SOC Analyst

50+ SOC Analyst Interview Questions and Answers

Updated 18 Jul 2025
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Asked in TCS

6d ago

Q. How would you educate users about cybersecurity attacks?

Ans.

Educating users about cybersecurity attacks is crucial for their protection.

  • Conduct regular cybersecurity awareness training sessions

  • Provide clear and concise guidelines on safe online practices

  • Share real-life examples of cyber attacks and their consequences

  • Encourage the use of strong and unique passwords

  • Promote the use of multi-factor authentication

  • Teach users how to identify phishing emails and suspicious links

  • Advise against downloading files from unknown sources

  • Highlight t...read more

Asked in TCS

4d ago

Q. What is the difference between TLS and SSL protocols?

Ans.

TLS is the successor of SSL protocol, providing more secure communication over the internet.

  • TLS is the newer version of SSL.

  • TLS uses stronger encryption algorithms.

  • TLS supports more secure cipher suites.

  • TLS provides better authentication and key exchange mechanisms.

  • TLS is backward compatible with SSL, but SSL is not forward compatible with TLS.

SOC Analyst Interview Questions and Answers for Freshers

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Asked in TCS

1d ago

Q. What are the different types of attacks?

Ans.

There are various types of attacks, including malware, phishing, DDoS, ransomware, and social engineering.

  • Malware attacks involve malicious software that can harm or exploit systems.

  • Phishing attacks aim to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information.

  • DDoS attacks overwhelm a network or website with excessive traffic, causing it to become unavailable.

  • Ransomware attacks encrypt files or systems and demand a ransom for their release.

  • Social engineering attacks manipulat...read more

4d ago

Q. What processes can run in the background when you open .EXE and .DOCX files?

Ans.

Multiple processes can run in the background when opening .EXE and .DOCX files.

  • When opening an .EXE file, the process associated with the executable runs in the background.

  • Opening a .DOCX file can trigger processes like the Microsoft Word application, antivirus scanning, indexing services, and more.

  • Some processes may be specific to the user's system configuration and installed software.

  • Processes running in the background can vary depending on the file's content and associated...read more

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Asked in TCS

1d ago

Q. 1.what is symmetric and asymmetric encryption.

Ans.

Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric encryption uses different keys.

  • Symmetric encryption is faster and more efficient than asymmetric encryption.

  • Examples of symmetric encryption algorithms include AES and DES.

  • Asymmetric encryption is more secure as it uses a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption.

  • Examples of asymmetric encryption algorithms include RSA and ECC.

1d ago

Q. Explain one of the most interesting security alerts you solved in your past experience in detail.

Ans.

Resolved a critical alert involving unusual outbound traffic indicating a potential data exfiltration attempt.

  • Identified an alert from the SIEM indicating a spike in outbound traffic from a specific server.

  • Investigated the source IP and found it was communicating with an external IP known for malicious activity.

  • Cross-referenced logs to confirm unauthorized access attempts to sensitive data.

  • Implemented immediate containment measures by isolating the affected server from the ne...read more

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4d ago

Q. Where are malware persistence mechanisms stored that persist after system reboot?

Ans.

Malware persistence is often stored in the Windows Registry.

  • Windows Registry is a hierarchical database that stores configuration settings and options for the operating system and installed applications.

  • Malware can create registry keys or modify existing ones to ensure persistence.

  • Examples of malware persistence techniques in the registry include Run keys, Services, and Shell extensions.

Asked in ISA Global

5d ago

Q. What is DHCP?, What is Router, Difference between hub and Switch?

Ans.

DHCP is a network protocol that assigns IP addresses to devices, a router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks, hub broadcasts data to all devices while switch forwards data to specific devices.

  • DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

  • DHCP assigns IP addresses to devices on a network

  • Router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks

  • Hub broadcasts data to all devices connected to it

  • Switch forwards...read more

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Asked in TCS

2d ago

Q. How do you determine if hash values are malicious?

Ans.

Hash values can be used to determine if a file or data is malicious or not.

  • Hash values are unique identifiers generated from the content of a file or data.

  • Malicious files or data often have known hash values that can be used for detection.

  • Comparing hash values of files or data with known malicious hash values can help identify threats.

  • Hash values can be used in antivirus software, threat intelligence databases, and security incident response.

  • Examples of hash algorithms includ...read more

5d ago

Q. How do you enable DKIM in your domain?

Ans.

To enable DKIM in your domain, you need to generate a DKIM key pair, add a DKIM record to your DNS, and configure your email server to sign outgoing messages with the DKIM key.

