Cloud Deployment Models: A detailed analysis

Abhinav Anand | January 28, 2022 | 2198 views

Cloud Deployment Models

The World of Cloud Computing

What is Cloud Deployment?

Cloud deployment is the process of deploying an application through one or multiple hosting models that leverage the cloud to act as a solution, allowing users to access data. This ideally includes architecting, planning, implementing, and operating various workloads on the cloud. There are different kinds of cloud deployment models used by businesses, enterprises, and even banks according to their requirements.

How Does a Business Advantage from Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing has evolved around data security and storage needs, which gives businesses the freedom to make huge on-demand investments. Cloud computing has also provided businesses with insights into CRM, access to the latest software with ease, and effective monitoring of resources and their optimization.

Key cloud computing aspects that can benefit your business:
  • Provides faster and simplified deployment of resources
  • With only need-based expenditure, it is highly cost-effective
  • It supports growth by leveraging global infrastructure
  • Supports new technologies and innovative digital business models
  • Effective disaster recovery and business continuity of applications
  • Access to applications from any location and on any device
  • Increases operational efficiency and reduces human effort

Understanding Different Types of Cloud Deployment Models

A cloud deployment model is ideally defined as a computing environment where the infrastructure of the deployment resides, how much data you wish to store, and who can control that infrastructure. Each cloud development model caters to various organizational needs, and you must select a cloud model that will satisfy the needs of your organization.

Let’s take a deep dive into the most sought-after cloud deployment models.

Public Cloud

A public cloud deployment model is one in which anyone who has access to the system and services can access them. The public cloud model is one that provides services to the general public or major industry groups over the internet. This model is often used by companies based on subscriptions and those with minimum security concerns.


Advantages and Limitations of Public Cloud:

Advantages:
  • This is the most affordable cloud deployment model available
  • It offers excellent vertical scalability using virtualization
  • Highly reliable, with a minimal possibility of interruption or scope of failure
  • Readily access services like SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS via all internet-enabled devices

Limitations:
  • Data security and privacy concerns lead to vulnerability
  • Usage cap on the available resource due to license limitations
  • With access to a wide range of users, there are chances of malfunctions and outages


Private Cloud

Private cloud deployment models are ideally used for a single organization. It offers businesses the opportunity to meet specific organizational requirements through customization. They are best suited for organizations with a mission-critical process that may require frequent changes.


Advantages and Limitations of Private Cloud:

Advantages:
  • Ideal for storing corporate data which can only be accessed by authorized personnel
  • With a sole proprietorship, you have complete control over services
  • Allows tailored solutions for companies to meet their needs
  • Designed to use with legacy systems that cannot access the public cloud

Limitations:
  • Overhead costs can be underutilized, affecting the model’s overall feasibility
  • Investment requires inexpensive hardware, software, and trained human resources
  • Requires high maintenance and in-house maintenance
  • Scalability is dependent on the type of hardware

Hybrid Cloud

A hybrid cloud deployment model is a combination of two or more cloud architectures. It bridges the private and public cloud deployment models. With a hybrid cloud model, one can enjoy a safe environment while effectively taking advantage of the public cloud’s cost-savings.

Advantages and Limitations of Hybrid Cloud:

Advantages:
  • Offers flexibility in designing personalized solutions that would help meet particular needs
  • With proper data segmentation, the possibility of data theft and cyber-attacks is significantly reduced
  • Overall, data storage using the public cloud provides cost-effectiveness

Limitations:
  • