Streamlining Security with SOAR: Automation for Faster, Smarter Incident Response
Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) platforms are designed to accelerate and scale security operations by automating repetitive tasks, orchestrating tools, and streamlining incident handling. In a world of alert overload and talent shortages, SOAR empowers lean teams to do more, faster.
🤖 What is SOAR?
SOAR platforms combine three core capabilities:
- Orchestration: Connects disparate tools (SIEM, EDR, ticketing, threat intel) into unified workflows.
- Automation: Executes tasks—such as enrichment, containment, or alert suppression—without manual input.
- Response: Enables structured incident triage, escalation, and resolution through playbooks and case management.
💡 Why SOAR Matters
- Reduces response time (MTTR) by automating triage and resolution steps.
- Decreases alert fatigue by auto-prioritising and dismissing false positives.
- Standardises incident handling, ensuring consistency across shifts and teams.
- Improves analyst efficiency, letting humans focus on decisions, not busywork.
⚙️ My Approach to SOAR Implementation
1. Use Case Identification
- Prioritise high-volume, high-impact workflows:
- Phishing investigation
- Malware containment
- Suspicious login analysis
- Threat intel enrichment
2. Integration Mapping
- Connect existing tooling: SIEM, EDR/XDR, ticketing (e.g. Jira, ServiceNow), firewalls, sandboxing tools, etc.
- Ensure bidirectional APIs are working and secure.
3. Playbook Design
- Map out step-by-step workflows:
- Trigger → Enrich → Analyse → Respond → Close
- Include both automated actions and human approval gates.
4. Automation Development
- Use built-in scripting or low-code logic to automate:
- WHOIS lookups, hash reputation checks
- User/email/IP enrichment
- Network isolation via EDR or firewall APIs
- Notification via Slack, Teams, or email
5. Pilot and Iterate
- Test automation in parallel with manual processes.
- Refine playbooks to reduce noise, improve accuracy, and ensure auditability.
6. Metrics and Maturity
- Track outcomes:
- Time saved per incident
- False positive reduction
- Analyst satisfaction
- Progress from basic task automation to fully orchestrated incident lifecycle handling.
🔝 Top SOAR Platforms in 2025
| Vendor | Strengths | Best Fit |
|---|---|---|
| Splunk SOAR (ex-Phantom) | Powerful and highly customisable | Teams already using Splunk SIEM |
| Cortex XSOAR (Palo Alto) | Pre-built integrations, strong case mgmt UI | Enterprises needing scalable SOAR |
| Microsoft Sentinel Playbooks | Low-code logic apps for incident response | Microsoft-centric organisations |
| Swimlane | Flexible, visual editor and scalable architecture | Customisable environments |
| DFLabs IncMan SOAR | Focused on threat triage and incident response | SOC teams with hybrid stacks |
| Tines | No-code automation built for security teams | Agile teams with limited dev time |
| Siemplify (now part of Google Chronicle) | Context-rich investigation and response | Cloud-native or Chronicle users |
SOAR enables a transformation in how security teams operate—replacing reactive firefighting with proactive, automated defence. It’s not just about speed—it’s about scaling expertise and embedding intelligence into every action.