What is Cloud Security?
Cloud Security is a set of policies, controls and technologies that work together to protect cloud-based systems, data and infrastructure. It encompasses everything from authenticating access to filtering traffic and even preventing cyberattacks that threaten business operations.
A primary challenge with cloud security is that data moves between multiple storage locations and the on-site application. It’s also vulnerable when it’s en route, as it may pass through public networks that aren’t properly secured. This is why end-to-end encryption is the best option for critical data in the cloud.
Another cloud security issue involves the fact that many applications and databases have interfacing capabilities with other services and hardware. This means that a malicious actor can exploit misconfigured assets and breach the network by exploiting the interface between different devices or software. This is why a thorough cloud security solution must be configured at the application level, with strong password management and other forms of protection.
It’s essential that businesses choose the right products based on the scale of their ecosystems, the complexity and importance of data in each instance, and whether they need to meet regulatory compliance or client privacy standards. A good place to start is by mapping the entire scope of your cloud environment and then making a list of all the apps, devices, servers and other infrastructure you need to secure.
Then look for solutions that can handle the complexities of your specific environment, with options that include threat intelligence and forensic analysis. You’ll also want a system that provides alerts and notifications to keep stakeholders in the know, as well as an easy-to-use console for managing your cloud security.