Open-source host intrusion detection
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11 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free, no paid tier
Biggest pro
Open source HIDS
Biggest con
Complex setup
TL;DR - OSSEC
- OSSEC is an open-source host-based intrusion detection system
- It monitors logs, performs file integrity checking, and detects rootkits
- Completely free and open-source
Pricing: Free forever
Best for: Individuals & startups
4.7/5 across review platforms
What is OSSEC?
OSSEC detects intrusions and monitors hosts. Open-source host intrusion detection-security monitoring that's free and proven.
The detection is file and log based. The open-source is genuine. The deployment is flexible.
Security teams wanting host monitoring use OSSEC for open-source intrusion detection.
Available on: Windows, macOS, Linux
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open source HIDS
- Good intrusion detection
- Self-hostable
- Active community
- Free
Cons
- Complex setup
- Learning curve
- UI limited
- Documentation dated
- Resource usage
Ratings Across the Web
4.7(11 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
Host IDSLog analysisFile integrityRootkit detectionActive responseOpen source
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jul 13, 2026
Free
Free
- Open source HIDS
- Host-based intrusion detection
- Log analysis
- File integrity monitoring
Reviews
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4.7/5
Across 11 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
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OSSEC FAQ
How does OSSEC detect intrusions on a host?
OSSEC detects intrusions through file and log-based analysis. It monitors hosts to identify suspicious activities and potential security breaches using these methods.
Which teams would benefit most from using OSSEC?
Security teams looking for open-source intrusion detection and host monitoring capabilities would find OSSEC most beneficial. Its features are well-suited for organizations prioritizing self-hosted security solutions.
How is OSSEC priced?
OSSEC is free to use, as it is an open-source solution. There is no paid plan required to access its host intrusion detection and security monitoring features.
What kind of trade-offs should users consider before deploying OSSEC?
Users should be aware that OSSEC has a complex setup and a learning curve. Additionally, its user interface is limited, and some of its documentation may be dated.
Can OSSEC be integrated with other security tools for log management?
OSSEC functions as a security monitoring and log management tool, primarily focusing on host intrusion detection. Its capabilities in log management can complement other security tools within an overall security infrastructure.
How does OSSEC compare to Microsoft Sentinel for host intrusion detection?
OSSEC provides open-source, self-hostable host intrusion detection with an active community, while Microsoft Sentinel is a commercial cloud-native SIEM. OSSEC's core strength lies in its free, proven host-based detection capabilities.
Source: ossec.net