Marist College of Poughkeepsie, New York, has opened a security operations center (SOC) largely powered by IBM's software. That software, no doubt, also runs in IBM's own managed security services business unit, which ranks among the Top 100 MSSP for 2018 and 2017.
The Marist SOC, located about 80 miles from New York City, leverages a variety of IBM cybersecurity technologies, including the QRadar Security Intelligence Platform and IBM Security AppScan web security testing and monitoring tools, according to a prepared statement. QRadar applies advanced analytics to detect and prioritize threats across Marist's IT environment, and AppScan identifies and remediates application security vulnerabilities.
In addition, the Marist SOC includes security gateways from BlackRidge Technology, a cloud and network security solutions provider. The BlackRidge security gateways prevent and log unauthorized access of network resources and allow the SOC to control and adjust trust levels for authorized users.
Marist SOC Supports Cybersecurity Education Program
The Marist SOC provides a hub for hands-on activities for Marist bachelor in science (B.S.) in cybersecurity program students, the college indicated. It also enables these students to practice their cybersecurity skills in a safe, isolated cloud environment that replicates real world scenarios and learn how to quickly identify and address cyberattacks.
The Marist B.S. in cybersecurity program provides expert advising and software obtained through the IBM Academic Initiative, according to the college. It received approval from the New York State Education Department in June, and the program's first students are now participating in classes.
Introducing OmniSOC for Higher Education
Colleges and universities worldwide are sorting through SOC strategies to safeguard their digital and physical assets, while also introducing security-centric education to students.
Among the more recent moves: OmniSOC, a shared SOC for higher education, was launched earlier this year by the following universities:
The aforementioned universities share their cybersecurity data with OmniSOC. Next, OmniSOC analyzes this information for potential threats and notifies campuses when incidents require further action.
Furthermore, OmniSOC operates as part of Indiana University in conjunction with the school's Global Network Operations Center (GlobalNOC). It also leverages threat intelligence insights from the school's Research and Education Networking Information Sharing and Analysis Center (REN-ISAC).
DoE Prioritizes College, University Data Security
The U.S. Department of Education (DoE) recently threatened to stop Title IV funding for post-secondary institutions that lack appropriate data security safeguards. It requires colleges, universities and other educational institutions to adopt "reasonable safeguards" to protect data against cyberattacks.
Meanwhile, MSSPs could capitalize on the higher education cybersecurity market. MSSPs can offer managed security services and support to protect colleges and universities against cyberattacks both now and in the future.
Disclosure: MSSP Alert founding editor Joe Panettieri is a Marist College Alum.
