OSSEC vs LogRhythm: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OSSEC and LogRhythm comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OSSEC
Open-source host intrusion detection
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • OSSEC is an open-source host-based intrusion detection system
- • It monitors logs, performs file integrity checking, and detects rootkits
LogRhythm
SIEM and security analytics platform
Best for you if:
- • LogRhythm is a SIEM platform for security monitoring and threat detection
- • It provides log management, user behavior analytics, and compliance reporting
| At a Glance |  OSSEC |  LogRhythm |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Log Management | Log Management |
Rating | 78/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | OSSEC | LogRhythm |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 78 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Log ManagementVulnerability Scanning | Log ManagementSecurity Monitoring |
How OSSEC and LogRhythm Compare
OSSEC
Open-source host intrusion detection
Free · 78/100 score
LogRhythm
SIEM and security analytics platform
Paid · 78/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OSSEC is free. LogRhythm is paid.
Go with: OSSEC
Want the highest-rated option?
OSSEC: 78/100. LogRhythm: 78/100.
Go with: OSSEC
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OSSEC
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OSSEC is free. LogRhythm is paid. Go with OSSEC if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are log management tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Both score 78/100.
Key Takeaways
OSSEC
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
LogRhythm
The Bottom Line
OSSEC (78/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OSSEC or LogRhythm better?
OSSEC scores 78/100 in our evaluation. OSSEC is free and LogRhythm is paid.
What are OSSEC and LogRhythm used for?
OSSEC: Open-source host intrusion detection. LogRhythm: SIEM and security analytics platform.
What does OSSEC cost vs LogRhythm?
OSSEC is completely free. LogRhythm is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.