Cloud Computing with Advanced Security Services

The newest age of technology has brought us the cloud network. Cloud computing allows users to instantly and wirelessly share information and data between multiple devices (computer, laptop, phone, tablet, etc.) in various locations. As information was being shared faster than ever, it was crucial to assure that the cloud network had advanced security services.

Security cloud services rely heavily on the cloud suppliers. Clients are encouraged to check that their provider has taken the appropriate steps to guard their data and records, but it is the cloud suppliers’ responsibility to guarantee their network is safe and fully protected from outside sources. Cloud Security can be broken down into three basic categories: Security and Privacy, Compliance and Legal Issues.

Security and Privacy – To certify that only a particular customer will access their specific cloud service, cloud suppliers provide an identity management system. With this system, access to the desired data and information is limited strictly to specific customers, assuring that no outside or random user could access the information. Cloud suppliers officially state that physical machines containing clients’ information are securely guarded, restricted, and any entry or work on machines is carefully recorded and reviewed. Applications from the supplier are always protected, from the production to their actual usage by packaged application codes. All information (sales numbers, account numbers, credit card information, etc.) is hidden and coded and only approved individuals are allowed to view these. What is visible in the cloud network is based on individual authorization and clearance.

Compliance – Many regulations (Sarbanes-Oxley Act, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, etc.) are in place to provide a strong relationship between customer and supplier and to ensure that data is secured and viewed accurately and appropriately. In case of any problems, such as loss of data or any internal or external threats to the cloud information, cloud providers are required to have recovery and defense procedures. If any thing does happen, cloud suppliers maintain that any information will be recovered and that it is secure at all times. Cloud suppliers also compile audit trails to ensure that all activity on the cloud network is from the specified user. This data is appropriately protected and can be viewed incase of any disputes, for security review or for any criminal charges/cases.

Legal Issues – Before any business is conducted, the terms of the contract are negotiated so that the supplier can meet the specific security needs of every customer. Intellectual property and liability issues are discussed and agreed upon as well as any other concerns the supplier or customer may have.