What is Cloud Computing Security?
Posted on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 and filed under Articles
Cloud security refers to all the security controls, practices, and tools used to defend private cloud, hybrid cloud, and public cloud services. Like any other computer system, the cloud requires specific protection methods to keep data and applications secure. Ok, so…what is cloud security really?
We hear you. We know that what we said is an obvious answer. While the definition of cloud security truly is that simple, there is more that goes into it. Not everything that worked for your on-premise server will work for the cloud and it’s important to recognize that to ensure continuous data protection.
That’s what we’re going to cover in this article today. We’ll drill into some more specific types of cloud security, unique cloud-related threats, and how you can keep yourself safe in the cloud.
| “Some people assume that because the cloud is more secure, they can skimp on their security measures. While they’re right that it’s more secure, no one should ever cut back on needed cyber protection.” – Jim Stackhouse, Founder & Chief Technologist, NeoLore Networks |
What is Cloud Workload Security?
Cloud workload security refers to the specific tools, practices, and policies that keep cloud-based workflows secure. This means that every piece of data processed, every application run, and every transaction made in the cloud is protected from potential threats.
For example, if your company collaborates on a cloud-based platform to design architectural blueprints. Every design modification would be a “workload” within this definition. Cloud workload security practices would ensure that hackers cannot exploit these workloads to access, alter, or steal your blueprints.
What is Infrastructure Security in Cloud Computing?
Infrastructure security in cloud computing is the set of strategies and measures designed to protect the foundational physical and virtual resources of a cloud environment. This includes servers, networks, storage solutions, and virtual machines.
Common practices include firewalls, encryption, and network monitoring. Some companies choose to partner with infrastructure-as-a-service (IAAS) providers to bolster their infrastructure security. However, you can still boost yours independently with the right best practices.
What is Data Security in Cloud Computing?
Data security in cloud computing refers to the measures, protocols, and technologies employed to protect data stored in cloud environments from theft, leakage, and unauthorized access or manipulation.
Despite the cloud’s heightened security, 57% of companies who use cloud computing report at least one security breach through the service. In most of those cases, it was a cloud data security incident.
| How Else Can You Keep IT in Shape? |
This shows that data security is too often the least optimized form of cloud security. Emphasize your team’s security responsibilities and prioritize data protection to stop yourself from joining that 57%.
What is Cloud Network Security?
Cloud network security is the practice of safeguarding the integrity and functionality of network infrastructure within cloud environments. It focuses on ensuring that the connections between cloud services, applications, and users are secure.
Cloud network security uses tools like firewalls and services like remote monitoring to monitor and control data traffic, ensuring only legitimate requests get through. For businesses using the cloud, this form of security is essential. It keeps data safe and ensures reliable access to cloud services.
What Are Cloud Security Threats?
Even though cloud servers are more secure, you can’t leave your cybersecurity practices behind you. Many of the same security issues remain if you don’t take the proper precautions. However, there are certain threats that are unique to the cloud.
| Cloud Security Threat | What it Means |
| Account Hijacking | Attackers gain control of a user’s cloud account, typically through stolen credentials, and misuse it. |
| Denial of Service (DoS) | Overwhelming a cloud service with traffic, causing it to slow down or crash, making it unavailable to users. |
| Insecure APIs | Poorly designed cloud software interfaces can allow attackers to exploit vulnerabilities and access data. |
| Malware Injection | Malicious software is inserted into cloud services, which can then spread to users or steal data. |
| Insider Threat | Employees or partners misuse their access to cloud data or services for malicious purposes or accidentally cause a breach. |
| Misconfigured Cloud Storage | Incorrect settings in cloud storage can unintentionally expose data to the public. |
| Man-in-the-Middle Attack | Attackers intercept data being transferred between users and the cloud, potentially altering or stealing it. |
How Can You Secure Your Cloud?
After learning all this, we’re sure your next question is how you can keep your cloud-based data centers safe. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do.
Access Control
Good access control should be the bare minimum in any IT system. It can even be as simple as the well-known username and password system. Still, you’ll want a bit more than that for your cloud server. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a good idea. You may also want to consider role-based access, where users are granted permissions based on their job responsibilities.
Data Encryption
Data encryption is the process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access. It ensures that even if data is intercepted or accessed without permission, it remains unreadable without the correct decryption key. Implementing this is as easy as using the encryption tools and protocols provided by your cloud service provider.
Consistent Updates
Regular, timely patches, upgrades, and improvements to software and systems ensure that vulnerabilities are addressed before they can be exploited. If your cloud service tells you it needs an update, update it.
Container Security Measures
If you use containers, these need their own set of security measures. If you don’t already know, a container packages an application and its required components so it can consistently across different environments.
It’s crucial to scan containers before they’re used. Only use container images from trusted sources and monitor their activities to spot any unusual behaviors. Keep containers separate from each other and the main system to limit potential risks.
Employee Training
Educating staff about the best practices, risks, and protocols related to cloud security is a must. Considering 88% of data breaches are caused by non-malicious human error, staff training could make a huge difference in your cloud security.
Managed Cloud Security Solutions
All of these practices are excellent ways to boost your cloud security. Yet, you could make it even better with help from cloud experts. Managed cloud security service providers can take a look at your network, help you boost it, or even provide a fully secure cloud solution.
One provider you could consider is NeoLore Networks. Using 100% Canadian infrastructure, we offer cloud services that not only significantly bolster cloud security but also significantly lower business costs.
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Reach out today to see if we’re right for you.