OSSEC vs Wazuh

August 06, 2023 | Author: Michael Stromann
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OSSEC
OSSEC is a free, open-source host-based intrusion detection system. It performs log analysis, integrity checking, Windows registry monitoring, rootkit detection, time-based alerting, and active response.
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Wazuh
Wazuh is a free and open source security platform that unifies XDR and SIEM protection for endpoints and cloud workloads.

OSSEC and Wazuh are two cybersecurity solutions with a shared history, as Wazuh is derived from OSSEC and built upon its foundation. However, they have some key differences in their functionalities and approach to security. OSSEC (Open Source HIDS Security) is a host-based intrusion detection system (HIDS) that focuses on monitoring and analyzing security events on individual hosts or endpoints. It provides real-time threat detection, file integrity monitoring, and log analysis, making it a robust solution for enhancing the security of individual servers and workstations. On the other hand, Wazuh is a more comprehensive platform that expands on OSSEC's capabilities by incorporating security information and event management (SIEM) features. It adds a centralized management server and Kibana-based visualization, providing more advanced security analytics and correlation capabilities.

Another significant difference is their deployment and management. OSSEC is often deployed as a standalone HIDS agent on individual hosts, sending security event data to a central manager for analysis and response. This architecture is well-suited for smaller environments with a limited number of hosts. On the other hand, Wazuh's architecture revolves around agents installed on monitored hosts, much like OSSEC, but it includes a centralized management server and Elasticsearch storage for enhanced scalability and centralized management. This makes Wazuh more suitable for larger environments with multiple hosts, as it provides a more centralized and scalable approach to security monitoring.

Lastly, while both OSSEC and Wazuh have open-source versions, Wazuh offers additional enterprise features and commercial support. Wazuh provides a commercial version with added capabilities, such as threat intelligence feeds, compliance templates, and professional support services, making it an attractive option for organizations that require advanced features and dedicated support. In contrast, OSSEC is primarily community-driven and relies on open-source community support for its users.

See also: Top 10 SIEM software
Author: Michael Stromann
Michael is an expert in IT Service Management, IT Security and software development. With his extensive experience as a software developer and active involvement in multiple ERP implementation projects, Michael brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his writings. Having previously worked at SAP, he has honed his expertise and gained a deep understanding of software development and implementation processes. Currently, as a freelance developer, Michael continues to contribute to the IT community by sharing his insights through guest articles published on several IT portals. You can contact Michael by email stromann@liventerprise.com