Security operations: Detect, respond, prevent – Round-the-clock protection for your IT environment.

Security operations form a cornerstone of modern IT security. Their purpose is to identify security incidents at an early stage, assess them accurately, and respond effectively. Central to this are continuous monitoring, reliable threat detection, and swift incident response.
This involves establishing and operating a Security Operations Centre (SOC), which monitors and analyses security-related events 24/7. The SOC is supported by threat intelligence and incident response and forensics. Threat intelligence refers to the systematic collection and analysis of information on emerging threats, enabling proactive defence measures. Incident response and forensics focuses on resolving security incidents and conducting forensic investigations to uncover the causes and consequences of an attack.
The approach is complemented by structured vulnerability scanning, which identifies, evaluates, prioritises, and sustainably remediates security vulnerabilities in IT systems and applications.

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Benefits of security operations at a glance:

Swift detection and response to security incidents – Around the clock

Automated defence mechanisms ensure minimal response times

Holistic protection through SOC, incident response, and forensic analysis

Maximum visibility through targeted vulnerability assessments.

Threat landscape and need for action.

Attackers are becoming increasingly sophisticated and faster—driven in part by the use of artificial intelligence. While preventive measures remain essential, detection and response have become critical and must be systematically strengthened. Automation plays a key role in reducing both the Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and the Mean Time to Respond (MTTR).

Technology alone is not enough. What’s needed is a holistic approach built around an SOC model that integrates experienced security analysts, digital forensics and response capabilities. For many organisations—particularly in the mid-market—developing these competencies in-house is rarely feasible, which is why partnering with specialised providers is strongly recommended.

At the core – The Bechtle Cyber Defence Centre (CDC).

The Bechtle Cyber Defence Centre (CDC) delivers round-the-clock monitoring of our customers’ IT environments, correlates and prioritises alerts, and initiates targeted responses—either manually by experienced analysts or fully automated via SOAR playbooks.

The Bechtle Cyber Defence Centre’s (CDC) service portfolio*.

SOC operations as a coordinated interplay of technology, people, and processes
Technology-agnostic approach for flexible integration of all security solutions
Automation for rapid analysis and containment of threats
Incident response for effective resolution of security incidents
Digital forensics for root cause analysis and legally compliant documentation
Recovery and lessons learned to ensure a high level of cyber resilience

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*In collaboration with Bechtle system houses

Incident response and forensics – Taking action when it matters most.

As a certified APT response provider recognised by the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), Bechtle supports both existing and prospective customers precisely when swift, expert intervention is needed. The focus is on rapid incident analysis and containment—and, crucially, on learning from every attack.

The insights gained are fed directly into our highly automated processes: Which indicators (IoA/IoC) were relevant? Which techniques and tactics were used? What measures can be derived from this? To maximise effectiveness, we don’t operate in isolation. Instead, we collaborate closely with our technology partners and the wider Bechtle network.

Extra: XDR vs SOC vs Penetration Testing.

XDR (Extended Detection and Response) consolidates data from multiple security sources to detect attacks more quickly. An SOC (Security Operations Centre) is the central organisational unit that continuously monitors, assesses, and responds to such threats. Penetration testing simulates real-world attacks to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors. Together, these approaches provide comprehensive protection—from prevention to response.

Vulnerability scanning – Identifying and addressing risks.

Vulnerability scanning is an essential component of security operations. Whether using traditional CVE scanners or modern approaches such as adversarial exposure validation, Bechtle systematically identifies vulnerabilities.

Our approach:

Comprehensive visibility into vulnerabilities across IT systems and applications
Risk-based prioritisation of identified issues
Continuous optimisation of the security architecture

Find out more about vulnerability management in the whitepaper.
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Pen testing – Thinking like an attacker.

Penetration tests are a highly effective complement to SOC monitoring and incident response. Unlike continuous monitoring or reactive support, they target areas where real risks are likely to emerge.

Under realistic conditions, we simulate attacks to uncover technical vulnerabilities, logical flaws, misconfigurations, and potential attack paths—including those involving user interactions such as phishing. Our ethical hackers operate like real attackers, but within a clearly defined framework, with the goal of measurably improving your security posture.

The result is an objective assessment of the actual risk to your IT environment. Instead of generic vulnerability scans, you receive well-founded, prioritised findings along with concrete technical and organisational recommendations. If desired, we present the results directly to specialist departments or executive management—helping to raise awareness and secure budgets.