Top 10 SOC Analysts Training Platforms

Security Operations Center (SOC) analysts play an important role in defending against cyber threats. To meet the demands of this critical profession, aspiring and seasoned SOC analysts alike seek top-tier training platforms that offer comprehensive instruction, hands-on experience, and industry-recognized certifications.

From mastering threat intelligence to honing incident response skills, these platforms provide the essential tools and knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of cybersecurity. In this blog, we explore the top 10 SOC Analysts Training Platforms.

SANS Institute

The SANS Institute, renowned for its cybersecurity education, is a premier destination for SOC analysts training. Established in 1989, SANS offers comprehensive courses and certifications tailored to SOC operations. With a focus on practical skills and theoretical knowledge, SANS equips analysts with the tools needed to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity threats.

SANS logo

Some SANS key Courses for SOC Analysts

• SEC555: SIEM with Tactical Analytics – Tailored for SOC analysts who need to work with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, this course teaches how to turn data into actionable intelligence.
• SEC450: Blue Team Fundamentals – Provides comprehensive training for SOC analysts, focusing on empowering professionals in cyber defense operations to enhance their skills and workflows. It offers hands-on experience, advanced techniques, and critical insights to detect and mitigate advanced cyber threats effectively. Designed for various team types, SEC450 equips participants with the essential tools and techniques required to defend modern organizations against cyberattacks. GIAC GSOC certification, coupled with this course, offers a top-notch combination for individuals seeking comprehensive training and certification in security operations.
• SEC595: Applied Data Science and AI/Machine Learning for Cybersecurity Professionals – provides practical training for cybersecurity professionals to understand and apply these advanced tools effectively. It demystifies machine learning and data science, focusing on real-world applications for information security problems. With hands-on labs and a balanced approach to theory and practical skills, participants gain the ability to build custom Artificial Intelligence and machine learning solutions for cybersecurity needs. The course covers essential topics such as data acquisition, visualization, neural networks, anomaly detection, and statistical analysis, preparing participants to tackle real-world cyber threats with confidence.

TryHackMe

TryHackMe emerges as a leading platform for cybersecurity education, offering a specialized training path designed for aspiring SOC analysts.

TryHackMe Learning Paths tab showing available courses

Its comprehensive SOC Analysts training path provides interactive modules covering essential topics like SOC operations, SIEM, incident response, threat intelligence, and network defense. With a focus on hands-on learning through Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges and virtual labs, TryHackMe ensures practical skill development and comprehension.

Unique selling points include accessibility, community support, and a cost-effective subscription model. Completing the SOC Analysts training path equips learners with essential skills to monitor networks, manage incidents, apply threat intelligence, and navigate compliance requirements within SOC operations, establishing TryHackMe as a premier SOC analysts training platform.

Hack The Box

Hack The Box provides a wide array of resources and training opportunities, featuring a comprehensive SOC Analyst Job Role Path.

SOC Analyst Job Role Path in Hack The Box

Key features include practical skill development through hands-on exercises, integration with the MITRE ATT&CK Framework, gamified learning, and a comprehensive curriculum covering SOC fundamentals, advanced malware analysis, digital forensics, and network traffic analysis. Completion of the SOC Analyst Job Role Path equips learners with practical skills to monitor enterprise-level infrastructure and detect intrusions at an intermediate level, supported by certification upon completion.

The platform emphasizes technical knowledge of internet security, networking protocols, IDS/IPS, firewalls, SIEM solutions, and fosters a community for collaboration and networking. Overall, Hack The Box is a valuable resource for individuals seeking to enter or advance in the cybersecurity field, particularly in the role of a SOC analysts, with its practical, hands-on approach and integration with industry standards.

LetsDefend

LetsDefend presents a top-tier Blue Team Training Platform. Its SOC Analysts Learning page encompasses a structured curriculum covering essential topics such as SOC fundamentals, incident response, phishing email analysis, and malware analysis. Through hands-on simulations and exercises, learners gain practical experience in real SOC scenarios.

LetsDefend Learn page

LetsDefend integrates the MITRE ATT&CK Framework, providing learners with industry-standard practices. Completion of the learning path equips individuals with the skills needed to monitor networks, analyze incidents, and defend against cyber threats, fostering career development in cybersecurity. With its affordable pricing and focus on practical skill-building, LetsDefend emerges as a top choice for SOC analysts training platforms.

With SOCRadar Malware Analysis, SOC analysts gain an unparalleled advantage in dissecting suspicious code fragments, uncovering hidden threats, and defending against cyber attacks.

SOCRadar Malware Analysis

Security Blue Team

Security Blue Team’s training, notably the BTL1 certification, has garnered recognition as a comprehensive baseline for SOC analysts, cementing its status in the industry as of June 19, 2023.

Security Blue Team main page

Security Blue Team offers a diverse range of certifications tailored to various levels of expertise in security operations. from security fundamentals, phishing analysis, incident response, and exam preparation to certification that delves into topics like malware analysis, threat hunting, advanced SIEM, and vulnerability management.

