> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/python-development-quick-start-guide/cortex-xsoar-python-development-quick-start-guide/readme.md).

# Cortex XSOAR Platform Overview

Cortex XSOAR uses Python scripts to automate, integrate, and extend functionality. It is implemented as a single Linux service (demisto) and provides:

* The Cortex XSOAR UI
* Control and execution of integrations for collecting threat and incident data
* Incident response orchestration and automation through playbooks

Over 700 Marketplace content packs provide out-of-th- box (OOTB) integrations and playbooks supported by a common base of 300+ commands and automation scripts. While automations do support JavaScript and PowerShell, the most comprehensive support is for Python-based development.

The Cortex XSOAR service uses two mechanisms for communication: the REST API and standard input/ouput/error streams provided by Linux.  The Cortex XSOAR browser-based UI uses the REST API. Scripts may also use the REST API for additonal functionality. The standard input/output/error streams are internal to the Cortex XSOAR server for communicating with automation scripts executed within Docker and Podman containers and are not directly accessed by user developed scripts.

![cortex-xsoar-high-level-architecture.png](/files/na4SGkv7pbT5V8brsa6c)


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