  • Generate a DKIM key pair using a tool or service

  • Add a DKIM record to your DNS by creating a TXT record with the DKIM public key

  • Configure your email server to sign outgoing messages with the DKIM private key

  • Test the DKIM setup using online tools or by sending test emails

Q. What is zero day attack? Difference between Hashing and Encryption? CIA Traid? Question based on your skills mention in Resume. Some case study

Ans.

Zero day attack is a cyber attack exploiting a vulnerability that is unknown to the software developer or vendor.

  • Zero day attack occurs when hackers exploit a software vulnerability before the developer releases a patch.

  • These attacks are dangerous because there is no defense or fix available at the time of the attack.

  • Examples include the Stuxnet worm and the WannaCry ransomware attack.

Asked in Genpact

5d ago

Q. How can you solve or scan for vulnerabilities?

Ans.

To solve or scan vulnerabilities, utilize vulnerability scanning tools, conduct penetration testing, implement security patches, and regularly update software.

  • Utilize vulnerability scanning tools such as Nessus, Qualys, or OpenVAS to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks

  • Conduct penetration testing to simulate real-world attacks and identify potential vulnerabilities

  • Implement security patches provided by software vendors to address known vulnerabilities

  • Regularly upd...read more

3d ago

Q. What are the basic components required to assemble a fully functional computer?

Ans.

A fully functional computer requires essential components like CPU, RAM, storage, and more to operate effectively.

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU) - The brain of the computer, e.g., Intel Core i7.

  • Random Access Memory (RAM) - Temporary storage for active processes, e.g., 16GB DDR4.

  • Storage - Long-term data storage, e.g., SSD or HDD with capacities like 512GB or 1TB.

  • Motherboard - The main circuit board connecting all components, e.g., ASUS ROG Strix.

  • Power Supply Unit (PSU) - Provid...read more

5d ago

Q. Which tools did you use in your previous organization?

Ans.

I have experience with various security tools for monitoring, analysis, and incident response in my previous organization.

  • Used Splunk for log management and real-time monitoring of security events.

  • Handled SIEM tools like IBM QRadar for threat detection and incident response.

  • Utilized Wireshark for network traffic analysis and troubleshooting.

  • Employed Nessus for vulnerability scanning and assessment.

  • Worked with endpoint protection tools like CrowdStrike for malware detection.

4d ago

Q. What would you do in case of a Ransomware attack?

Ans.

Isolate infected systems, disconnect from network, report incident to management, restore from backups.

  • Isolate infected systems to prevent further spread of ransomware

  • Disconnect infected systems from the network to prevent communication with the attacker

  • Report the incident to management and IT security team for further investigation

  • Restore affected systems from backups to recover data without paying ransom

Asked in Systems Plus

2d ago

Q. What are the various types of cyber attacks?

Ans.

Cyber attacks can be classified into various types based on their methods and targets.

  • Malware attacks (e.g. viruses, worms, trojans)

  • Phishing attacks (e.g. social engineering, email scams)

  • Denial of Service (DoS) attacks

  • Man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks

  • SQL injection attacks

  • Cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks

  • Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

  • Ransomware attacks

  • Cryptojacking attacks

  • IoT-based attacks

  • Password attacks (e.g. brute force, dictionary attacks)

Asked in SafeAeon

3d ago

Q. What is the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption?

Ans.

Symmetric encryption uses a single key for both encryption and decryption, while asymmetric encryption uses a pair of keys - public and private.

  • Symmetric encryption is faster and more efficient than asymmetric encryption.

  • Asymmetric encryption provides better security as the private key is never shared.

  • Examples of symmetric encryption algorithms include AES and DES.

  • Examples of asymmetric encryption algorithms include RSA and ECC.

Asked in Genpact

5d ago

Q. How would you rectify a new attack?

Ans.

To rectify a new attack, I would first analyze the attack vector, contain the attack, investigate the root cause, implement necessary security measures, and update incident response procedures.

  • Analyze the attack vector to understand how the attack occurred

  • Contain the attack by isolating affected systems and limiting further damage

  • Investigate the root cause of the attack to prevent future incidents

  • Implement necessary security measures such as patching vulnerabilities or updati...read more

6d ago

Q. What are HTTP Response Codes?

Ans.

HTTP response codes are status codes returned by a server in response to a client's request.

  • HTTP response codes indicate the status of a requested HTTP resource

  • They are three-digit numbers grouped into different categories

  • Some common response codes include 200 (OK), 404 (Not Found), and 500 (Internal Server Error)

Asked in SafeAeon

3d ago

Q. What are the different types of malware?

Ans.

Different types of malwares include viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and rootkits.

  • Viruses: Malicious software that can replicate itself and infect other files.

  • Worms: Self-replicating malware that spreads across networks.

  • Trojans: Malware disguised as legitimate software to trick users into installing it.

