Palo Alto Networks Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET)Security OperationsHard

A large multinational corporation operates several Security Operations Centers (SOCs) in different geographical regions. Each regional SOC monitors local assets and reports to a central coordinating SOC. This model aims to leverage local expertise while maintaining overall corporate oversight. Which type of SOC model does this scenario best represent?

  1. AVirtual SOC
  2. BCentralized SOC
  3. CCo-managed SOC
  4. DDistributed SOC
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Distributed SOC

A Distributed SOC model involves multiple, geographically dispersed SOCs, each responsible for specific regions or business units, that report up to a central coordinating SOC. This allows for localized expertise and faster response times while maintaining a unified security posture across the entire organization.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. A virtual SOC is often a smaller, sometimes outsourced, team that operates remotely without a dedicated physical facility.
  • B. A centralized SOC has all operations managed from a single location.
  • C. A co-managed SOC typically involves an organization sharing security responsibilities with an external Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP).

Distributed SOC Model

A Distributed SOC model consists of multiple Security Operations Centers (SOCs) located in different geographical regions or business units, each handling local security operations, while reporting and coordinating with a central SOC for overall strategy and oversight.

  • Multiple regional SOCs.
  • Centralized coordination/reporting.
  • Leverages local expertise, global consistency.

Memory trick: Centralized, Distributed, Co-managed, Virtual: Choose Your SOC's Structure Wisely.

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