In this analysis of XDR vs SIEM vs SOAR, we’ll dive deep into the differences of these three tools and try to understand how XDR can benefit organizations by delivering the benefits of both the security solutions in a single platform. Improving threat detection, optimizing response efficiency and simplifying operations.
Whether XDR vs SIEM comparison for data correlation, or XDR vs SOAR comparison for automation, this blog post explains how XDR will aptly substitute for these tools as well with an integrated, less complex and best-of-breed architecture to detect threats in companies of today.
What is XDR?
Extended Detection and Response (XDR) is an integrated cybersecurity solution that unifies threat detection and response across an organization. Unlike traditional security tools that work in many different security layers, XDR correlates different security products — like endpoints, networks, and servers — to provide organizations with an overall picture of their security posture.
Furthermore, XDR architecture is able to provide improved threat intelligence and detection, through data correlation from all sources, allowing for attributed analysis and automated response.
Key Features of XDR:
- Centralized Data Correlation: XDR collects data from an organization’s environment and correlates data that enables faster detection and response to threats.
- Automation: The automation of responses to security threats in XDR architecture frees up many hours spent investigating security events and remediating threats involved.
- Minimized Alert fatigue: XDR security minimizes the noise and identifies events that require further investigation based on advanced analytical evaluation which allows security teams to focus on high- priority threats.
What is SIEM?
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is a central solution that collects, stores, and analyzes log data from across an organization’s IT environment. SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management. The term is a combination of two main functions of the tool:
- Security Information Management (SIM): which emphasizes log retention and historical analysis.
- Security Event Management (SEM): which is focused on real-time monitoring and event correlation.
Key Features of SIEM:
- Log Collection and Management: SIEM collects logs from multiple systems such as firewalls, servers, applications, databases, etc. into a single platform for easier monitoring.
- Event Correlation: SIEM correlates related events to discover patterns that may indicate a potential security incident.
- Operational Alerts: It also provides alerts in real-time because upon the detection of such suspicious or unusual activities, SIEM enables faster response towards the same.
- Threat Detection: SIEM identifies known threats and abnormal activity across systems through its ruleset and threat intelligence.
What is SOAR?
SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) is a cybersecurity technology that integrates security tools and automates security operations. This enables security teams to enhance alert management, accelerate incident response, and reduce operational friction. By automating manual processes, SOAR allows organizations to respond to threats proactively while fostering a focus on security priorities.
SOAR platforms often have three core functions: security orchestration, automation, and case management. This allows for smooth collaboration across different security tools, enhanced incident response capabilities, and consolidated visibility into all security activities.
Key Features of SOAR
- Security Orchestration: SOAR will consolidate and integrate a number of different security tools and technologies, eliminating a large number of manual processes between the platforms.
- Automated Incident Response: SOAR includes alert prioritization or threat containment, allowing organizations to reduce their response times while alleviating fatigue on their security team.
- Case Management: SOAR provides a centralized location for tracking and reporting incidents, helping teams log, investigate, and resolve security cases efficiently.
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XDR vs. SIEM vs. SOAR
Understanding the differences between XDR vs SIEM, and XDR vs SOAR is crucial for selecting the right cybersecurity solution. Here is a detailed comparative analysis of the tools.
