Handbook
SIEM vs SOAR vs XDR vs MDR, Explained
SIEM, SOAR, XDR, MDR what's the real difference? Clear definitions, comparison table, and guidance on which approach fits your team size and budget.
Quick definitions
SIEM = log management + rule-based detection. SOAR = playbook-driven response automation. XDR = cross-source detection and response (usually vendor-locked). MDR = managed detection and response service (outsourced).
Comparison table
Side-by-side comparison of SIEM, SOAR, XDR, MDR, and Agentic SOC on key dimensions.
Which fits which team size?
0 security staff → MDR or Agentic SOC. 1–3 staff → Agentic SOC or cloud SIEM. 3–10 staff → SIEM + SOAR or Agentic SOC. 10+ staff → any model, but agentic SOC improves efficiency.
Where an agentic SOC fits
An agentic SOC combines the detection of SIEM, the response automation of SOAR, the cross-source correlation of XDR, and the 24/7 coverage of MDR in one autonomous platform.
Making the right choice
Don't buy what you can't staff. The most common mistake is buying SIEM + SOAR without the team to operate them. For most organizations, an agentic SOC provides the best automation-to-effort ratio.
Put this into practice
See how Helxon applies these principles with autonomous investigation and response.