is approaching SIEM as a tool for managing logs and setting it up to collect and store records from all applications and devices without distinction and thinking that this will provide an overall and clearer perspective. But, instead of reducing noise, the process increases and improves it.
Furthermore, One is only able to imagine what chaos can create in the event of a significant company with a global reach. Putting more hay in is useless when the goal is to locate an elusive needle.