The security operation center (SOC) is responsible for a vast range of functions. These are commonly known functions, but each has many smaller parts that make up the result.
Although it would be impossible to list all the tasks performed by the SOC, below are ten key functions you should know about.
What is a Security Operations Center (SOC)?
So, what is SOC security? The SOC team is a knowledgeable and experienced collective that manages and monitors security status. The SOC team plans and executes a security strategy, which ultimately maintains the integrity of the network, data, and physical infrastructure. Businesses need to have stringent policies in place concerning cybersecurity.
A SOC team does just that by enforcing such policies by monitoring the network 24/7 to review activities such as system usage, threats, or attacks against your network. You can hire external companies to assist with this, such as Micro Focus.
10 Key Functions Performed by the SOC
1. Analysis of Data
The SOC team is in charge of monitoring networks to analyze data to identify any cyber breaches or breaches by unauthorized access. SOC team members are looking to protect against potential system failures, infections, malware attacks, and all other types of digital threats.
2. Analysis of Network Activity
The SOC team ensures that each user has a unique identification and access information to facilitate controlled access to the overall network. The team continues to monitor systems for unauthorized access, intrusion, or other forms of unauthorized activities.
3. Network Security Monitoring
The SOC monitors all network traffic in real-time to detect any possible cyber-attacks or vulnerabilities that may be present. The team members are monitoring systems and applications to log events, alerts, and other incidents. Network monitoring is often accomplished using sniffers and packet analyzers.
4. Documenting Network Practices
The SOC is responsible for documenting all policies that take place concerning cybersecurity. The team keeps the network administrator guide (NACG), which contains all security policies.
5. Incident Response
SOC team members respond to any incidents that may arise, and they also determine the possible cause and take corrective measures. The team member must follow procedures and policies set forth by the organization and network management.
6. Incident Notification
The SOC team is responsible for notifying all affected business units of any security incidents that occur on a network. The team should also notify other team members, other departments, and any third parties involved.
7. Risk and Vulnerability Analysis
The SOC team continually monitors and analyzes risks and vulnerabilities to identify any potential threats. They also ensure that the business knows of these incidents and any possible risk to the business.
8. Escalation of Incidents
The SOC team is responsible for initiating an escalation process to report incidents to key stakeholders. The team is also responsible for coordinating with technical teams to address the incident.
9. Alerting Users of Incidents
The SOC team members are responsible for providing users with all relevant information about issues that may have been reported to the team. The team will provide any solutions and recommendations as well as provide further details on the report.
10. Response to Incidents
The SOC team responds to any incidents that a network may have experienced. The team members are implementing solutions, taking corrective measures, and preparing to respond to future incidents.
The SOC is an organized team that puts into place all cybersecurity strategies that adhere to your network’s level of risk. Without implementing a well-planned cybersecurity strategy, businesses are susceptible to cyberattacks, which can have devastating effects on the reputation of any given company.
