Continuous Monitoring

Simple Definition for Beginners:

Continuous monitoring is the ongoing process of observing, assessing, and analyzing systems, networks, and data to detect and respond to security threats and operational issues in real time.

Common Use Example:

A security operations center (SOC) uses continuous monitoring tools to monitor network traffic, log data, and system activity for signs of unauthorized access or suspicious behavior.

Technical Definition for Professionals:

Continuous monitoring is a cybersecurity practice that involves the real-time or near-real-time monitoring of IT systems, networks, applications, and data to identify security incidents, vulnerabilities, and operational anomalies. It employs automated monitoring tools, security information and event management (SIEM) systems, log analysis, threat intelligence feeds, and security analytics to detect and respond to security threats proactively. Continuous monitoring aims to provide organizations with visibility into their IT environments, enhance threat detection capabilities, reduce response times to security incidents, and improve overall cybersecurity posture.