Security Operations Center

The CSUSB Security Operations Center is tasked with monitoring events and alerts from information systems to detect and respond to security incidents as they occur. The SOC is a collaboration between the Center for Cyber and AI and Information Technology Services. It serves as a hands-on learning opportunity for cybersecurity students under the framework prescribed by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards.

Responsibilities

• Monitoring and analysis of patterns, anomalies and alerts arriving from:
  • Network traffic flows
  • Firewalls
  • Intrusion Detection and Preventions Systems
  • Anti-malware Software, including Extended Detection and Response (XDR) agents
  • Cloud Service Providers
  • Security information sharing memberships
  • Email filtering
  • Data Loss Prevention systems
• Notification and escalation of security incidents to appropriate personnel, including:
  • Building investigations from logs and events
  • Identifying appropriate escalation procedures
  • Monitoring for privilege escalations arising from an initial incident

Support and Funding

Significant funding was provided by:

• NCAE grant for the Inland Empire Cyber Security Initiative
• The Tech and Workforce Hub Project earmark awarded during the 118th Congress

Analysts are also employed as Information Technology Services student assistants using state funds and tuition.

Press releases

• Congressman Aguilar delivers ceremonial check for cybersecurity’s Tech and Workforce Hub Project

Testimonials

Samuel Flores

"During my time at California State University, San Bernardino, I had the privilege of volunteering at the Security Operations Center (SOC) where I gained hands-on practical cybersecurity experience that classrooms often lack. The SOC prepared me for a career by providing me with the resources to thrive and a platform to grow. Experimenting with enterprise level systems and learning from leads like Alejandra Aguilera & James Macdonell when I was out of my depth was valuable real-world experience. Volunteering at the SOC gave me the confidence to explore and experiment in a business setting. I believe that sort of opportunity is rare."