Security Blue Team also provides the Security Operations Manager certification for those aiming for leadership roles, focusing on modern security operations, SOC building, capability development, metrics maturity, and measuring success.

The platform is also preparing to launch an upcoming certification, promising to deliver specialized training for cybersecurity professionals, with updates available on its website and social media channels.

Additionally, the platform features a team leader portal, facilitating efficient management of progress through certifications and labs, further enhancing the learning experience for participants.

Blue Team Labs Online

Security Blue Team also offer a labs platform called Blue Team Labs Online, offering over 110 scenario-based labs. These labs span digital forensics, incident response, security operations, reverse engineering, and other vital aspects, fostering a deep comprehension of contemporary SOC operations.

Blue Team Labs Online main page

SOCRadar Vulnerability Intelligence module remains your vigilant sentinel, continuously monitoring your organization’s digital ecosystem with unwavering precision. Leveraging advanced detection algorithms, SOCRadar promptly identifies emerging vulnerabilities and dispatches timely alerts to your SOC team.

SOCRadar Vulnerability Intelligence module

EC-Council

EC-Council, known for its cybersecurity certification programs, offers the Certified SOC Analysts (CSA) certification tailored for Security Operations Centers (SOCs). The CSA program equips candidates with comprehensive knowledge of SOC processes, threat identification, and incident response, covering a range of essential skills for Tier I and Tier II analysts.

EC-Council courses

EC-Council’s online learning platform offers flexible training solutions for busy cybersecurity professionals. Highlighting the world-class instructors and the accessibility of live, in-person, and online courses can emphasize the quality and convenience of EC-Council’s training programs.

Participants gain insights into cybersecurity threats, attacker behaviors, and threat intelligence integration into Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solutions. The program emphasizes real-world application, incident response collaboration, and proficiency in monitoring technologies.

RangeForce

RangeForce stands out with its interactive environment, featuring gamified content aligned with industry frameworks like NIST/NICE, MITRE ATT&CK, and D3FEND. Users can access hands-on labs and real-world attack scenarios online anytime, fostering simultaneous learning and application of new techniques.

RangeForce main page

With comprehensive learning paths covering various cybersecurity roles and over 400 modules available, RangeForce caters to diverse training needs. The platform’s global recognition includes awards such as the Cybersecurity Training Award by Cyber Defense Magazine, showcasing its innovative approach.

As a CREST-approved training provider, RangeForce helps professionals prepare for CREST exams, emphasizing high-quality training standards. RangeForce’s adaptive learning and training orchestration integrate partner solutions, offering scalable and customizable training experiences. The (AR)² Readiness Program™ ensures continuous skill development, preparing SOC teams for the latest threats.

CyberDefenders

CyberDefenders, a Blue Team Labs training platform, is making waves in the cybersecurity space. It has become the go-to platform for aspiring SOC analysts and organizations seeking to enhance their cybersecurity defense skills. CyberDefenders is based in Delaware, U.S., providing a physical point of contact for the organization.

The CCD certification program offered by CyberDefenders is a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. It covers critical domains such as threat hunting, perimeter defense, disk forensics, memory forensics, and network forensics.

CyberDefenders CCD certification program

Expert-crafted blue team training labs simulate real-world investigations, honing the analytical and problem-solving skills of the learners. The curriculum is meticulously designed with nine modules, consisting of written lessons, video lessons, quizzes, and practical labs for an in-depth understanding.

The platform goes above and beyond to acknowledge the success of CCD exam candidates. CyberDefenders adds excitement to the learning process by turning the journey to blue team mastery into a competitive event. Learners move up the leaderboard and earn digital badges.

CompTIA

CompTIA stands as a global leader in SOC analysts, offering industry-leading certifications, and courses. With a focus on flexible training solutions, CompTIA provides self-study, virtual classes, interactive labs, practice exams, and more.

CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification program is globally recognized for validating the essential skills required in cybersecurity professionals. It equips individuals with comprehensive knowledge in data analysis, threat detection, and risk assessment, covering crucial areas like vulnerability management.

CompTIA CySA+ certification program

Recognized by industry leaders and compliant with regulatory standards, including the US Department of Defense directives, CySA+ opens doors for career advancement and is sought after by reputable employers like Target and Northrup Grumman. With diverse training options and a Continuing Education (CE) program, CySA+ remains a valuable choice for cybersecurity professionals seeking to enhance their skills and career prospects in SOC environments.

Bonus: SOCRadar Dark Web Training

As a bonus, let’s not forget about SOCRadar Academy’s free Dark Web Training. This course is designed to guide you safely and securely into and through the dark web. It equips learners with research tactics and techniques to confidently investigate hidden content and stay up-to-date with security breaches and cyber risks.

SOCRadar Dark Web Training

What sets SOCRadar Academy apart is the unique terminology of the dark web that participants will master, unlike other trainings. The course also includes a “Myths & Facts” section, which is not available in other trainings. This training is ideal for anyone interested in cybersecurity, ethical hacking, journalism, or simply looking to stay safe online. The course is a great way to legally use the dark web or learn more to help keep people safe online.

You can also try the power of the SOCRadar XTI platform with our Free Edition (Freemium):