Definition : SOC (Security Operations Center)

A SOC, or Security Operations Center, is an entity within an organization responsible for real-time monitoring, analysis, and protection against cyber threats. The SOC is the nerve center of a company's cybersecurity strategy, ensuring continuous monitoring of information systems to detect, assess, respond to, and mitigate cyberattacks or security incidents.

The main functions of a SOC include:

1. Monitoring and detection: Using advanced threat monitoring and detection technologies, such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), to collect and analyze logging data across networks, servers, endpoints, and other devices to identify suspicious or malicious activities.
2. Incident evaluation and response: When a potential threat is detected, the SOC assesses its severity and orchestrates an appropriate response to contain and eliminate the threat. This may include isolating affected systems, eradicating malware, and implementing security patches.
3. Vulnerability management: Identification and assessment of vulnerabilities within the organization's IT infrastructure to prioritize and manage the deployment of security patches and updates.
4. Threat analysis and intelligence: Collection and analysis of information on current and emerging threats using threat intelligence sources to anticipate and prepare for potential attacks.
5. Reporting and compliance: Producing detailed reports on security incidents, threat trends, and the effectiveness of security measures while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and security standards.

SOCs are typically composed of a multidisciplinary team of security experts, including security analysts, engineers, incident managers, and sometimes specialized threat researchers. The structure and size of a SOC may vary depending on the organization's size, industry, and level of exposure to cybersecurity risks.

In summary, a SOC plays a vital role in protecting an organization's digital assets against cyber threats by providing 24/7 detection, analysis, and incident response capabilities.