Security operations centre (SOC): defending UK education and research
As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, we are taking a proactive stance to help our members navigate the challenges of protecting their valuable digital assets.
![Focused male computer programmer working on laptop at desk in office](https://jisc-ac-uk-static-assets-prod.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/media/original_images/focused-male-computer-programmer-working-on-laptop-at-desk-in-office.jpg)
Started
Expected outcome:
New service
Institutions face the challenge of protecting digital assets against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. The need for robust cybersecurity measures is more critical than ever. Our new security operations centre (SOC) will help our members to navigate these challenges. Our cybersecurity experts will detect, analyse and respond to security incidents in real time.
We are committed to staying ahead of threat actors and strengthening the cybersecurity of the UK’s institutions. Our SOC is built in collaboration with industry-leading partners. We aim to leverage cutting-edge technology to provide the most effective protection against emerging threats.
Key features
24/7 threat monitoring and response
Our sector-specific experts will offer continuous threat detection and response. We monitor your security infrastructure round the clock to quickly identify unusual activity.
Industry-leading technology
Our leading partnerships help us to be able to react quickly and in a seamless operation. Our SOC will collect and analyse data from across your entire IT environment, providing a comprehensive security solution. This includes networks, devices, and critical information systems.
Proactive threat detection
Our SOC team will monitor networks, systems, and applications to spot potential vulnerabilities and detect malicious activity. This approach helps to prevent incidents before they can cause significant harm.
Rapid incident response
When a security incident is detected, our SOC team will act to contain the threat and minimise damage. This reduces the overall impact on your institution.
Trusted partnership
We are your trusted sector partner. Our SOC will offer collaborative defence to share intelligence and enhance security across the education and research sector. We will provide you with enhanced control over your security systems, helping you stay one step ahead of cyber threats.
Streamlined alerts
To prevent overwhelming you with alerts, our SOC team will triage each one. We determine which threats are genuine and need your attention. This ensures that your time and resources are focused on the most critical issues.
Benefits of a managed SOC
Compliance assurance
Our SOC will help your organisation to meet regulatory requirements and follow data protection laws. We will apply security best practices and industry-standard frameworks.
Improved security posture
Our SOC's advanced technology, skilled personnel, and defined processes will help your institution to maintain a strong security posture against evolving threats.
Resource efficiency
By opting for our managed SOC, we handle the day-to-day monitoring and incident response and free up your internal teams to focus on strategic initiatives. This approach is both cost-effective and efficient, allowing you to maximise your resources.
Timeline of the SOC Project
- SOC PoC start: November 2023
- SOC PoC expansion: May 2024
- SOC live beta: November 2024
- SOC full launch: March 2025
Stay informed about the latest developments in our SOC by subscribing to updates on the security operations centre. Together, we can defend as one.
Join our SOC beta programme
As the SOC transitions from proof of concept to beta, we invite you to take part in its development and delivery. Joining our beta programme gives you early access to innovations, collaboratation with Jisc and other institutions, and will help to shape the final service. Participants will benefit from discounted EDR licensing, security assessments, and bespoke pricing for the full service once it goes live.
Contact your relationship manager for more information or to register your interest.
Requirements for participation:
- Use or plan to implement a supported EDR, specifically Microsoft Defender or CrowdStrike Falcon
- Complete a technical pre-onboarding questionnaire to assess readiness for service
- Implement Jisc’s JNRS protective DNS service
Our project partners
Meet the project team
Steve Howard
Head of product – cyber, JiscJess Francis
Head of product and portfolio, JiscPaul Knee
Head of protective services, JiscSimon Cooper
Security operations manager, Jisc