In previous blogs, we’ve explored Microsoft’s evolving branding for security tools, but we continue to get questions—especially around how Microsoft Sentinel (SIEM/SOAR) and Microsoft Defender XDR relate to each other, and where SIEM, SOAR, and XDR as broader concepts intersect and diverge.
The reality is that modern platforms such as Microsoft Defender XDR, Palo Alto Cortex XDR, and CrowdStrike Falcon blur traditional categories. So, let’s unpack each and draw practical distinctions where they matter most.
SIEM: The Traditional Core of Data Collection and Analytics
Security Information and Event Management tools aggregate logs from across your environment—endpoints, servers, firewalls, cloud apps—and analyze them to spot anomalies and generate alerts. Analysis can include longitudinal correlation across multiple data sources, as well as bringing in enrichment data such as threat intelligence.
As a SIEM is a core log repository, beyond predefined rules or conditions it also can serve as the launching point for threat hunting, as well as for compliance reporting.
When something suspicious is found, SIEM solutions often trigger automated workflows that invoke the SOAR components.
SOAR: Rapid Automated Action
Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response acts as a central coordinator where SIEM leaves off. SOAR interacts with many technologies by using playbooks, enabling coordinated, automated responses to threats. These playbooks can isolate compromised devices, reset users or privileged access, or escalate incidents—without delays often caused by human analysis.
SOAR brings operational efficiency with less manual intervention, faster containment, and consistent execution. It also reduces alert fatigue on security teams by operationalizing context-aware decisions based on SIEM inputs and threat intelligence.
XDR: Native Integration
Extended Detection and Response is the natural progression. It absorbs many traditional SIEM and SOAR capabilities but adds cross-domain correlation, exposure management, and deeper built-in integration.
XDR can unify endpoints, identities, applications, network traffic, and cloud resources. Advanced platforms use AI and machine learning to stitch together telemetry and threat signals—turning fragmented insights into actionable, prioritized incidents. In some cases, it can even auto-remediate before a human gets involved.
What distinguishes XDR from legacy stacks is its consolidated architecture. Rather than separate tools stitched together, XDR offers a native platform designed to minimize gaps, accelerate response, and elevate strategic oversight.
So, Do We Still Need SIEM?
It depends. Organizations who are heavily invested in an advanced XDR platform may find themselves duplicating functionality by maintaining a standalone SIEM. But others rely on SIEM for compliance, longer-term log retention, and functionality, such as threat hunting or isolated security technologies that XDR may not fully support.
The right approach hinges on your architecture, security maturity, and operational goals. SecureSky helps untangle these decisions. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a no-cost consultation tailored to your unique environment and needs.