Manage network security via the cloud. No need for extra hardware. Cloud computing security is the set of control-based technologies and policies designed to adhere to regulatory compliance rules and protect information, data applications and infrastructure associated with cloud computing use. Because of the cloud’s very nature as a shared resource, identity management, privacy and access control are of particular concern. With more organizations using cloud computing and associated cloud providers for data operations, proper security in these and other potentially vulnerable areas have become a priority for organizations contracting with a cloud computing provider. Cloud computing security processes should address the security controls the cloud provider will incorporate to maintain the customer’s data security, privacy and compliance with necessary regulations. The processes will also likely include a business continuity and data backup plan in the case of a cloud security breach.
Here are 6 things you need to know about cloud security.
It seems that every time the cloud is brought up in the enterprise, the conversation to follow is focused on how secure, or not secure, it really is. Some would have you believe the cloud is safer than on-premise, while others contend that it is the least safe place you could store your data. When thinking about cloud security, it’s ultimately up to each individual organization and its leadership to determine if a cloud deployment is the right strategy. However, cloud adoption is growing overall, and it is important to consider how it affects the organization.
1 The cloud security market is growing
According to the Research and Markets’ Global Security Services Market 2015-2019 report, the market for security products and services is growing globally and demand for cloud-based security is leading the charge.
2. It’s more than public vs private
One of the raging debates when it comes to cloud security is the level of security offered by private and public clouds. While a private cloud strategy may initially offer more control over your data and easier compliance to HIPAA standards and PCI, it is not inherently more or less secure. True security has more to do with your overall cloud strategy and how you are using the technology.
3. Storage is perceived as the riskiest cloud app
When most consumers think about the cloud, they are likely thinking about popular cloud storage and backup services. Cloud storage is important to the enterprise too, but it presents its own challenges. More than 50% of the respondents to the Cloud Usage: Risks and Opportunities Report from the Cloud Security Alliance listed storage as the most risky cloud application according to their organization’s definition of risk. The second most risky set of applications were those dealing with finance or accounting.
4. Controlling adoption is difficult
The rise of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) and bring-your-own-application (BYOA) trends means that many cloud services and tools are sneaking into organizations under the noses of IT leaders. Results of a survey conducted by The Register shows that 50% of respondents said the biggest challenge in regards to cloud services is getting the chance to assess security before a service is adopted by users.
5. Many organizations don’t have security policies
According to the Cloud Usage: Risks and Opportunities Report, 25.5% of respondents don’t have security policies or procedures in place to deal with data security in the cloud. Also, 68.1% said they do have security policies in place, and the remaining 6.4% didn’t know whether they do or do not have the proper policies in place.
6. The right tools aren’t always used
Fortunately, there are quite a few ways in which enterprises can make their cloud initiative more secure. While these tools and services exist, they aren’t always used the proper way, or even used at all.
Stephanie