MDR vs. SOC
MDR is a provider model for detection and response. A SOC is an operational capability – run internally or as a hybrid. The decision depends on resources, governance, and response readiness.
From practice: Many organizations start with MDR to quickly build detection capability. Later, some switch to a hybrid model or internal SOC as complexity and compliance requirements grow.
Quick comparison
Ownership
MDR: External service, provider-managed
SOC: Internal team, hybrid, or co-managed
Tasks
MDR: Detect & respond (focused)
SOC: Operational security operations (broad)
Integration
MDR: Fast start, standardized
SOC: Deeper embedding, customized
Outputs
MDR: Alerts + recommendations
SOC: Continuous ops + use-case development
Fits / Does not fit
MDR fits if …
- Limited internal security capacity exists
- Fast detection capability needs to be built
- Clear SLAs and response windows are desired
- 24/7 coverage without own shift model is needed
SOC fits if …
- High complexity and custom use cases exist
- Critical infrastructure or strict compliance requirements
- Long-term security operations function is planned
- Full control over data and processes is required
MDR does not fit if …
- No internal ownership for escalations exists
- Highly sensitive data cannot be processed externally
- Custom detection logic is mandatory
SOC does not fit if …
- Budget or staff for 24/7 operations is missing
- Fast start is more important than deep control
- No capacity for use-case development exists
Detailed comparison
| Aspect | MDR | SOC |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | External (provider) | Internal or hybrid |
| Focus | Detection & response | Broad security operations |
| Setup time | Weeks | Months to years |
| Staffing needs | Low (escalation) | High (shift operations) |
| Cost | Predictable (subscription) | High (staff, tools, operations) |
| Flexibility | Standardized | Fully customizable |
| Data control | At provider | Internal |
| 24/7 coverage | Included | Requires shift model |
Hybrid model: Best of both worlds?
Co-managed SOC / Hybrid
Many organizations combine MDR with internal security staff: The provider handles 24/7 monitoring and initial response, the internal team manages escalation, use-case development, and governance. This reduces staffing overhead while maintaining control.
Common pitfalls (from practice)
- MDR without internal ownership (no one reacts to escalations)
- SOC without adequate budget or staff (burnout, gaps)
- Alert flood without playbooks or escalation paths
- Unclear responsibilities between MDR provider and internal team
- Missing integration into existing IT processes
Practice tip
Define clear escalation paths and responsibilities before starting. Who decides during an incident? Who has access to which systems? These questions must be clarified before go-live.
What you get
MDR delivers
- 24/7 monitoring and alerting
- Initial response and containment
- Regular reports and dashboards
- Defined SLAs and response times
SOC delivers
- Continuous security operations
- Custom use-case development
- Deep integration into IT processes
- Full control over data and response
What neither provides
Does not replace asset management
Does not replace risk prioritization
Does not work without logging coverage
Does not fix structural architecture problems
Decision check
- Do we have capacity for 24/7 operations and maintenance?
- Do we need speed or deeper control?
- Who decides during an incident?
- Can data be processed externally?
- How customized do detection rules need to be?
Decision guide
MDR first: If you need detection capability fast and cannot build a 24/7 team.
SOC first: If you need full control, custom use cases, and long-term security operations.
Next steps
- Define goal: Fast start or long-term operations?
- Check capacity: Staff for escalation/operations available?
- Clarify data sovereignty: External processing possible?
- Set budget and timeline
Next step with us
Briefly describe your situation. We help assess the right operating model. Note: We advise on selection, but do not operate our own SOC or MDR.
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