Navigating cloud security: striking the perfect balance (Guest blog from Cyberhive)

Author: Shelly Johnson, Marketing Manager, CyberHive 

Let’s be honest, cloud computing has transformed the way businesses operate, offering convenience and efficiency. However, the cloud's immense capabilities also introduces significant security challenges. 

You could say, with great power comes great responsibility (where have I heard that before?).

In this blog, we'll embark on a journey into the realm of cloud cyber security, exploring the key factors influencing cloud security from edge to cloud. As well as emphasising the pivotal role of balanced decision-making in cyber security. 

Understanding the cloud security conundrum

The "edge" in cloud computing refers to computing locations situated near to where data is generated, while cloud computing involves accessing services over the internet rather than on a local computer. It's important to note that edge computing and cloud computing are not mutually exclusive; they often work in tandem.
Imagine your critical data as a valuable gem, and the cloud as a magical vault where you store it. Just like any precious gem, your data needs protection, and that's where cloud cyber security comes into play. It acts as your digital security guard, ensuring that your data gem remains safe from prying eyes.

Key factors to consider

Data encryption - locking the vault

Data security starts with encryption. It's akin to placing your gem in a vault and locking it with a complex code. However, making that code overly complicated can slow down your access to the gem. The trick is to find the sweet spot between security and complexity.

Access control - guarding the entrance

Just as you wouldn't want anyone strolling into your gem vault, access control ensures that only authorised personnel have access to your precious data. Yet, maintaining the balance between stringent security and user convenience is a delicate act.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) - Double locking the vault

MFA is like double-locking your vault. It adds an extra layer of security by requiring multiple forms of verification, similar to needing both a key and a fingerprint scan to access your gem. But, it can be an inconvenience when you're in a hurry to access your valuable data.

Monitoring and auditing - CCTV for your vault

Real-time monitoring and auditing are like having security cameras in your vault. They keep a vigilant eye on everything inside. However, excessive monitoring can lead to information overload, making it difficult to pinpoint genuine security threats amidst the noise.

Compliance and regulations - Playing by the rules

Every vault has rules to follow, and cloud security is no different. Sometimes, these rules can clash with your need for rapid deployment and flexibility in cloud environments, making finding the right balance essential.

Patch management - Fixing cracks in your vault

Just as your gem vault needs regular maintenance, your cloud systems need patches to address vulnerabilities. However, applying updates can sometimes disrupt your services temporarily. Organisations must manage this tradeoff effectively.

Integration and interoperability - Building tunnels to other vaults

The integration of various cloud services and applications is often necessary in business. Yet, the more tunnels you have, the harder it becomes to manage them all. It is crucial to find the right harmony between functionality and security. 

This leads us nicely to the next section to help with finding this security nirvana.

Balancing act: The great tradeoff

Balancing the key factors we have looked at, will involve making tradeoffs that impact both security and functionality. Essentially, what you need to consider is:

• Security vs. complexity: Stringent security measures can be perceived as cumbersome by users, potentially hampering their productivity.
• Cost vs. security: Organisations must carefully weigh the cost of cyber security measures against the potential financial impact of a security breach.
• Performance vs. security: Fast access to your data is essential, but you don't want to compromise security for speed. 
• Security vs. simplicity: The more complex your security measures, the harder they are to manage. 
• Privacy vs. data sharing: Protecting user privacy is paramount, but sharing data among users is often fundamental in cloud applications, so striking a balance between these two is vital.

Challenges awaiting you

Now we have covered some of the basics of cloud security, let’s look at what challenges you may come up against.

Managing security in a hybrid and multi-cloud environment, can be complex, and presents a formidable challenge in safeguarding your digital assets. Underscoring the importance of user vigilance, as human errors and insider threats can be detrimental. Ensuring the scalability of your security measures as your data assets expand. The ever-evolving landscape of digital threats, staying ahead of the game is imperative. Relying on third-party services in the cloud, can introduce security risks, necessitating due diligence in selecting providers and continuously monitoring their security practices.

Making informed decisions

Balancing key factors and addressing the challenges associated with cloud cyber security significantly impacts decision-making. Every decision made affects an organisation's overall security posture and success.

Here are five things to help you:

1. Risk assessment: Begin with a risk assessment. What are the threats and vulnerabilities specific to your assets? Identify them and prioritise security measures.
2. Security policies and procedures: Develop clear security policies and procedures, and document them thoroughly. Consistency is key.
3. User education: Don't forget the human factor. Train your team to recognise threats and follow security protocols. 
4. Scalability and flexibility: Ensure that your security measures can grow with your business.
5. Regular updates and testing: Keep your systems updated and conduct regular testing to ensure your security measures are effective.

Balancing the factors we've discussed, making trade-offs, and staying vigilant against emerging threats, are essential components of this cloud cyber security journey. Every decision you make has a profound impact on your data's safety, reputation, and overall success. So, invest in comprehensive risk assessments, well-documented security policies, user education, and ongoing testing to create a resilient cyber security strategy that safeguards your digital assets from the edge to the cloud.

For Cloud Week 2022, CyberHive wrote a blog on how your business can benefit from hybrid cloud computing.

Reach out to CyberHive’s team of experts today and let us guide you through implementing cyber security for your business – [email protected].