What Is a Security Operations Center (SOC)?

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by josheph bell

March 25, 2025

Learn how an SOC detects, analyzes, and mitigates cyber threats in real time – and how IT and OT SOCs work together to protect organizations.

Introduction

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a specialized department within an organization or government agency responsible for the continuous monitoring, analysis, and response to cyber threats.

SOCs utilize cutting-edge security technologies, Threat Intelligence, and automated detection tools to identify security incidents in real time and respond quickly. With the increasing convergence of IT and OT (Operational Technology) environments, distinguishing between IT-SOCs and OT-SOCs is becoming increasingly important. While traditional IT-SOCs focus on corporate networks, data protection, and digital assets, OT-SOCs safeguard industrial control systems (ICS) and critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

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Differences Between IT-SOC and OT-SOC

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| Feature | IT-SOC | OT-SOC |

| Primary Focus | Protection of corporate IT, networks, and data | Protection of industrial control systems (ICS) and critical infrastructure |

| Threats | Malware, phishing, ransomware, DDoS attacks | Manipulation of production systems, sabotage, targeted cyberattacks |

| Security Priority | High focus on data confidentiality and network security | Highest priority on availability and operational safety |

| Technologies Used | Firewalls, SIEM, Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) | Industrial protocols, SCADA security, network segmentation |‍

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Core Functions of an SOC

1. Threat Detection and Incident Response

  • IT-SOC: Monitors network activity, endpoints, and user behaviors to detect phishing, malware, or data breaches early.
  • OT-SOC: Identifies anomalies in machine control systems, unusual communication patterns between IoT devices, or attempts to manipulate production environments.

2. Forensic Analysis and Threat Investigation

  • IT-SOC: Conducts in-depth forensic investigations after a cyberattack to understand how the threat infiltrated the system and what vulnerabilities were exploited.
  • OT-SOC: Investigates security incidents in industrial environments, analyzing unauthorized modifications to control systems or safety protocols.

3. Leveraging Threat Intelligence

  • IT-SOC: Uses Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) and global threat databases to automatically block known threats.
  • OT-SOC: Relies on specialized intelligence for industrial systems to prevent cyberattacks targeting manufacturing facilities and infrastructure.

Types of SOCs

1. Internal SOC

  • Large enterprises operate their own SOCs to maintain full control over security processes.
  • Requires significant investment in personnel and technology but provides maximum protection and rapid response capabilities.

2. External SOC (Managed Security Services Provider, MSSP)

  • Organizations outsource their security monitoring to specialized service providers who detect and mitigate threats 24/7.
  • Particularly beneficial for smaller organizations that lack the resources to maintain a full in-house SOC.

3. Hybrid SOC

  • A combination of internal and external SOC operations, where critical security tasks remain in-house while routine monitoring and reporting are outsourced.
  • Balances cost, efficiency, and control, providing a flexible approach to cybersecurity management.

Challenges in IT and OT SOCs

1. Different Security Priorities

  • IT security prioritizes confidentiality and data protection. The main risk in IT environments is data theft or system infiltration.
  • OT security prioritizes system availability and operational integrity. A cyberattack on a production facility could lead to severe operational disruptions, equipment damage, or even endanger human lives.

2. Different Technical Requirements

  • IT systems receive regular security updates and patches. Software and operating systems can be updated frequently.
  • OT systems are designed for long-term operation. Many industrial control systems have been running for decades and were not originally built with modern cybersecurity measures in mind. Updating them is often difficult due to potential disruptions to critical processes.

3. Integrating IT and OT Security

  • The growing interconnection of IT and OT systems (Industry 4.0) increases the risk of hybrid cyberattacks.
  • Organizations must establish harmonized security policies that protect both IT and OT environments without disrupting industrial operations.

How Are SOCs Evolving?

  • Automated Threat Detection with Artificial Intelligence: AI-driven systems will analyze cyber threats in real time and autonomously suggest or execute countermeasures.
  • Integration of IT and OT SOCs: More organizations are adopting unified security centers that oversee both IT and industrial control networks.
  • Zero-Trust Security in OT Environments: Even production networks are increasingly adopting Zero-Trust principles to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation.

Are IT and OT SOCs Essential for Organizations?

Security Operations Centers are an indispensable component of modern cybersecurity strategies, particularly for organizations in critical infrastructure, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. The seamless collaboration between IT and OT SOCs is crucial for detecting cyber threats early, preventing production downtime, and mitigating IT risks in a sustainable way.

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