  • Ransomware: Malware that encrypts files and demands payment for decryption.

  • Spyware: Malware that secretly monitors and collects information about a user's ...read more

Asked in UI Softech

3d ago

Q. What challenges did you face in your previous job role?

Ans.

In my previous role as a SOC Analyst, I faced challenges like threat detection, incident response, and resource limitations.

  • Constantly evolving threat landscape required continuous learning and adaptation.

  • Limited resources made it difficult to monitor all endpoints effectively, leading to potential blind spots.

  • High volume of alerts necessitated prioritization, often resulting in critical threats being overlooked.

  • Collaboration with other teams was sometimes challenging due to ...read more

Asked in ISA Global

6d ago

Q. Explain ISO-OSI layers ? What is ADSL?

Ans.

ISO-OSI layers are a conceptual framework used to understand network communication. ADSL is a type of broadband internet connection.

  • ISO-OSI layers refer to a model that divides network communication into seven layers, each with specific functions.

  • ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) is a type of broadband internet connection that allows faster download speeds compared to upload speeds.

  • ISO-OSI layers include physical, data link, network, transport, session, presentation, ...read more

5d ago

Q. mitre tactics types of ddos attack types ofSQLattack

Ans.

MITRE ATT&CK framework categorizes DDoS attacks under Impact (T1498) and SQL injection attacks under Execution (T1210)

  • MITRE ATT&CK framework categorizes DDoS attacks under Impact (T1498)

  • Types of DDoS attacks include UDP flood, SYN flood, HTTP flood, etc.

  • MITRE ATT&CK framework categorizes SQL injection attacks under Execution (T1210)

  • Types of SQL injection attacks include Union-based, Error-based, Blind SQL injection, etc.

3d ago

Q. What is the architecture of Splunk?

Ans.

Splunk's architecture consists of components for data ingestion, indexing, searching, and visualization.

  • Splunk has three main components: Forwarders, Indexers, and Search Heads.

  • Forwarders collect and send log data to Indexers. For example, Universal Forwarder is lightweight.

  • Indexers process and store the incoming data, creating searchable indexes.

  • Search Heads allow users to perform searches and visualize data through dashboards.

  • Splunk can scale horizontally by adding more Ind...read more

2d ago

Q. What is the structure of ArcSight?

Ans.

ArcSight is a security information and event management (SIEM) software that helps organizations detect and respond to security threats.

  • ArcSight uses a hierarchical structure of components such as connectors, Logger, ESM, and Command Center.

  • Connectors collect and normalize data from various sources.

  • Logger stores and indexes the collected data for analysis.

  • ESM (Enterprise Security Manager) correlates and analyzes the data to detect security incidents.

  • Command Center provides a ...read more

Asked in SafeAeon

6d ago

Q. OSI Model and working of each layer

Ans.

The OSI model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven layers.

  • Layer 1 - Physical: Deals with physical connections and data transmission. Example: Ethernet cables

  • Layer 2 - Data Link: Manages data transfer between devices on the same network. Example: MAC addresses

  • Layer 3 - Network: Handles routing and forwarding of data packets. Example: IP addresses

  • Layer 4 - Transport: Ensures reliable data transfer betwee...read more

6d ago

Q. What is SIEM, How to work SIEM etc.

Ans.

SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) collects and analyzes security data for threat detection and compliance.

  • SIEM aggregates logs from various sources like firewalls, servers, and applications.

  • It uses correlation rules to identify suspicious activities, e.g., multiple failed login attempts.

  • Real-time monitoring allows for immediate alerts on potential threats.

  • SIEM aids in compliance reporting for regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.

  • Examples of SIEM tools include Splunk...read more

Asked in Atech Cloud

2d ago

Q. What are Phishing Attacks?

Ans.

Phishing attacks are fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details by disguising as a trustworthy entity.

  • Phishing attacks often involve emails that appear to be from legitimate sources, asking recipients to click on a link or provide personal information.

  • Common types of phishing attacks include spear phishing, whaling, and pharming.

  • Phishing attacks can also be carried out through phone calls (vishing) or text message...read more

Asked in Temenos

1d ago

Q. What is SQL injection?

Ans.

SQL injection is a type of cyber attack where malicious SQL code is inserted into input fields to manipulate a database.

  • SQL injection allows attackers to access, modify, or delete data in a database.

  • Attackers can also execute commands on the database server.

  • Preventing SQL injection involves using parameterized queries and input validation.

  • Example: Inputting ' OR 1=1 --' into a login form to bypass authentication.

Asked in Atech Cloud

4d ago

Q. Discuss your Security Certifications.

Ans.

I hold certifications such as CISSP, CEH, and CompTIA Security+.

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

  • CompTIA Security+

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