The Executive’s Guide to Security Operations Center Models

Cyber threats never take a day off, never clock out and go home at the end of the day. Your cyber security efforts need to keep pace. Enter the security operations center (SOC), a key component of a comprehensive security framework. Understanding the different security operations center models is essential to making informed decisions about strategy.

But first, take a minute to understand SOC basics. The SOC consists of a centralized command center focused on continuously monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security threats. The primary functions of the SOC include the following:

• 24/7/365 monitoring – A key purpose of the SOC involves continuous monitoring of the IT infrastructure to detect suspicious activity and known exploits and initiate a response.
• Triage and analysis – The SOC analyzes log data, combining security information and event management (SIEM) technologies with analysis by human engineers.
• Incident response – SOC teams respond to security incidents in real time. This includes containment, eradication, recovery, and remediation operations. It also includes root cause analysis to determine contributing factors and help to prevent recurrence.
• Compliance management – The SOC forms a key part of ensuring that all systems, tools, and processes comply with data privacy regulations.

The composition of the SOC will depend on business needs and resources. For instance, an organization may keep the SOC on premises, staffed with internal personnel. Alternatively, they may choose to subscribe to a SOC-as-a-service solution. Or they may use a hybrid approach.

In-house SOC

An in-house, dedicated SOC is built and managed entirely within the organization. On the plus side, this model offers complete control over security policies, procedures, and data. It also provides the ability to tailor security protocols to fit unique organizational requirements. And it makes it easier to integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure and business processes.

However, initial setup and ongoing SOC operations can prove costly. This model also requires skilled personnel and continuous training, and it may be challenging to scale operations to match business growth.

Managed SOC

In this scenario, the organization outsources the SOC to a third-party provider that specializes in security operations. This model will appeal to organizations that lack the resources or expertise to maintain an in-house SOC.

With a managed SOC, the organization benefits from lower upfront costs. They also gain access to a team of security agents with specialized knowledge that will provide 24/7 monitoring and incident response services.

At the same time, the organization has less direct control over security operations and data, with limited ability to customize security measures to specific needs. Additionally, they must rely on the third-party provider for security management and may find they are locked into the partnership.

Hybrid SOC

The hybrid SOC combines elements of both in-house and managed SOC models and allows the organization to augment its in-house resources. For example, the organization may use internal personnel to maintain security systems but contract with a security vendor to provide advanced security analysis and threat hunting.

The hybrid approach offers flexibility and allows for tailored solutions. It also optimizes costs and enhances scalability by outsourcing specific functions. But managing a hybrid SOC can prove complex, requiring clear communication and coordination between internal and external teams.

Virtual or On-premises?

Whether the organization opts for an in-house or a managed SOC, or a combination thereof, they can choose between on-premises and virtual. Each option has its advantages.

An on-premises SOC houses security operations within a physical location, providing a centralized command center. This scenario offers a great deal of control over security and seamless integration with existing systems. But it requires additional physical infrastructure as the organization grows, and upfront costs are hefty.

A virtual SOC, on the other hand, leverages cloud-based technologies, providing flexibility, accessibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Consequently, it may appeal to organizations with teams spread across multiple locations or those looking to outsource security operations.

How to Choose Among Security Operations Center Models

Selecting the right SOC model for your business depends on various factors, from organization size to budget, security requirements, and available resources. To make an informed decision, you should first evaluate your organization’s security needs, including risk profile and regulatory requirements.

Next consider existing resources, including budget, personnel, and expertise. If you decide to go with a managed or hybrid SOC, carefully research and evaluate potential security providers. Look for a SOC model that can scale with your organization’s growth and evolving needs, one that will integrate seamlessly with existing IT infrastructure and processes.

The security providers at eMazzanti Technologies offer a SOC-as-a-service solution that combines automated monitoring with access to highly trained security experts. Whether you choose a fully managed solution or need to augment in-house resources with additional tools and expertise, we will tailor a solution to meet your needs.