The difference between SOC and SIEM: key functions, applications and collaboration

Faced with an increasing number of sophisticated attacks, companies are seeking effective solutions not only to detect but also to respond to security incidents effectively. Two terms come up a lot in this context: Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) and Security Operations Center (SOC). Although both play a very important role in cybersecurity strategy, their functions, applications, and responsibilities are different, and understanding these differences is crucial for effective security management. In this article, we explain what SIEM and SOC are, their main functions, applications, and how they complement each other to create a comprehensive defense system against cyber threats.

What is SIEM and how does it work?

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is an advanced technology solution that integrates security information management (SIM) and security event management (SEM) functions. Its main purpose is to collect, normalize, analyze and correlate data from various sources in an organization’s IT environment. SIEM collects logs and events from servers, network devices, applications, operating systems, databases, as well as security devices such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS). As a result, it provides a centralized view of activity across the entire infrastructure, enabling rapid detection of potential threats and anomalies.

Main functions of the SIEM system

SIEM systems offer a range of key features that are essential for effective security monitoring and management. The most important of these include:

• Data aggregation: The system collects data from thousands or even millions of endpoints and devices on the network. This data is then aggregated in a central repository, eliminating the need to manually search multiple sources.
• Data normalization: Different systems generate logs in different formats. SIEM normalizes this data by converting it into a unified format, which facilitates its analysis and correlation.
• Event correlation: This is one of the most important functions of SIEM. The system analyzes normalized data in search of patterns and relationships between seemingly unrelated events. For example, a single failed login may not be alarming, but a series of failed logins from different IP addresses in a short period of time may indicate a brute-force attack attempt. SIEM is able to detect such complex scenarios.
• Threat detection and alert generation: Based on defined correlation rules and behavioral analysis, SIEM identifies potential threats and generates alerts in real time. These alerts are prioritized according to their severity and potential impact on the organization.
• Log management: SIEM provides centralized log management, including storage, indexing, and archiving. This is crucial not only for security analysis but also for regulatory compliance purposes.
• Reporting and visualization: SIEM systems generate detailed reports on security events, trends, regulatory compliance, and overall security posture. They also offer advanced data visualization tools that make complex information easier to understand.

How does SIEM detect threats and generate alerts?

The process of threat detection by Security Information and Event Management is based on several mechanisms. The basis is real-time log and event analysis. SIEM uses predefined rules and signatures to identify known attack patterns. For example, if the system detects an attempt to access confidential data by a user who does not normally have permission to do so, it will generate an alert. In addition, many modern SIEM systems use machine learning and behavioral analysis (UEBA – User and Entity Behavior Analytics) to detect anomalies. This means that the system learns the normal behavior of users and systems and then identifies deviations from this norm that may indicate new, previously unknown threats (so-called zero-day attacks) or internal activities. Once a threat is identified, SIEM generates an alert that contains detailed information about the event, such as the source, target, time, and type of threat. These alerts are then forwarded to the security team for further analysis and response.

What is SOC and what are its functions?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit or team within an organization responsible for continuously monitoring, detecting, analyzing, and responding to cybersecurity incidents. Unlike SIEM, which is a technological tool, SOC is primarily people, processes, and technology working in synergy to provide comprehensive protection. The main goal of SOC is to proactively manage cyber risk, minimize the impact of attacks, and maintain the continuity of IT systems.

SOC team structure and responsibilities

The structure of a SOC team may vary depending on the size and needs of the organization, but it typically includes several key roles and levels of responsibility. A typical SOC team consists of security analysts (at various levels), security engineers, incident response specialists, and a SOC manager. Their tasks include:

• Continuous monitoring: SOC analysts continuously monitor alerts generated by security systems, such as SIEM, as well as data from other sources to detect suspicious activity.
• Threat detection and analysis: The team analyzes alerts and incidents to determine their nature, scope, and potential impact on the organization. They use advanced analytical tools and knowledge of the latest threats to do this.
• Incident response: If an incident is confirmed, the SOC coordinates containment, elimination, and recovery activities. This includes isolating infected systems, removing malware, and restoring normal operations.
• Vulnerability and patch management: SOC works with other IT teams to identify and patch security vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers.
• Threat hunting: Proactively searching for unknown threats and hidden attacks on the network that may have bypassed traditional detection mechanisms.
• Reporting and communication: The SOC team regularly reports on security status, incidents, and threat trends to the organization’s management.

SOC as a service: outsourcing security operations

Many organizations, especially smaller ones or those without sufficient resources, opt for the SOC as a Service model (SOC as a Service) model. This involves outsourcing SOC functions to a specialized external provider. This provider provides a team of experts, technological infrastructure (including SIEM), and the processes necessary for continuous monitoring and incident response. The benefits of this solution include 24/7 access to high-class specialists, reduced costs associated with building and maintaining your own SOC, as well as faster implementation and scalability. SOC as a Service allows organizations to focus on their core business while ensuring professional cyber protection.

Key differences between SOC and SIEM

Although SIEM and SOC are inextricably linked to cybersecurity and often used interchangeably, it is crucial to understand that they represent different, albeit complementary, aspects of an organization’s defense strategy. The fundamental difference boils down to the fact that SIEM is a technology (a tool), while SOC is an operational team (people and processes) that uses this technology.

Technology vs. operational team: a fundamental distinction

SIEM (Security Information and Event Management): This is software or a platform whose main task is to automatically collect, aggregate, normalize, and correlate data from logs and security events across the entire IT infrastructure. SIEM acts as an advanced monitoring system that processes vast amounts of information, identifies patterns, and generates alerts based on predefined rules and behavioral analysis. It is a system that provides raw data and pre-processed information, pointing to potential threats. It can be compared to an advanced alarm system that detects irregularities and signals them.

