As a newcomer to the realm of network threat detection, I sought to gain practical experience with a Network Detection and Response (NDR) system. My objective was to understand how NDR tools assist in threat hunting and incident response, fitting seamlessly into the daily operations of a Security Operations Center (SOC). I experimented with Corelight’s Investigator software, part of their Open NDR Platform, which is designed for ease of use, even for those new to the field. With access to a production version loaded with pre-recorded network traffic, I embarked on this learning journey.
The Role of NDR in SOC Workflows
NDR systems are vital tools for mid- to high-level security operations, playing a significant role in threat detection and response workflows within a SOC. These systems offer extensive visibility across networks, crucial for identifying complex attacks and potential vulnerabilities. By integrating with Security Information and Event Managers (SIEMs), endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions, and firewalls, NDR systems enable analysts to correlate network data effectively, enhancing their ability to respond swiftly and efficiently to threats.
The seamless integration of NDR with other SOC tools ensures a holistic approach to threat management. This interconnectedness allows for richer insights and more precise actions, essential when dealing with advanced threats that might evade other detection systems. Understanding how NDR systems function within these workflows was enlightening, particularly their role in enhancing response times and improving threat visibility.
Initial Insights into NDR System Dashboard
Upon launching the Investigator software, I was greeted by a dashboard displaying ranked lists of high-risk detections, organized by IP addresses and occurrence frequency. Investigations typically commence when network anomalies trigger alerts, prompting analysts to explore the root causes. The dashboard provided detailed insights into flagged issues, such as exploit tools and reverse command shells executing malware, which were instrumental in understanding network threats.
Investigator’s dashboard also linked events to the MITRE ATT&CK® framework, offering a broader context for each alert. This feature proved invaluable for learning about unfamiliar exploits, allowing me to delve deeper into specific network packets and gain comprehensive insights. The software’s GenAI features further enhanced the experience, offering step-by-step guidance through pre-set questions, aiding in the identification and mitigation of threats.
AI’s Role in Enhancing Human Analysis
AI integration in security tools is commonplace today, and in my experience, the AI features in Corelight’s Investigator were genuinely beneficial. The AI provided clear, actionable insights, enhancing my ability to analyze threats efficiently. The AI-driven workflow steps, such as correlating connected IP addresses or tracking DNS origins, were more than mere features; they were integral to the threat hunting process.
The AI suggestions were seamlessly integrated into the workflow, serving as helpful reminders and educational tools for analysts. They facilitated a deeper understanding of alerts, their origins, and potential impact. Importantly, Corelight ensures that Investigator only shares data with AI models when investigating threats, maintaining data privacy and integrity.
Corelight’s Investigator also offers extensive integration options with other security tools, enriching network connection data with valuable insights. This enrichment simplifies the process of distinguishing between normal and suspicious network activities. Integrations with tools like SIEMs and EDR solutions further enhance threat detection capabilities, allowing analysts to correlate data across systems effectively.
In conclusion, while my journey with Investigator hasn’t turned me into a network security analyst, it has deepened my understanding of SOC workflows and threat detection technologies. The experience highlighted the importance of NDR platforms in modern cybersecurity, offering valuable lessons in network analysis and threat mitigation. For those interested in exploring Corelight’s open NDR platform further, visit corelight.com for more information.
