The Basics of Cloud Security

Cloud migration has become a major player in today's tech-savvy business environment. With flexible and cost-effective services, cloud computing offers affordable alternatives in an otherwise expensive technological sphere. The growth of cloud computing has, however, brought along numerous security challenges. Here are the basics of cloud security that every firm needs to know.

The Cloud Perimeter and Security Composition

Cloud security involves protecting computing resources and systems residing in the cloud; it also prevents unauthorized access to an organization's resources from computing environments, infrastructure, platforms, software, and databases. Enterprises can put policies, procedures, and technological tools in place to enforce security controls in the cloud. Security policies define the guidelines for handling the cloud ecosystem's perimeter. With clearly defined procedures, an organization can outline how to approach specific processes and tasks in adherence to the security protocol. These procedures encompass both in-house and third-party processes, providing a comprehensive blueprint of a firm's cloud security initiatives. Tech tools can include encryption, firewalls, and advanced solutions with artificial intelligence capabilities.

Top Cloud Security Threats

The cloud security landscape has become complicated in the recent past. Security teams need to be on high alert to deal with emerging, sophisticated cyberattacks. Some of these security threats include:

• Misconfigured cloud resources leading to system downtime events and data breaches
• A comprised application programming interface (API)
• Privileged user abuse which can cause company resource theft and data loss
• Cloud account hijacking involving account impersonations

Besides these threats, organizations have to deal with different problem areas such as complying with regulations, cybersecurity skill gaps, limited visibility on security infrastructure, and inconsistent security policies.

Securing the Cloud

Organizations can set up backup data solutions to prevent data loss in the event of a cyberattack. They can create duplications of data and store them in archives where they’ll be accessible for occasional use. Adopting tech solutions that provide an inventory of all cloud assets helps with defining the cloud perimeter. With this in mind, tech teams can better keep track of their assets and resolve any arising issues. Adhering to regulations and compliance standards like HIPAA and SOC also helps organizations secure sensitive assets. Organizations can choose to update access control lists to minimize insider threats regularly. For outside threats, multi-factor authentication (MFA) gives hackers a hard time accessing different credentials.

Earning a graduate certificate in Cyber Defense at Tulane School of Professional Advancement is ideal for anyone looking to explore cloud security at an advanced level. Our online graduate programs equip students for positions as industry leaders in cybersecurity. Request more information today to learn more about our programs.