| Feature | XDR (Extended Detection and Response) | SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) | SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Unified detection, response, and remediation across multiple security layers. | Centralized log collection, analysis, and event correlation for threat detection. | Automation and orchestration of security processes and incident responses. |
| Scope | Cross-layer integration: endpoint, network, and cloud security. | Broad log monitoring from various IT systems (servers, firewalls, apps). | Workflow optimization and coordination between existing security tools. |
| Detection | Real-time detection using machine learning and behavioral analysis. | Rule-based and threat intelligence-driven detection with alerts. | Not primarily a detection tool; depends on input from SIEM and other systems. |
| Automation | Offers limited, predefined automation for specific threat responses. | Minimal automation; focuses on alerting and compliance reporting. | Extensive automation of repetitive tasks and playbook execution. |
| Data Correlation | Integrates and correlates data across multiple layers for deeper insights. | Focuses on log aggregation and correlation to identify patterns. | Relies on orchestrating data and tools but does not independently correlate. |
| Complexity | Designed to be simpler and reduce tool sprawl with a unified platform. | Complex configuration and fine-tuning required for log monitoring. | Highly dependent on playbook customization and tool integration. |
| Threat Mitigation | Proactively blocks threats with automated response capabilities. | Identifies threats but relies on manual or separate tools for response. | Automate response actions based on predefined workflows. |
| Primary Users | Security teams are looking for unified visibility and proactive defense. | SOC analysts and teams focused on compliance and alert management. | SOC teams aim to streamline workflows and reduce operational workload. |
| Strength | Holistic view and unified defense against advanced threats. | Broad data collection and log management with customizable reporting. | Improved efficiency and faster responses through automation. |
| Limitation | May rely on specific vendor ecosystems; still emerging as a market standard. | Generates alert fatigue due to high false positives; manual responses required. | Complex implementation; depends heavily on existing tools and integrations. |
Choosing the Right Solution
While choosing the right cybersecurity solution will depend on your organization’s needs, understanding how XDR can replace SIEM and SOAR can make the decision easier.
How XDR Replaces SIEM
Traditional SIEM systems store logs and focus on correlation coming from different tools devoid of the complexity of mass storage but requiring time and manual effort to configure. Unlike SIEM, eXtended Detection and Response (XDR) brings together endpoint, network, and cloud data into one place. The vision also unifies threat detection and removes the data silos common with SIEM.
How XDR Replaces SOAR
SOAR allows automation of workflows and incident responses; however, it heavily depends on outside tools such as SIEM for data inputs, and on heavily customized playbooks. With embedded threat detection and response capabilities, XDR is automated and requires minimal customization. XDR security combines intelligence with automated response actions to streamline security operations without the burden of maintaining complex playbooks.
Why Fidelis XDR Solution is the Future
Fidelis Elevate® provides the best of both worlds by uniting SIEM and SOAR into one cohesive solution that allows for:
- Unified visibility across security layers (endpoint, network, and cloud).
- Proactive threat detection and response
- Reduced complexity and tool sprawl
Fidelis XDR security is best for businesses looking to strengthen their security infrastructure providing a more integrated, effective and affordable means of detecting and reacting to security threats.
- Deep Visibility
- Expert Forensics
- Resilient Defense
Frequently Ask Questions
Can XDR completely replace SIEM and SOAR in all organizations?
In many instances, XDR can serve as a complete alternative to SIEM and SOAR, especially for organizations looking for a unified approach to threat detection and response. However, the decision depends on the organization’s specific requirements and existing infrastructure. To exactly understand your organization’s security requirements, you should consult Fidelis Security Experts.
How does XDR handle alert fatigue better than SIEM?
XDR is built to reduce alert fatigue with advanced threat intelligence, machine learning and behavioral analytics. In contrast to SIEM that tends to create a lot of alerts based on rule-based configuration, XDR correlates data from many layers like endpoint, network and cloud to understand whether there is a real threat or not. XDR helps minimize false positive alerts by contextualizing event detection within the broader security posture of the organization.
How does XDR’s automation compare to SOAR’s playbooks?
XDR makes automation simple, as the tool comes with built-in workflows and response actions, so that users do not spend time creating custom playbooks, which is an important feature of SOAR solutions. The XDR platform has built-in automation for the most common security use cases. This makes XDR deployment easier.
Does implementing XDR require completely replacing existing tools?
No, implementing XDR does not require replacing existing tools. Open XDR solutions such as Fidelis Elevate® integrate well with other components of the existing security infrastructure, like endpoint protection, firewalls, and cloud security tools. This inter-operability means organizations can continue to leverage their existing investments while realizing the advantages of unified detection and response.
How is soar different from SIEM?
SOAR specializes in automating security workflows and executing incident responses through custom playbooks, while SIEM collects and correlates log data from different systems for centralized monitoring and threat detection. SIEM does offer a high-level overview, SOAR brings those responses to an efficient level. They work well together but serve very different purposes in cybersecurity operations.
