Functions, Pricing, ROI, Use Cases

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) is a cybersecurity service that provides 24/7 threat monitoring, detection, and response, combining advanced security tools with expert analysis to protect organizations from cyber threats. SOC as a service is a solution that offers capabilities of a dedicated internal security team through an external provider.

Is SOC as a Service an Alternative to MDR?

It’s important to note that SOC as a service isn’t necessarily an alternative to Managed Detection and Response (MDR), but rather a human-driven component of an MDR service. MDR solution providers, often, empower you with SOC as a Service, so you don’t have to search for a security team elsewhere.

Think of it this way: SOC as a service provides the eyes and brains, while MDR provides the muscle to actively respond to threats. This synergy allows organizations to benefit from continuous monitoring, expert analysis, and swift remediation.

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MDR vs. SOC as a Service: Which Is Right For You?

The right choice between MDR and SOC as a Service depends on your existing security capabilities and the level of protection you need.

If you have an in-house security team capable of handling threats but need support with monitoring and analysis, SOC as a Service can enhance your defenses by providing alerts and insights.

However, if your organization lacks dedicated security experts or requires a more hands-on approach, MDR offers a complete solution by not only detecting threats but actively responding to them.

Essentially, SOC as a Service helps you see the threats, while MDR ensures they are contained and eliminated.


	Continuous Monitoring & Threat Analysis	Proactive Threat Hunting, Detection, & Response
	Access to security analists	Dedicated MDR analyst team with specialized skills
	Alerts and Recommendations	Active Threat Remediation and Containment
	SIEM, Threat Intelligence Feeds	Advanced Tools: AI, Machine Learning, EDR
	Identifying Potential Threats	Minimizing Impact of Threats
	Detection can be limited without additional tools	More comprehensive detection capabilities, including internal threats
	Can be customized to a degree	Highly customizable to specific needs and environments

SOC team + MDR services for the healthcare leader: €5,400,000 saved daily

MDR + SOC saves €5mln for healthcare leader - view case study

Comparing SOC as a Service and MDR Pricing

Pricing for both SOC as a Service and MDR can vary based on the size of your organization, the complexity of your environment, and the specific features and services included.

SOC as a Service pricing often follows a tiered model based on the number of devices or users being monitored. Basic plans may start around $5,000 – $10,000 per month, while more comprehensive plans can range from $20,000 to $50,000+ per month.

MDR pricing is typically more customized, taking into account the level of threat hunting, incident response, and other advanced services provided. MDR services can range from $10,000 to $100,000+ per month, depending on the scope and complexity of the engagement.


	$5,000 – $10,000/month (basic monitoring, alerting)	$10,000 – $30,000/month (24/7 monitoring, incident response)
	$10,000 – $25,000/month (enhanced monitoring, threat intelligence)	$30,000 – $60,000/month (proactive threat hunting, vulnerability management)
	$25,000 – $50,000+/month (customized solutions, compliance reporting)	$60,000 – $100,000+/month (advanced threat intelligence, customized incident response)

Benchmark costs and understand the value proposition of each service for your case.

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Comparing ROI from SOC as a Service vs. ROI from MDR

Calculating the Return on Investment (ROI) for SOC as a Service and MDR involves considering both the direct costs of the service and the potential savings from avoided security incidents.


	Reduced need for in-house security personnel, lower infrastructure costs.	Faster incident response times, reduced impact of successful attacks, lower long-term costs associated with data breaches.
	Frees up internal IT staff to focus on other priorities.	Allows internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives while MDR handles day-to-day security operations.
	Improved threat detection capabilities, enhanced security posture.	Proactive threat hunting and rapid incident response significantly reduce the risk of successful attacks and data breaches.
	Helps meet regulatory compliance requirements	Ensures continuous compliance monitoring and reporting, reducing the risk of fines and penalties.
	Enhanced security posture improves customer trust and protects brand reputation.	Demonstrates a proactive commitment to security, enhancing trust and confidence among customers and stakeholders.

Remember to consider the potential costs of not investing in adequate cybersecurity, such as data breach fines, reputational damage, and business disruption.

SOC as a Service and MDR Use Cases for Different Industries and Tech Stacks

The best choice between SOC as a Service and MDR often depends on your specific industry and the complexity of your technology stack.

Organizations with Complex IT Environments. MDR can provide the specialized expertise and resources needed to protect complex networks, cloud environments, and applications.

Small Businesses. SOC as a Service can be a cost-effective option for basic security monitoring and alerting.

Mid-sized Businesses. MDR provides a more comprehensive solution with proactive threat hunting and incident response.

Highly Regulated Industries (e.g., Finance, Healthcare. MDR is often the preferred choice due to its enhanced security posture and compliance capabilities.

1. Should I use SOC as a Service or MDR if I already have some security tools in place?

Both SOC as a Service and MDR can integrate with your existing security infrastructure. MDR, however, typically offers deeper integration and can leverage your existing tools more effectively.

2. How quickly can I get up and running with SOC as a Service and MDR?

SOC as a Service can often be deployed relatively quickly, while MDR may require a more thorough onboarding process to ensure proper integration and customization.

3. SOC as a Service vs. MDR: what requires more involvement from my internal team?

SOC as a Service typically requires more involvement from your internal team to respond to alerts, while MDR provides a more hands-off approach with proactive incident response.

4. Are MDR and SOC as a Service only for large enterprises?

No, MDR, just like SOC as a service, is becoming increasingly accessible to businesses of all sizes. Many providers offer scalable solutions that can be tailored to fit the needs and budgets of smaller organizations..