SOC in cybersecurity: how does it detect and prevent cyberattacks?

Today’s cyberattacks no longer resemble the handcrafted intrusions of the past. Faced with well-organized adversaries targeting sensitive corporate data, traditional security methods are reaching their limits. In this context, the value of a cybersecurity SOC becomes clear: a Security Operations Center where expert teams stand guard, capable of thwarting even the most sophisticated attack strategies.

What is a cybersecurity SOC?

Imagine an airport control tower, but for IT security. A SOC (Security Operations Center) orchestrates an organization’s digital defense with the same precision as an air traffic controller guiding aircraft. Its specialists monitor every signal, analyze every anomaly and coordinate emergency responses: a team of experts that turns incident detection into a true industrial process, where each analyst contributes to the company’s overall protection.

This vigilance never sleeps. A cybersecurity SOC operates around the clock, transforming even the smallest suspicious clue into an actionable alert.

Core missions of a SOC

Continuous monitoring and threat identification

Every click, every connection and every data transfer leaves a digital trace. In cybersecurity, the SOC converts this flood of information into actionable intelligence. Servers, workstations and business applications are all continuously monitored.

SIEM platforms (Security Information and Event Management) act as the central brain, processing millions of events to reveal suspicious patterns and detect threats in real time. When an intrusion detection system (IDS) recognizes the signature of a known attack, the alert is immediately escalated.

Security incident assessment and classification

Not all alerts are equal. Distinguishing signal from noise is a key skill of the SOC analyst: does this unusual connection indicate a travelling employee or an attacker conducting reconnaissance? Each security incident requires in-depth analysis to assess its impact on systems and data. Behavioral analysis helps identify anomalies in access to critical corporate data and enables appropriate countermeasures.

Emergency response and threat mitigation

Once a threat is confirmed, every second counts. The SOC deploys countermeasures with surgical precision: isolating without disrupting, blocking without breaking operations.

SOC technologies and tools for cybersecurity

Behind every high-performing SOC lies a sophisticated technological arsenal. SIEM platforms form the nervous system of the organization, collecting and analyzing terabytes of logs to make the invisible visible by centralizing security tools, including cloud solutions.

This is where UEBA (User and Entity Behavior Analytics) comes into play, learning the normal behavior of users and systems. XDR automation (Extended Detection and Response) then enables immediate handling of the most common incidents.

SOC vs NOC: understanding the differences

Both the SOC and the NOC (Network Operations Center) are essential to an organization’s IT environment, but their missions differ fundamentally. The NOC focuses on network availability and performance, monitoring infrastructure to identify and resolve connectivity issues while ensuring data flows meet service-level agreements.

The SOC, on the other hand, focuses on protection against cyber threats. In terms of security, the SOC stands out for its ability to detect and analyze threats specifically targeting corporate data. While the NOC manages natural disruptions in IT operations, the SOC combats malicious software and human attackers through dedicated security measures.

Skills and challenges of a SOC

A cybersecurity SOC brings together specialists with varying levels of expertise. Level-1 analysts handle initial triage and incident and alert management, assessing severity. Level-2 analysts conduct deeper investigations, analyze malware and reconstruct attack scenarios to identify complex threats. The SOC Manager oversees processes and coordinates the security team.

However, this structure faces major challenges. Alert management is a significant issue, with thousands of alerts generated daily, overwhelming even experienced teams. More concerning is the talent shortage: recruiting and retaining cybersecurity experts is increasingly difficult, while attackers continuously refine their techniques.

SOC deployment models

Build or buy? This question challenges every executive facing cybersecurity concerns.

• An internal SOC appeals to large organizations, offering full control and deep system knowledge, but at a high cost.
• Outsourcing to an MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider) democratizes access to expertise, with 24/7 security operations.
• MDR services go even further, not only detecting threats but actively responding on a continuous basis.

Between these approaches, the hybrid model combines the best of both worlds.

The importance of cybersecurity within the Sewan ecosystem

Sewan integrates SOC principles into its overall cybersecurity approach. Our endpoint and server protection solution with CrowdStrike includes proactive monitoring and threat detection capabilities, enabling organizations to benefit from continuous protection against cyberattacks, whether or not they operate an internal SOC.

Our teams’ expertise is built on a deep understanding of current challenges, particularly ransomware attacks, which represent a growing threat to all organizations.

Benefits of a SOC for businesses

The benefits of a cybersecurity SOC translate into tangible advantages in incident management and data protection:

• Reduced detection times
• Improved regulatory compliance
• Optimized security costs
• Implementation of standardized security processes
• Increased customer trust

Making the right decision for your organization

Implementing a cybersecurity SOC requires a thorough analysis of existing systems and business processes. Each organization has specific characteristics: IT architecture, data criticality, budget constraints and regulatory requirements. The key question is determining which SOC model best fits these parameters.

This strategic assessment should consider several determining factors: risk assessment, information system criticality, availability of internal resources and long-term security objectives. Rigorous management of these elements will guide the choice toward the most suitable SOC model.

FAQ

What is the difference between a SOC and a CSIRT?
A SOC ensures continuous monitoring and proactive threat detection, while a CSIRT (Computer Security Incident Response Team) focuses specifically on responding to incidents once they are detected.

How much does it cost to implement a SOC?
The cost varies significantly depending on the chosen model. An internal SOC requires substantial upfront investments (staff, technologies, training), while an outsourced SOC operates on a monthly subscription model that is generally more accessible for SMEs.

Can a SOC prevent all cyberattacks?
No security solution guarantees absolute protection. However, a well-configured cybersecurity SOC significantly reduces the risk of successful intrusions and limits the impact of attacks that bypass initial defenses. Effectiveness depends on tool quality, team expertise and regular security updates.