Delivering better outcomes through integrated security and network operations

Australian businesses are facing an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape while managing sophisticated network environments. According to the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) Cyber Threat Report, businesses reported 94,000 cybercrime incidents in the 2023–2024 financial year—that’s one every six minutes.*

With the convergence of networks and security, organisations require heightened visibility across the two to ensure resilience, minimise downtime, and proactively respond to threats.

To address these challenges, Optus has invested in an integrated Advanced Security Operations Centre (ASOC) and Network Operations Centre (NOC) which provides organisations with deeper visibility of their entire infrastructure.

Cyber threats are evolving faster than ever, with phishing attempts, Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks, and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) growing in frequency and complexity. Optus’ ASOC functions as a digital control room, staffed by highly trained cyber security specialists who continuously monitor, detect, and respond to threats in real time. Leveraging threat intelligence from Optus systems, key strategic partners, Singtel, and regional entities across the Asia Pacific, the ASOC provides a comprehensive view of emerging cyber threats.

The Optus Managed Threat Monitoring Service is one way the ASOC harnesses AI-driven intelligence to detect and respond to cyber threats in real time. This service seamlessly integrates with a customer’s managed firewall, aggregating and analysing vast volumes of firewall logs - often numbering in the millions. By leveraging AI-powered analytics, it intelligently filters out noise, pinpoints real threats, and reduces alert fatigue, enabling faster and more effective incident response.

“Gone are the days where human beings can trawl through endless logs to find the real threats. We need to use the power of AI,” - Chris Diffley, Client Security, Enterprise and Business.

A strong security posture means little without network resilience. The Optus NOC functions as the command centre for managing customer networks, providing real-time oversight and rapid response capabilities.

“We have a keen eye on planned events impacting the network, but also the unplanned events,” - Nick Kellett, Director, Major Incident Management.

Australia’s unpredictable weather—bushfires, floods, cyclones—can disrupt network operations when businesses and communities need connectivity the most. The Optus NOC continuously scans the network ahead of potential disasters, ensuring critical infrastructure is prepared.

By pre-staging batteries, deploying generators, and strategically positioning teams, Optus ensures coverage remains available when it’s needed most. This is particularly critical for emergency services and communities relying on communication during a crisis. 

In the event of network disruptions, Optus has multiple contingency options in place. Satellite Cell on Wheels (SATCATs) and portable satellite sites can be rapidly deployed to restore overlapping coverage if a base station is impacted—ensuring continuous connectivity, even in the most challenging conditions.

By integrating cybersecurity and network operations, Optus provides businesses with a unified platform that delivers greater visibility, faster incident response, and a stronger security posture.

“The benefits of an integrated NOC and SOC give us deeper visibility and a contextual view of a customer's network. This allows us to get to the root cause of the problem quicker,” - Tom Chan, Director, Smart Networking, Enterprise and Business.

This integration is strengthened by cyber analysts and network specialists working side by side, ensuring faster incident response and a more proactive defence against evolving threats.

When Optus manages a customer’s network, they gain access to specialised expertise and advanced technologies that may not be available in-house. This includes highly trained cyber security and networking specialists, as well as leading solutions from key strategic partners. Optus supports organisations of all sizes, from small and medium enterprises to federal agencies, adapting to their unique requirements with flexible and tailored solutions.

Want to learn more about how Optus can support your business with secure and reliable connectivity? 

_{*ASD, 2024, Annual Cyber Threat Report 2023-2024}