Are SOC and NOC the Same?What You Need to Know?

Have you ever wondered why your company has both a Security Operations Center and a Network Operations Center? If you thought they were just two fancy names for the same thing, you’re in for a surprise! However, there are differences between SOC and NOC operations centers. The NOC functions similarly to highway traffic management, ensuring network accessibility and smooth data transmission between connected platforms. Whereas the SOC is much like a police department. As it monitors cyber threats as its law enforcement division to protect networks against intruders. But what’s the SOC bs NOC war?

Still confused? So there is no need to worry! As this blog explores the SOC vs NOC comparison using clear explanations.

SOC vs NOC Comparison

What Is an NOC?

However, the smooth functionality of an organization’s  IT network depends on the Network Operations Center team. Because they perform ongoing network observation and active management tasks to maintain system performance. 

Moreover, within the background operations, the NOC team handles complete custody of network functions including server performance alongside connectivity maintenance responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities of a NOC

Network operations centers monitor active network streams for signs that indicate performance failure.

As team members manage essential network instruments which include routers switches and firewalls.

1. Firstly, ensuring uptime and availability of network services
2. Moreover, identifying the troubleshooting outages and latency problems
3. The team executes responsibility to manage disaster recovery plans in addition to backups.
4. Further, coordinating with Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

How NOCs Work?

The NOC functions as a round-the-clock operation containing analysts and network engineers who keep a constant watch on network systems. As Network Administrators operate with SolarWinds, and PRTG alongside their tools to uphold smooth system functionality. So network failures trigger NOC team members to quickly resume service operation.

Imagine trains moving at high speeds that connect two different cities. So through operations management activities, the NOC facilitates clear tracks alongside working signals.

What Is a SOC?

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is the cybersecurity command center of an organization. As it includes detection alongside analysis. Moreover, security threat response needs to be a main priority of this system. 

Further, a SOC protects the network by searching out malicious activity while the NOC maintains overall operational stability and smooth functions.

Key Responsibilities of a SOC

1. Firstly, monitoring security threats and vulnerabilities
2. The team must both examine security alerts and react to happenings when incidents occur.
3. Moreover, preventing and mitigating cyberattacks
4. Conducting threat intelligence and forensic investigations
5. Furthermore, ensuring compliance with security regulations
6. Managing firewalls, antivirus, and SIEM solutions

How SOCs Work

Security operations centers use Security Information and Event Management tools from Splunk, IBM QRadar and ArcSight for threat detection functions. Moreover, SOC investigators examine suspicious system events which include unlawful access attempts and data breaches together with phishing attacks.

However, advanced banking facilities rely on motion sensors and security cameras along with alarm systems to create their protective framework. So SOC functions as security guards. Hence, monitoring all activities while instantly taking action when someone attempts unauthorized entry. 

SOC vs. NOC

So now that we know what each center does. Let’s compare them side by side!

Feature	NOC (Network Operations Center)	SOC (Security Operations Center)
Primary Focus	Network performance & uptime	Cybersecurity & threat detection
Main Concern	Network reliability & speed	Security threats & data protection
Common Tools	PRTG, Nagios, SolarWinds	Splunk, IBM QRadar, ArcSight
Response Type	Fixes performance issues	Investigates & stop cyber threats
Team Expertise	Network engineers & IT support	Cybersecurity analysts & threat hunter
Operating Hours	24/7 network monitoring	24/7 security monitoring
Key Goal	Minimize downtime & optimize network	Protect company data & prevent breaches

Why Both NOC Vs SOC Are Essential

However, multiple organizations try to combine SOC and NOC functions within a single team due to financial savings. Big mistake! 

As the IT infrastructure management tasks from each team demand unique combinations of essential abilities, operational methods, and resource distribution. So here’s why both are essential:

1. The rising frequency of cyber threats requires both NOC and SOC networks because NOCs lack the capabilities to respond to modern cyberattacks.
2. However, the system’s downtime creates operational challenges. Yet an SOC cannot fix network disruptions while NOC professionals maintain continuous network functionality.
3. Responsibilities split between separate NOC and SOC result in faster response times than if a team performs both functions.

NOC and SOC Should be In-House vs. Outsourced?

However, many businesses struggle with the decision to build in-house teams or outsource to an MSSP (Managed Security Services Provider). So here’s a quick comparison:

Factor	In-House NOC/SOC	Outsourced to MSSP
Cost	High (salaries, tools, training)	Lower, subscription-based
Expertise	Requires hiring specialized staff	MSSPs provide certified professionals
Response Time	Dependent on team availability	24/7 monitoring and rapid response
Scalability	Limited by resources	Easily scales with business needs

SOC and NOC Working Together

However, for secure and efficient IT environments both SOC and NOC teams need to team up for shared success. So here’s how they work together:

1. Incident Response Coordination: If a network slowdown from a cyberattack triggers SOC alerts to direct NOC teams into performance restoration operations.
2. Threat Intelligence: However, sharing occurs when the SOC team delivers security findings to the NOC team in order to stop further incidents.
3. Joint IT Training & Drills: The ongoing practice of cybersecurity drills combined with IT training between organizations helps both teams prepare for authentic cyber threats.
4. Comprehensive IT Reports: Moreover, the teams collaboratively produce detailed IT reports that assist organizations in achieving security improvements.

Conclusion

You should understand SOC vs NOC and their role very well at this point. As NOC makes sure your IT systems operate without interruption while an SOC defends networks through cybersecurity protection. So both information management services are required for your business to operate efficiently, securely, and simultaneously.

Moreover, working with an MSSP enables businesses to access advanced network protection services at prices lower than internal costs. Getting your organization protected before a network failure or cyberattack damages your business operations should be your top priority. Because your company needs to implement correct SOC and NOC strategies.