SEIM, or Security Information and Event Management, is a type of software solution that combines multiple security applications and processes into one unified system. These may include Security Information Management (SIM) and Security Event Management (SEM).

SEIM systems provide real-time analysis of security alerts generated by applications and network hardware. Some key functions of SEIM include:

1. Log Data Aggregation: This involves the gathering of log data produced by numerous network sources, including network devices, systems, and applications. 

2. Data Consolidation: Log data is normalized so that it can be analyzed and correlated. This makes it easier to spot patterns and anomalies that could indicate a security threat.

3. Automated Analysis: Once the data is gathered and consolidated, the SEIM software automatically analyzes the data for potential security incidents.

4. Alert Generation: Based on the analysis, the system generates alerts to notify security administrators of potential security threats.

5. Forensic Analysis: In the event of a security incident, the system provides tools for investigating the source and impact of the breach.

6. Security Event Correlation:  SEIM systems can correlate diverse events collected from different sources to distinguish between real threats and false positives.

7. Dashboards and Visualizations:
SEIM systems provide dashboards that can help administrators visualize complex events and timelines, making it easier to understand what's happening in their networks at any given moment.

SEIM is a crucial part of modern IT security strategies, particularly in larger organizations that must manage high volumes of log data and rapidly respond to any potential security incidents.