The new logic behind SOC operations: what will define 2026

Each year, security leaders assess which trends will truly shape cybersecurity. Insights from the Palo Alto Networks EMEA Tech Summit suggest that 2026 will not be about new tools, but about a fundamental shift in how SOCs operate.

Rather than adding more technology, the focus is on redefining the SOC’s role within the broader defense model shaped by AI and integrated security architectures.

1. The SOC role is shifting: from execution to control

The traditional SOC focused on handling alerts and incidents. By 2026, its role evolves into a control function overseeing the entire defense system.

SOCs will decide when automation should act, when human expertise is required, and how business risk influences security responses — moving beyond purely reactive operations.

2. Decision-making becomes the critical challenge

The main challenge facing SOCs is no longer limited visibility, but decision overload.

Future SOCs will aim to reduce noise and focus on fewer, higher-quality decisions, with AI preparing analysis and risk context in advance. Analysts remain central, using this insight to prioritize actions based on urgency and business impact.

3. Automation as a regulated capability

Automation in the new SOC model is deliberate and controlled, not unlimited.

Automated actions operate within defined boundaries, while complex or high-risk cases remain under human supervision. This marks a shift from rigid rule-based automation to adaptive, learning-driven decision logic.

4. Rethinking how SOC performance is measured

As operations evolve, traditional metrics such as alert volume lose relevance.

Greater emphasis is placed on how quickly meaningful decisions are identified, how many incidents are prevented, and how effectively analyst workload is reduced — aligning SOC performance with business risk management.

5. What this means for EURO ONE customers

For EURO ONE customers, this transformation is an evolution rather than a disruption.

Existing SOC capabilities remain relevant, automation can be introduced gradually, and AI strengthens expert decision-making. While SOCs will not be fully autonomous by 2026, the way they operate will change fundamentally.

Read the full article on our International subsidiary’s website by clicking on the logo:

Do you have a question? Would you like to know more about this new SOC solution? Get in touch with our colleagues!