Cyber-attacks on small to medium-sized businesses are becoming more frequent. One solution is to develop a Security Operation Center (SOC). A SOC consolidates people, tools, and processes to boost cybersecurity in an organization.
Here are some factors to consider before hiring a SOC provider:
Functions of a SOC
A SOC may be composed of management, security analysts, and engineers. The primary goal is to monitor and respond rapidly to incidences of cybersecurity breaches.
Traditionally, SOCs were situated within the organization’s facility. Today, many SOCs can be virtual or a hybrid of virtual and in-house personnel. Small businesses opt for the hybrid model as it is more convenient for coordinating responses to security threats.
Analysis and Real-time Reporting
As the number of cyber breaches increases, your company should have a comprehensive response plan to address threats promptly. In addition, SOCs must provide a portal where your security team can analyze real-time reports.
Ideally, the portal should have analytics and visuals to facilitate fast decision-making. The SOC services applications must also be customizable for different departments and personnel. In addition, the quality of the analytics and reporting will reinforce your incident response plan.
Communications and Round the Clock Availability
Before choosing a SOC provider, ask about their incidence response time. You ought to address the cybersecurity breach as soon as they occur. Otherwise, your business will lose customers.
Statistics indicate 82% of customers expect an immediate response after a sales inquiry. Delays in restoring your system can project a negative image for your company.
Therefore, you ought to ensure your SOC services provider is available 24/7 throughout the year. The service should monitor your IT systems day and night. ConnectWise provides timely feedback through email and cellphone.
Threat Response Integration and Modeling
One decision you’ll need to make is how to integrate the SOC solution into your IT systems. There should be a clear separation between the SOC and the in-house IT security team. The distinction enables everyone to understand the role of the SOC.
Your company’s policy is just one of the factors that can influence SOC integration and modeling. Is the primary goal compliance? Do you use the cloud extensively? Are you planning to deploy an on-premises or a hybrid system?
If your primary objective is to identify specific threats, you may need a provider with specialized skills. Compliance will require a service provider with experience and the proper credentials for your location.
Customized Services from Your SOC Provider
A one-size-fits-all model is not ideal for most small businesses. Cyber breaches are evolving continually. So you will need a provider that is flexible enough for your requirements.
Third parties have been collecting information while dealing with cyber breaches in other companies. The right tools can protect your business from attacks. Be sure to check the credentials and customer retention statistics before hiring a SOC provider.
Monitoring your IT infrastructure can prevent threats that could impact your business. A SOC provider can also address cyber breaches to minimize their impact. Ask for certifications such as CSSP or Security + before choosing a service provider.
