Introduction to student security operations centers (SOCs)

Learn what a security operations center (SOC) is, key roles like analysts and threat hunters, and how SOCs detect, respond to, and recover from cyber threats.
Upon completion of this module, you'll be able to:
- Explain the purpose and importance of security operations centers (SOCs) in cybersecurity.
- Identify the key functions and roles within SOCs.
- Recognize common cybersecurity threats and how real-world student SOCs mitigate them.
UNESCO Standards for Educators:
- Organization and Administration
Learn how SOC teams use tools like SIEM, SOAR, XDR, and AI to detect and respond to cyber threats using Microsoft's unified security platform.
Upon completion of this module, you'll be able to:
- Describe the capabilities and features of Microsoft SOC tools and technologies.
- Identify how Microsoft's comprehensive solutions integrate with SOC operations.
- Explain the benefits of using AI like Security Copilot in cybersecurity and SOC operations.
UNESCO Standards for Educators:
- Organization and Administration
Practice responding to real-world SOC scenarios using Security Copilot and Microsoft security tools that detect, investigate, and mitigate cybersecurity threats.
Upon completion of this module, you'll be able to:
- Recognize how Security Copilot and Microsoft security tools are used in real-world SOC scenarios.
- Describe how security teams analyze and respond to simulated incidents using Microsoft tools and Security Copilot.
- Understand how critical thinking skills are applied in cybersecurity contexts.
UNESCO Standards for Educators:
- Organization and Administration
Explore cybersecurity careers in security operations centers. Learn about key SOC roles, required skills, and best practices to start your path in cybersecurity.
Upon completion of this module, you'll be able to:
- Identify best practices for effective SOC operations.
- Describe the ethical considerations in cybersecurity.
- Articulate cybersecurity career opportunities and pathways.
UNESCO Standards for Educators:
- Organization and Administration

Syllabus

Understand security operations centers (SOCs) to manage cybersecurity
- Introduction
- What is a SOC?
- Why are SOCs important?
- What roles exist in a SOC?
- What does a SOC look like?
- Module assessment
- Summary
Explore SOC tools and technologies with Microsoft Security
- Introduction
- What tools does a SOC use?
- How do Microsoft tools support SOCs?
- How can AI support a SOC?
- Module assessment
- Summary
Analyze cybersecurity incidents with Security Copilot
- Introduction
- How should a SOC address security incidents?
- How can SOCs use AI to better detect and respond to threats?
- Module assessment
- Summary
Build a cybersecurity career with SOC best practices
- Introduction
- What challenges do SOCs have?
- What are common best practices for SOCs?
- SOC decision lab: Implement best practices
- What ethical issues should I consider?
- What careers exist in cybersecurity and what skills do I need?
- Module assessment
- Summary