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Sigma

Tool manual · Kali & common usage

SOC · Intermediate · SOC lane

IntermediateDetection Rules
Authorized usage only. Capture and inspect traffic only on systems and networks you own or have written permission to analyze.

What is Sigma?

Sigma is a generic detection rule format convertible to SIEM queries.

Write detections once; deploy to Splunk/Elastic/etc.

Official website: Sigma · Documentation

When do you use it?

  • You need Vendor-neutral detection rule format convertible to SIEM queries.
  • You are following a CYNARKS lab or authorized engagement that calls for Sigma.
  • You already tried simpler checks and need this tool’s deeper capability.

Who uses it?

  • DFIR analysts
  • SOC / blue team
  • Malware analysts

How do you use it? (typical flow)

  1. Install Sigma using the steps below (prefer Kali package or official installer).
  2. Confirm you have authorization for the target (lab VM, own system, or written scope).
  3. Run --help / man (or the Help section) to see current flags for your version.
  4. Start with a safe example from Basic commands against localhost or an authorized lab target.
  5. Record what you ran, what you observed, and any follow-up (filter, report, remediation).

Help & manual (like man / --help)

Every serious tool has a built-in way to look up flags. Learn these first so you are not stuck memorizing every option.

  1. 1. Site

    https://sigmahq.io/

Kali Linux

Use sigma-cli / pySigma on Kali or any Python env.

1. Installation

OSInstallation
Kali LinuxUse sigma-cli / pySigma on Kali or any Python env.
OfficialSee official docs: https://sigmahq.io/

2. Basic commands

  1. 1. Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

    sigma convert -t splunk rule.yml

    Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

  2. 2. Show help

    sigma --help

    List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

  3. 3. Short help

    sigma -h

    Alternate help flag when supported.

  4. 4. List all options

    --help / -h

    List all options

Options / flags

OptionPurpose
--help / -hList all options

5. Useful features

  • Core workflow and interface
  • Reading and interpreting output
  • Key configuration options
  • Integrating into a professional workflow

6. Practical examples

  1. Example 1: Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

    sigma convert -t splunk rule.yml

    Safe example against your own lab data or localhost

  2. Example 2: Show help

    sigma --help

    List flags for your installed version (same habit as man/--help).

  3. Example 3: Short help

    sigma -h

    Alternate help flag when supported.

  4. Example 4: List all options

    --help / -h

    List all options

7. Important notes

  • Sigma is used by professionals for legitimate defense, testing and research.
  • Authorized targets only — labs, systems you own, or written permission.
  • Prefer reading --help / man / official docs for your installed version; flags change over time.

Related course: soc analyst blue team · Commands: /commands#siem