The cloud has been around long enough that there are no shortage of security protocols and mechanisms available to keep data secure. However, in considering the actual move to the cloud there are a few major pain points that come to the forefront, from maintaining security during the actual migration to outsourcing one of a company's most important tasks. And yet for organizations that have not yet made the move, or only partially (and perhaps haphazardly) migrated to the cloud, the benefits of being based in a cloud system is undeniable, with increases in flexibility, efficiency and profitability. Yet it can be hard for an institution to fully commit to cloud computing because of security concerns. Let's take a closer look at what those concerns are and how to keep security tight when you do decide to make the move.
Currently, the vast majority of institutions are using cloud computing. Since 2018, 96% of organizations have used it to some capacity. The benefits grow each day as entirely on-site computing makes less and less sense in today's world. The main drawback with moving primarily to the cloud is always security concerns. Here are some of the best ways to make sure the move goes smoothly.
Those who have migrated to the cloud partially over time are particularly vulnerable to making this error. To expect the on-site security protocols to function properly while cloud computing is foolish. It's necessary to create an organization wide security protocol that is specifically based on the security needs of cloud computing, and based on the specific security needs of the cloud system your organization is using. The key here is to work closely with your cloud service provider to create a system that works with your organization's existing framework but is built specifically for the new needs which the cloud will require.
Many treat on-site data as general storage, not distinguishing between kinds of data in how they store their data. This may not be the wisest course of action for the cloud. Being able to understand the kind of data you have, and the sorts of protections you need will help to create a safe migration plan. Some people even find it is worthwhile to use different cloud service providers (CSPs) for different types of data and tasks. Sorting data also allows an organization to undertake a phased migration. For example, this could mean moving lesser value data first.
From the GDPR to HIPAA, you are no doubt very familiar with those regulations that affect your organization. But the key in maintaining regulation compliant security within the cloud, is being certain your CSP meets your needs, and that you are prepared for what changes are coming down the line. Moving forward it is likely the California Consumer Privacy Act will portend broader security measures going into effect across the country. Are both you and your CSP ready to adapt to upcoming regulations? Knowing what you need now, and what your needs will be moving forward helps you choose the right CSP to most effectively meet those needs.
Knowing about your public CSP is a key part of establishing and maintaining security in the cloud. There are a few basic models of public clouds, and all of them offer different models for shared responsibility of security. Let's look at the three main kinds:
One of the most important parts of insuring security, is being able to trust your CSP. Here are a few questions that must be asked as part of due diligence.
One of the most powerful ways to test for security effectiveness is through penetration testing. It's necessary to see if the CSP you choose allows for it through an API, but if so, this allows the security of the containerization process to properly tested.
And as always, one of the most important ways to maintain security is to follow best practices, here is a guide from the non-profit organization, the Cloud Security Alliance, which offers security guidelines for the cloud.