Managed Detection and Response Service Framework
November 4, 2025
8 min read
1. Core Services
The foundational aspects of MDR include monitoring for threats, responding to incidents, hunting for hidden vulnerabilities, and conducting forensic analysis to understand the incident/attack.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Threat Detection | Monitors networks, systems, and endpoints to identify potential threats. |
| Incident Response | Provides rapid response to identified threats to contain and mitigate damage. |
| Threat Hunting | Proactively search for hidden or advanced threats in IT environments. |
| Forensic Analysis | Analyses security incidents to understand scope, origin, and impact. |
2. Security Monitoring Tools
Implement advanced technologies like Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), and Network Detection and Response (NDR) for real-time detection and analysis of threats across endpoints, networks, and systems, with support from global threat intelligence.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) | Collect, log and analyze security data in real time to detect anomalies. |
| EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) | Monitor endpoint activities to detect and contain suspicious behavior. |
| NDR (Network Detection and Response) | Track network traffic to identify and respond to malicious activities. |
| Threat Intelligence Platforms | Integrate global threat data to improve detection and prevention. |
3. Incident Management
Provides a structured approach to handling threats, including prioritizing incidents, using predefined playbooks for quick responses, and learning from incidents through detailed post-event reviews.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Prioritization | Assign severity levels to detected threats for efficient resource allocation. |
| Playbooks | Define standardized response protocols for common incident types. |
| Incident Reporting | Documents incident details, impact, and resolution steps for future reference. |
| Post-Incident Review | Conduct detailed analysis after incidents to improve defenses. |
4. Integration and Automation
Ensures seamless operation by connecting MDR tools with existing IT systems and using automation (via SOAR) to streamline repetitive tasks like alert triaging and response actions.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) | Automate repetitive tasks like alert triaging and response. |
| Third-Party Integrations | Ensure MDR tools integrate seamlessly with existing IT systems and platforms. |
| API-Driven Workflows | Enable automated communication between security tools for efficient responses. |
| Cloud Monitoring | Extend security monitoring and detection to cloud infrastructure. |
5. Threat Intelligence and Research
Proactively stay ahead of attackers by leveraging threat feeds, profiling adversary behaviors, assessing vulnerabilities, and keeping systems updated with the latest risk trends.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Threat Feeds | Utilize global and industry-specific intelligence feeds for advanced threat detection. |
| Adversary Profiling | Study attacker tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to anticipate threats. |
| Vulnerability Assessments | Identify weaknesses in systems and recommend mitigation strategies. |
| Emerging Threat Updates | Provide clients with updates on the latest cyber risks and trends. |
6. Reporting and Compliance
Ensure transparency and regulatory adherence by providing real-time dashboards, compliance-ready reports, and support for audits, enabling clients to meet standards like General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS).
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Real-Time Dashboards | Display live metrics on threat status, resolution timelines, and system health. |
| Compliance Reporting | Prepare detailed reports for regulatory compliance (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS) |
| Monthly/Quarterly Reports | Summarize detected threats, responses, and security improvements over time. |
| Audit Support | Assist in preparing and providing evidence during compliance audits. |
7. Client Engagement and SLA Management
Strengthens relationships through regular updates, customized alerts, and 24/7 availability while monitoring adherence to Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for response and resolution times.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| SLA Monitoring | Tracks adherence to response and resolution time commitments in contracts. |
| Regular Status Meetings | Engages with clients to discuss progress, trends, and recommended actions. |
| Custom Alerts | Offers client-specific notifications based on predefined risk thresholds. |
| Support Accessibility | Ensures 24/7 availability of the MDR team for critical incidents. |
8. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
Continuously enhances MDR services by incorporating client feedback, learning from past incidents, providing ongoing training, and upgrading technologies to counter evolving cyber threats.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Client Feedback | Collect input on service quality and adjust offerings to meet client needs. |
| Lessons Learned Analysis | Review past incidents to improve response playbooks and detection techniques. |
| Continuous Training | Update staff and systems with knowledge of new threats and security techniques. |
| Technology Upgrades | Regularly assess and upgrade tools to keep pace with evolving cyber risks. |
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