Inside the World of Managed Security Services: An Interview with James Hampson

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Global, Jun 12, 2025

Exploring the SOC, Threat Hunting and Cybersecurity Intelligence

In today’s fast-evolving cyber landscape, protecting sensitive data is no longer just a technological challenge, it’s a human endeavor. To uncover the inner workings of cybersecurity and the services offered by Logicalis, we spoke with James Hampson, Managed Security Services Director. His insights into the Security Operations Center (SOC) reveal the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of safeguarding customer environments.

What is a SOC?

At its core, a Security Operations Center (SOC) is a team of dedicated cybersecurity experts. As James explains, “It’s not just about machines or technology; there’s a very human element to our services.” The SOC operates 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring sensitive customer data is protected.

But the role of a SOC goes far beyond monitoring and alerts. It’s about proactive engagement—managing security platforms, optimising them for current and future requirements, and actively hunting for anomalies. As James puts it, “The cyber landscape is moving so quickly, if you stand still, you’re effectively going backwards.” SOC professionals don’t just react; they anticipate, adapt, and act in advance.

Threat Hunting and Managed Security Services

Threat hunting is a vital part of the SOC’s portfolio. Logicalis offers an array of services, from network security to Identity and Access managed services. Their approach evolves beyond traditional managed security service provider models by focusing on Managed Detection and Response (MDR). James shares, “It’s morphing into threat detection, investigation, and response service…we’re nuancing that service as we’ve gone on.”

This nuanced approach ensures Logicalis can “lock the doors” while keeping platforms updated and agile enough to meet emerging threats. Proactively seeking vulnerabilities and addressing them before exploitation occurs is central to their operations.

Mitigating Security Threats: Real-World Examples

The SOC’s ability to mitigate threats has proven invaluable to customers. James highlights a common scenario: “We’ve identified compromised accounts where threat actors bypass multi-factor authentication.” Through swift containment, including isolating affected accounts and devices, Logicalis prevents potential damage.

One particularly challenging case involved a ransomware attack where backups were encrypted, and production data was deleted. Though not initially a Logicalis customer, the organisation sought their help. “Not only were we able to assist from a security perspective, but we helped them recover from an infrastructure perspective as well,” James recounts. This comprehensive recovery effort was a turning point for the client, who later partnered with Logicalis for ongoing security services.

Zero-Day Vulnerabilities: A Proud Achievement

When asked about the threats he’s most proud of mitigating, James cites zero-day vulnerabilities. These are previously unknown security flaws that can be exploited before vendors release patches. Thanks to early access to threat intelligence, Logicalis identifies exposure to vulnerabilities, ensures no signs of exploitation, and creates rules to alert on suspicious activity.

“Hopefully they haven’t got to being exploited, but in some cases, they do,” James explains. By working with customers to address these critical threats, the SOC proves its value as a proactive and capable defender in the cybersecurity arena.

Balancing People, Process, and Technology

At the heart of Logicalis’ SOC lies a balance of people, processes, and technology. While technology provides the tools, it’s the team’s expertise and dedication that make the system effective. “We empower the team to operate within very clear guidelines,” James emphasises. This balance is key to ensuring agility, precision, and continuous improvement in cybersecurity services.

Conclusion

The SOC at Logicalis is more than a security hub—it’s a dynamic force combining human expertise, cutting-edge technology, and robust processes to navigate the complexities of cybersecurity. From threat hunting to zero-day mitigation, the SOC demonstrates its commitment to protecting customer environments and adapting to the ever-changing cyber landscape.

James Hampson’s insights offer a glimpse into the critical work of securing the digital world, proving that the SOC is not just a team, it’s a lifeline for organisations facing modern cyber threats. As the cyber landscape continues to evolve, the proactive and collaborative approach of Logicalis ensures their clients remain secure and well-prepared for the future.

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