SOC (Security Operations Center)
A SOC is a 24/7 information security monitoring center that detects and responds to incidents using SIEM and other security tools.
What is a SOC in simple words
SOC (Security Operations Center, a center for monitoring and responding to information security incidents) is a department or service that monitors the company's IT infrastructure around the clock, detects hacker attacks and protects data. In simple terms, it is like a security service, but in the digital world.
Imagine you have a large office, and you hire security guards who watch the video surveillance cameras around the clock. If something suspicious happens, the guards immediately react: they call the police, block the entrances, and check what happened. A SOC works exactly the same way, only with digital systems: it monitors computer networks, servers and databases, and if it notices a breach or a virus, it immediately takes action.
A SOC combines qualified analysts, procedures and a technology platform into a single protection system. The main task of a SOC is to minimize the time to detect (MTTD — Mean Time to Detect) and the time to respond (MTTR — Mean Time to Respond) to incidents. The faster the SOC detects an attack and starts responding, the less damage the company suffers.
It actively uses SIEM systems and DLP solutions for data collection and analysis. This allows you to see the whole picture of what is happening in the infrastructure and quickly identify threats.
SOC structure and technologies
The traditional SOC model includes three levels of analysts, each of whom performs their own functions:
- L1 — primary triage operators: They process alerts from SIEM, classify incidents and carry out initial checks. If the event is not a false positive, they pass it on to the next level.
- L2 — analysts for in-depth investigation: They conduct a detailed investigation of incidents, collect evidence, determine the scope of the attack and take measures to isolate infected systems.
- L3 — threat hunting experts: They engage in proactive search for threats that were not detected by automated systems, develop new correlation rules and investigation methods.
The core of a SOC is a SIEM system, which collects and analyzes security events from the entire infrastructure. XDR (Extended Detection and Response) extends capabilities by integrating data from endpoints, servers and network equipment. SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation and Response) automates response processes, reducing time on routine operations.
DLP systems transmit information about data leaks, and firewalls transmit information about network attacks. VPN is used for secure data exchange between SOC components.
SOC deployment models
There are several SOC deployment models, and the choice depends on the size of the company and its needs:
- In-house SOC: Fully built inside the organization. It requires significant investment in equipment, software and staff, but gives full control over processes. Suitable for large companies and government agencies.
- Outsourced SOC (MSSP): Monitoring functions are transferred to an external security service provider. This saves on staff and equipment but requires trust in the external provider. Suitable for mid-size companies.
- Co-managed SOC (hybrid model): Part of the functions is performed by the internal team, part by an external provider. This is a balance between control and savings.
- Virtual SOC: A distributed team of specialists working remotely. Suitable for companies with a geographically distributed structure.
For mid-size and large organizations, the hybrid model is often the optimal choice, as it combines the control of an internal team with the expertise of an external provider.
The technical support service allows you to transfer monitoring to professionals, which is especially relevant for companies that do not have the resources to build their own SOC. Read more about building a SOC in the technologies section.
Frequently asked questions
What is a SOC in simple words?
SOC (Security Operations Center) is a security monitoring center that monitors the company's IT infrastructure around the clock, detects hacker attacks and protects data. It is like a security service, but in the digital world. A SOC uses SIEM systems to collect events and alerts analysts about threats. A SOC can be organized as an internal department or as an outsourced service. Learn more about protection in the technologies section.
What does SOC mean?
The SOC abbreviation has several meanings. In the field of information security and cybersecurity — Security Operations Center (a center for monitoring and responding to cyber incidents). In electronics — System on a Chip. In energy — State of Charge (battery charge level). In the context of our activities, a SOC is an information security monitoring center that uses SIEM and other tools. Read more about SOC in the technologies section.
What is SOC in a PC?
In the context of PCs and electronics, SOC (System-on-a-Chip) is a single microchip that combines a central processor, graphics processor, modem and controllers. Examples: Apple M-series chips, Snapdragon, MediaTek. In information security, SOC means Security Operations Center — a security monitoring center. In the context of our activities, a SOC is an information security center that uses SIEM to protect IT infrastructure. Learn more in the technologies section.
SOC and SIEM — what are they?
SOC (Security Operations Center) is a center for monitoring and responding to incidents where security analysts work. SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) is a software platform that collects and analyzes security events. SIEM is the main tool used by a SOC for monitoring. A SOC includes people, processes and technologies, and SIEM is one of the key technologies in a SOC. The technical support service helps organize a SOC.
What is a SOC in Russia?
In Russia, a SOC is a department responsible for 24/7 monitoring and protection of an organization's IT infrastructure. The main task of a SOC is proactive detection, analysis and response to cyber threats. For CII facilities and government information systems, the creation of a SOC is recommended by regulators. More than 90% of large organizations in Russia plan to create their own SOCs or use MSSP services. Read more about approaches in the technologies section.
What are SOC analysts of levels L1, L2, L3?
Analysts of three levels work in a SOC. L1 (first level) are primary triage operators who process alerts from SIEM and classify incidents. L2 (second level) are analysts for in-depth investigation and response. L3 (third level) are threat hunting, forensic analysis and correlation rule development experts. To train analysts, we offer training services.
How much does a SOC analyst earn?
The salary of a SOC analyst depends on the skill level and region. In Moscow and St. Petersburg, an L1 analyst can earn from 80,000 to 150,000 rubles, L2 — from 150,000 to 250,000 rubles, L3 — from 250,000 rubles and above. The demand for SOC analysts in Russia is constantly growing, especially in connection with the requirements of 187-FZ for CII facilities. The training service helps prepare specialists for working in a SOC.
Other terms in «Information Security»
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SOC (Security Operations Center)
A SOC is a 24/7 information security monitoring center that detects and responds to incidents using SIEM and other security tools.
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Technical support
Maintenance and technical support of information systems.
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