Cyber threats are a growing concern for businesses, with cybercriminals using tactics like hacking, data breaches, and ransomware. These attacks can lead to stolen data, reputational damage, and financial losses.
Organizations need tools to detect and block attacks, update software, train employees in security practices, and have an action plan to protect against these threats. However, it can be challenging to secure your data and systems with cyber threats evolving constantly.
This is why having a Security Operations Center (SOC) is important. A SOC monitors a company’s network 24/7, using advanced tools to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time. But, small and medium-sized businesses may lack the expertise or resources to build an in-house SOC team.
Managed SOC services offer a cost-effective solution, providing expert protection and continuous monitoring without needing a full-time team.
In this article…
What is Managed SOC?
Managed SOC providers are a dedicated team of cybersecurity experts, including analysts, engineers, and auditors, working tirelessly to monitor your organization’s digital infrastructure. They manage and operate the SOC using the client’s existing security setup to detect potential threats and respond immediately to mitigate risks. It is a comprehensive cybersecurity solution delivered by third-party providers, such as outsourcers or consulting firms.
Protect your business with real-time threat intelligence, monitoring, and rapid incident response.
But beyond the technical jargon lies a human-centric approach to protecting your business. Managed SOCs are not just about algorithms and automation but about people—skilled professionals committed to continuously safeguarding your digital assets.
Why Managed SOCs Matter?
52% of businesses believe managed service providers can provide better security operations than their organization. Thus, managed SOC is important for organizations to access the latest security tools and expertise without constantly updating systems and keeping their data secure.
Expert Team
A Managed SOC gives you access to skilled security experts who monitor and protect your systems to detect and handle threats quickly. Whether it’s detecting suspicious activities or responding to security incidents, they make your business environment secure and optimized.
Meet Compliance
Managed SOC helps businesses meet security compliance standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and ISO 27001. This reduces the risk of fines and penalties, giving businesses peace of mind and allowing them to focus on growing their business.
Affordable
Outsourcing to a Managed SOC is often more cost-effective than building and maintaining an in-house security team. This helps organizations reduce overhead costs and avoid the expenses of hiring, training, and retaining specialized security staff.
Increased Efficiency
Managed SOC services are ideal for smaller organizations focusing on improving their products and services while experts handle their data security needs. This removes the burden of continually maintaining and managing the in-house team.
Managed SOC vs MDR vs MSSP
Many SME’s and large enterprises struggle with the constant threat of cyberattacks. They often react to incidents only when they occur, making their data vulnerable to hackers.
MDR only focuses on detecting and responding to threats, leaving gaps in their security systems. However, Managed SOC provides 24/7 monitoring, real-time threat management, and comprehensive protection against data breaches, even before exploitation.
MSSP (Managed Security Service Provider) is a third-party provider offering comprehensive cybersecurity services to manage and monitor your business’s security infrastructure. They handle end-to-end security management, including monitoring of endpoints, firewalls, DDoS protection, vulnerability management, and threat detection. MSSPs are ideal for larger organizations that need a complete, customizable, and scalable security solution to protect their systems, data, and networks.
| Features | MDR | Managed SOC | MSSP |
| Expertise | 24/7 Threat Hunting & Response Skills. | Broader Security Skills (Monitoring, Compliance and management) | Full security management & support. |
| Tools | Utilize security tools including EDR, XDR, SIEM, etc. | Advanced security tools including SIEM, firewalls, IDS/IPS, vulnerability scanners, etc. | Advanced security tools including data protection, DDoS, network security, patch management etc. |
| Management | Fully Outsourced | Can be in-house, fully outsourced, or co-managed. | Fully Outsourced, managing end-to-end security infrastructure. |
| Cost | Less Expensive, ideal for SME’s. | Requires big investment but affordable for larger businesses. | Costs can vary depending on the services offered. |
| Customization | Follows a standard approach. | More customizable to fit specific business needs. | Highly customizable based on organizational needs. |
With Increasing Threats to Organizations, Should You Build or Buy Your SOC?
Security is an utmost priority for any organization when it comes to overall financial planning and budgeting. When CIOs and CISOs start planning their organizational budget, they must keep security at the forefront of the conversation.
Threat detection, Response, and mitigation efforts should be integral to the enterprise’s security operations. This is achieved through a Security Operations Center (SOC). As per CrowdStrike, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are more frequent targets of cybercrime than larger companies.
Organizations must consider whether it is worth investing in an internal SOC or outsourcing their SOC needs to an experienced Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) to ensure they stay ahead of evolving threats.
An in-house SOC requires heavy investment in staff, tools, and training but provides full control over operations. Whereas, a managed SOC offers immediate expertise, affordability, and access to the latest technologies without the overhead costs.
In either case, invest in the right solution tailored to your needs to protect your business against cyber threats. This will help you make informed decisions and manage potential threats effectively.
Also Read: Managed Security Services for Accountants – What They Need to Know
Debunking the Common Misconception
Now, you might wonder – isn’t outsourcing my cybersecurity operations risky? Won’t I lose control over my sensitive data? These are valid concerns, but Managed SOC providers prioritize transparency and collaboration.
Think of it as having an extended team of security experts working alongside your internal IT staff. You retain ultimate control over your cybersecurity strategy while benefiting from external partners’ specialized knowledge and resources.
The Human Touch Behind the Technology
Managed SOC is a team of dedicated professionals passionate about protecting your business. From security analysts and engineers to threat hunters and incident responders, their commitment goes beyond just monitoring alerts and analyzing data.
They understand your unique business needs and proactively identify potential risks before exploitation. Thus, this builds trust and collaboration to ensure your business is safe and secure.
Partner with Ace Cloud for Managed SOC Services
Cybercriminals are finding new ways to steal data and exploit your system, but one thing remains constant—the need for proactive protection. With Managed SOCs, you’re not just investing in technology; you’re investing in the safety and security of your business.
Gain enterprise-grade security with continuous monitoring, expert threat detection, and response.
Ace Cloud hosting provides a 24x7x365 security operations center staffed by industry-leading experts to continuously monitor your network and offer a practical approach to cybersecurity for businesses to stay one step ahead of cyber threats.
But don’t just take our word for it! Schedule a free security consultation today and discover how we can help you protect your sensitive data and make your systems more secure and efficient.
