A Security Operations Center is a facility that houses an information security team. As opposed to a Network Operations Center (NOC) that oversees network management and monitoring, the Security Operations Center (SOC) oversees security systems and processes for an organization. The two do complement each other; one ensures the network is uninterrupted with maximum up-time and the other ensures that the network is protected from all angles.
The information security team, comprised of security analysts, engineers, IT managers, etc., monitors and analyzes your organization’s security positioning on an ongoing basis. This team helps detect, analyze, and respond to cyber-security threats by following a strong set of policies and procedures. Expert security personnel combined with security automation and security technology help keep tight wraps on your organization’s information and technology.
What is the benefit of having a SOC?
In the wake of growing cyber security threats, having the support of a Security Operations Center is vital. But what are the benefits of an SOC? Email safety and security is an enormous problem that feeds off of a human error. In fact, according to a study by the CyberArk Global Advanced Threat Landscape Report in 2018, 56% of IT security decision makers said that targeted phishing attacks were the top security threat they face. Ransomware attacks are growing in numbers and cost. According to CNN Business, small companies have lost over $100,000 per ransomware incident due to a combination of the ransom and downtime. In this highly digitized world where technology impacts almost all aspects of life, threats can come from all angles.
What’s protected and monitored by the SOC?
Websites, applications, networks, servers, databases, really any system that has the potential to be attacked or compromised is monitored by the security operations center. The SOC’s job is usually operational instead of security strategy development and implementation. It’s meant to protect the current security systems that are in place that protect your organization’s most prized information.
Do I have to build out my own SOC facility and team?
Building out a SOC is a timely, resource-exhaustive process that bears large costs. For this reason, many organizations choose to outsource a SOC to a managed service provider where the benefits of a SOC can be managed and implemented for you. Even if you do have a NOC or an IT team built out, there is special expertise and experience that goes into an effective SOC. For this reason, key IT decision-makers should carefully contemplate building their own SOC vs. outsourcing this expertise to a managed security service provider.
The Bottom Line
The support of a Security Operations Center is more important now than ever due to growing cyber-security concerns. That’s why managed security as a service (SECaaS), where your organization can outsource cyber-security which is becoming a huge initiative for businesses. Cyber-security shouldn’t be taken lightly, and thanks to the cloud affording best-in-class security are no longer unrealistic for organizations of all sizes and types. Contact us today to know about Cyber Sainik Security Operations Center
