Samhain

Samhain is a host-based intrusion detection system (HIDS) offered by Samhain Labs. It is designed to provide security measures for companies of various sizes. According to the vendor, Samhain offers features such as file integrity checking, log file monitoring/analysis, port monitoring, and detection of rogue SUID executables and hidden processes. These features make it a valuable tool for IT security professionals, system administrators, network administrators, compliance officers, and financial institutions.

Key Features

Centralized Monitoring: According to the vendor, Samhain uses a client/server architecture for centralized logging, storage of baseline databases and client configurations, and updates of baseline databases. It enables monitoring and maintenance of multiple hosts with potentially different operating systems, providing centralized visibility and control over network security.

Web-Based Management Console: The vendor provides Beltane as a web-based central management console for Samhain. It allows administrators to browse client messages, acknowledge them, and update centrally stored file signature databases. Beltane is designed to have an intuitive and user-friendly interface, facilitating the management and monitoring of Samhain. It also provides easy access to client reports and activity.

Flexible Logging: Samhain supports multiple logging facilities, each of which can be individually configured according to the vendor. Administrators can choose the logging facility that best suits their needs and preferences, allowing for flexible and customizable logging configurations.

Tamper Resistance: According to the vendor, Samhain offers PGP-signed database and configuration files to ensure their integrity and authenticity. It also has a stealth mode that allows it to hide its presence from potential attackers. These features aim to protect against tampering and unauthorized access.

File Integrity Checking: Samhain performs file integrity checking to detect unauthorized changes or modifications to files. According to the vendor, this feature ensures the integrity and security of critical system files and configurations. It helps in identifying potential security breaches and unauthorized activities.

Log File Monitoring/Analysis: Samhain monitors and analyzes log files to identify suspicious or malicious activities, providing insights into system events and activities for security analysis and incident response, according to the vendor. This feature assists in the detection and investigation of security incidents and breaches.

Port Monitoring: According to the vendor, Samhain monitors network ports to detect unauthorized or suspicious network activity. It helps identify potential vulnerabilities and security risks, allowing administrators to take proactive measures to secure the network.

Detection of Rogue SUID Executables: Samhain can detect rogue SUID (Set User ID) executables, which may pose security risks, according to the vendor. This feature helps identify unauthorized privilege escalation attempts, enabling administrators to take necessary actions to mitigate the risks.

Hidden Process Detection: According to the vendor, Samhain can detect hidden processes running on the system. This feature helps identify malicious or unauthorized processes that may be hiding from traditional monitoring methods, providing visibility into potential security threats and unauthorized activities.