In the modern era of cybercrime, businesses must stay ahead of evolving threats. To ensure the security of their digital assets, organizations are turning to security models that have emerged as vital tools for safeguarding their systems against digital threats. Two security models currently used are SOC-as-a-Service (SOCaaS) and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR). Tools are essential in managing cybersecurity operations to detect, investigate, and respond to threats. This article explains the functionality, benefits, and limitations of both SOCaaS and EDR as tools for safeguarding businesses’ security.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) is a tool cybersecurity professionals use to detect, investigate, and respond to cyber threats. EDR operates on endpoint devices such as desktops, laptops, servers, IoT, and mobile devices. The system monitors threat events continuously and alerts security analysts. The system uses comprehensive data analysis, forensic analysis, and threat intelligence visibility to provide detailed reports of threats to the organization’s digital environment. EDR systems are critical in shortening response times and minimizing risk exposure.
EDR solutions have been implemented by many industry-leading vendors such as Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks. Cortex XDR is a data-driven EDR platform that provides businesses with an integrated security stack to monitor advanced cyber threats. Cortex XDR is a technology-agnostic software-based service that provides SOC teams with a centralized management environment to manage and improve security operations.
EDR tools like Cortex XDR have a range of features that facilitate security analysts’ day-to-day work. These features include:
- Threat Intelligence Visibility
- Continuous Monitoring
- Endpoint Security
- Forensics
- Threat Detection
- Threat Response
Using EDR tools in combination with traditional security models such as SIEM can provide businesses with a more proactive and efficient security posture
Extended Detection and Response (XDR)
Extended Detection and Response (XDR) is an advanced security model that builds on EDR features and capabilities. XDR offers an integrated approach to threat detection and response by integrating diverse data sources such as network, cloud, and endpoint data.
XDR capabilities include:
- Endpoint Detection and Response
- Threat Intelligence
- Forensic Analysis
- Asset Discovery
- Network Detection and Response
- Cloud Security
By integrating these capabilities, XDR can provide organizations with an all-encompassing view of their digital environment, enabling them to identify advanced cyber threats, insider threats, ransomware, and more. Unlike EDR, which is endpoint-focused, XDR provides businesses with complete protection across all digital assets.
Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks is again a top-tier solution for XDR. The platform provides businesses with a holistic view of their security operations and supports augmented security teams in identifying and remediating advanced cyber threats. Cortex XDR combines endpoint, network, and cloud data sources into one platform. This allows SOC teams to investigate, remediate and respond effectively to breaches.
SOC-as-a-Service (SOCaaS)
SOC-as-a-Service (SOCaaS) is a subscription-based security model, where a third-party provider operates and maintains a fully-managed SOC via the cloud. The SOCaaS provider manages cybersecurity operations such as asset discovery, incident response, intrusion detection, log management, vulnerability assessment, and threat detection for the business.
SOCaaS providers commonly have highly-skilled cybersecurity experts who have access to state-of-the-art equipment to conduct real-time monitoring and analysis of potential threat events. SOCaaS services such as cWatch Managed Detection and Response (MDR) by Comodo Cybersecurity, include round-the-clock monitoring services to provide uninterrupted 24/7 protection.
SOCaaS benefits include:
- Cost Savings
- Compliance with Regulations
- Access to Expert Cybersecurity Teams
- Greater Scalability
- Uninterrupted Coverage
- Flexibility
- Pay-as-you-go Consumption Basis
- Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
Unlike traditional SOC models, which may require on-premise SOC support, SOCaaS is a cloud-based subscription model that provides businesses with increased scalability and flexibility. Cloud-based SOCaaS vendors such as ClearNetwork offer cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes.
However, like any security model, SOCaaS has its limitations. For instance, onboarding processes and the release of sensitive data to a third-party vendor can pose security risks. Despite these limitations, SOCaaS is an excellent security option that offers businesses the expertise, experience, and technology to keep their digital environment secure from evolving threats.
The use of SOC-as-a-Service and Endpoint Detection and Response tools are essential in safeguarding businesses from cyber threats. EDR is ideal for detecting, investigating, and responding to threats. XDR integrates endpoint, network, and cloud data sources to identify and remediate advanced cyber threats. SOCaaS is ideal for businesses that require more than just security response but need third-party vendors’ cybersecurity expertise. These subscription-based services offer cost-effective, flexible, and scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes.
The use of these models will continue to grow, allowing organizations to strengthen their defenses against emerging threats and comply with evolving compliance and regulation mandates. Ultimately, whether it is traditional SOC models, XDR, or SOCaaS, cybersecurity protection must be a top priority for businesses to ensure digital safety.
