In computing, an audit log is a record of an event. An event is any significant action that impacts the hardware or software of a computer – anything from a mouse click to a program error. Besides documenting which resources were accessed and what for, an audit file system will also include the source and destination addresses, the timestamp, and the user ID information.

Event correlation tools are a fundamental instrument in your toolbox to detect threats from all sources across your organization in real time. A wise use of the right event correlation techniques through log management and analysis is the cornerstone of any reliable security information and event management (SIEM) strategy – a strategy that focuses on prevention rather than reaction.

Here at Graylog, we have recently had an increase in conversations with security teams from leading companies. We want to share our key findings with the Graylog community. The good thing is that cybercriminals use a methodical approach when planning an attack. By understanding their process and knowing your network, you will be better prepared and able to stay one step ahead.

Proactive event notification is one of the most valuable components of centralized log management and SIEM. It allows us to identify problems, misconfigurations, and potential security risks at an early stage. One of the ways we can improve event notification within Graylog is through the use of Lookup Tables.

If your company is like many others, it probably invested heavily in the Microsoft ecosystem. Microsoft has been around since the 1980s, focusing primarily on business technologies. It has a reputation for compatibility which gives you more purchasing options across devices and accessories. Unfortunately, this reach across corporate IT environments means that malicious actors target everything associated with Microsoft.