SOC (Security Operations Center)

A SOC (Security Operations Center) combines people, processes and technology to monitor security signals, investigate events and coordinate incident response. It can be internal, outsourced or hybrid, and its operating hours depend on the contracted model; the term SOC does not automatically mean continuous coverage. Typical inputs include SIEM, endpoint or XDR telemetry, identity, network logs, threat intelligence and an asset inventory. Tools do not replace analysis. Evaluation should examine connected sources, asset coverage, detection rules, observed handling times, classification, evidence retention and responsibilities during an incident. A large alert count is not proof of effectiveness. Useful outcomes are contextual investigation, documented decisions, controlled escalation and completed corrective actions, tested against scenarios relevant to the organisation.