SOC (Security Operations Center): This is a physical or virtual command center where a team of qualified cybersecurity specialists work. Their role is not only to monitor alerts, but above all to interpret them, analyze them in context, conduct investigations, respond to incidents, and proactively search for threats (threat hunting). The SOC is a dynamic, human element that makes decisions, implements strategies, and adapts to the changing threat landscape. They are the guardians who not only hear the alarm, but understand its cause, assess the risk, and take appropriate action.

Scope of responsibility: data analysis vs. incident response

The scope of responsibility is another fundamental difference:

Security Information and Event Management: Its responsibility ends with data analysis and alert generation. SIEM excels at identifying anomalies and potential threats based on collected logs. However, it does not take corrective action on its own or conduct complex investigations. It is a support tool that provides the information necessary to make decisions.

Security Operations Center: The responsibilities of this team are much broader and cover the entire security incident management cycle. The SOC team not only analyzes alerts, but also verifies them, classifies them, investigates them, coordinates response actions (e.g., isolating infected systems, removing malware), and then documents the entire process and draws conclusions for the future. The SOC is also responsible for proactive activities such as threat hunting, vulnerability management, and building security awareness within the organization.

Interdependence and integration of SIEM and SOC activities

Despite these differences, SIEM and SOC are closely related and complement each other. You cannot talk about an effective SOC without a robust SIEM system, or a fully utilized SIEM without a skilled SOC team. The monitoring system provides the SOC with the necessary data and context, acting as its “eyes and ears” in a vast IT infrastructure. Without SIEM, the SOC team would have to manually review vast amounts of logs, which would be impossible and inefficient. Conversely, without SOC, alerts generated by SIEM would go unanswered and detected threats would not be properly handled. SIEM without SOC is just an alarm system without guards, and SOC without SIEM is guards without monitoring tools. Their integration creates a powerful defense mechanism, where technology automates collection and initial analysis, and human intellect and experience make key decisions and take action.

When to choose SIEM, and when to choose SOC?

The decision to implement SIEM, build your own SOC, or use SOC as a service depends on many factors, including the size of the organization, its budget, available human resources, level of cybersecurity maturity, and the specifics of the industry and regulatory requirements.

Selection criteria depending on the needs of the organization

• Size and complexity of the organization: Large enterprises with extensive IT infrastructure and large amounts of data to monitor often need both an advanced SIEM system and a dedicated SOC team. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) may have limited resources and budgets, prompting them to choose simpler SIEM solutions or use SOC as a service.
• Budget: Implementing and maintaining your own SIEM and SOC requires significant investment, including the cost of licenses, hardware, software, and, above all, salaries for highly qualified specialists. Outsourcing SOC can be more cost-effective for organizations that cannot afford such expenses.
• Availability of human resources: The cybersecurity job market is tough, and finding and retaining experienced SOC analysts is a challenge. Organizations that do not have access to such talent should consider outsourcing.
• Regulatory requirements and compliance: Highly regulated industries (e.g., finance, healthcare) often have an obligation to continuously monitor and respond quickly to incidents, which requires both advanced SIEM and an efficient SOC.
• Risk level: Organizations that process sensitive data or are frequent targets of attacks should invest in comprehensive solutions that combine SIEM and SOC.

Benefits of having a dedicated SOC team

Having your own dedicated SOC team, whether supported by internal SIEM or SOC as a Service, brings a number of benefits:

• Proactive approach: The SOC team not only responds to incidents, but also actively searches for threats (threat hunting) and strengthens defenses.
• Quick response: Your own team can respond to incidents much faster because it knows the specifics of the organization and its infrastructure.
• Deeper analysis: SOC analysts can perform more in-depth analysis of incidents, identifying their source and impact.
• Continuous improvement: The SOC team continuously learns from incidents and adapts its defense strategies to the changing threat landscape.
• Regulatory compliance: Having SOC makes it easier to meet regulatory and audit requirements.
• Trust and reputation: Effective cybersecurity builds trust among customers and partners and protects the organization’s reputation.

In summary, the choice between SIEM and SOC, as well as the decision to implement them internally or outsource them, should be a strategic decision, preceded by a thorough analysis of the organization’s needs and capabilities. In many cases, the optimal solution is a combination of both elements, where SIEM provides data and SOC interprets it and responds.

Summary

Understanding the difference between SIEM and SOC is fundamental for any organization seeking effective protection against cyber threats. SIEM, as an advanced technology platform, acts as the “eyes and ears” of the security system, collecting, correlating, and analyzing vast amounts of data from across the IT infrastructure. Its ability to automatically detect anomalies and generate alerts is invaluable in a dynamic threat environment. SOC, on the other hand, as a team of skilled professionals, is the “brain and hands” of security operations, interpreting alerts, conducting investigations, responding to incidents, and proactively searching for threats. It is the human element that provides context to the data and makes strategic decisions.

SIEM and SOC should not be treated as alternatives, but as complementary elements that work together to create a powerful defense mechanism. SIEM provides SOC with the necessary information, and SOC uses this information to take action. Modern technologies such as SOAR, XDR, Threat Intelligence, and UEBA further strengthen this collaboration by automating processes, enriching analysis, and accelerating response times.

The decision to implement SIEM and build a SOC (internal or as a service) should be based on a detailed analysis of the organization’s needs, resources, and risk level. Regardless of the model chosen, it is crucial to continuously improve processes, invest in team development, and adapt to the changing threat landscape. In the digital age, where cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, an effective cybersecurity strategy based on an integrated SIEM and SOC approach is not only a matter of regulatory compliance, but above all a prerequisite for the survival and growth of the organization.