If you’re running an SMB and someone has dropped “SOC” into a meeting, it’s easy to switch off. SOC stands for Security Operations Centre, but that definition doesn’t help much on its own. Here’s the meaning behind “SOC” and what it can do for your business

What is a SOC? Security Operations Centre explained for UK SMBs

A Security Operations Centre, or SOC, is the team, tools and processes that watch your IT 24/7, look for suspicious behaviour, investigate alerts and contain incidents before they become expensive disasters. It is less about fancy hardware and more about reliable detection and fast, repeatable response.

What does a SOC do in practice? 5 core SOC functions for SMEs

• Continuous monitoring of endpoints, servers, cloud apps (like Microsoft 365), logs and identity systems
• Detects threats: phishing that got through, odd logins, ransomware activity
• Triages alerts to separate noise from real threats
• Investigates and responds by isolating devices, resetting accounts, or blocking malicious traffic
• Learns and improves by tuning rules, updating playbooks and running tabletop exercises

For most SMEs the big win is time. Detecting problems quickly and acting before attackers move or take data.

SOC vs SIEM vs MDR: Which Does Your Business Need?

• SIEM is a tool that collects and analyses logs. Useful, but pointless alone
• SOC is people, process and tools using SIEM (and others) to protect you
• MDR (Managed Detection and Response) is an outsourced SOC service. Often the most practical route for small businesses

Do you need a SOC? 6 Signs Your Business Needs 24/7 Security Monitoring

Not every business needs to build one. But you probably need the outcomes a SOC provides if you:

• Store client data or sensitive information
• Use cloud services (Microsoft 365/Azure) heavily
• Face regulatory questions (Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO 27001)
• Cannot staff nights and weekends but want real protection

If any of those sound familiar, a managed or co-managed SOC is usually the sweet spot.

How to Get Started With a SOC for SMBs

Most small businesses choose a managed or co-managed option. That gives you 24/7 detection and incident response without hiring analysts or buying enterprise licences. Onboarding usually involves scoping important systems and agreeing response processes.

SOC Benefits and Costs: What to Expect 

The benefit is not just prevention. It is reducing dwell time (how long an attacker stays undetected) and cutting the impact of incidents.

Three Cherries: How We Can Help With a SOC

If you want any more information regarding SOCs and how your business may look if you implemented one into your processes, get in touch! At Three Cherries we can run through the things you need to know and what costs may be involved. At Three Cherries, we take the gamble out of business technology.