Managed SIEM (security information and event management) services providers implement and operate SIEM systems for businesses. The services provider will leverage SIEM technology to monitor and document security information. Providers will then use this information to perform security analysis in real time and compare the log data of security events to that of secure functionality. All managed SIEM providers will construct a report based off the security and event logs to present to businesses, but many will assist the client with recommendations or even facilitate remediation. In addition to SIEM implementation and management, services providers will typically provide some level of support or guidance throughout their service contract.
Companies use these services to help improve the security of their IT systems because they do not have the staff or resources to fully implement and manage security operations. Managed SIEM services will improve their time to deployment and reduce a business' need to search for expert security professionals. While managed SIEM services may be expensive, they will almost surely require less up front investment than staffing security teams, purchasing physical resources and implementing SIEM systems. Access to security experts may also be a reason companies choose to utilize managed SIEM services. Depending on their contracted services, clients may request advice on reconfiguring systems or streamlining security operations.
To qualify for inclusion in the Managed SIEM Services category, a services provider must:
- Implement SIEM systems for clients
- Manage security information, event logs, and other relevant data
- Report to clients on the possible causes of security incidents
- Provide these managed services without the need of client assistance
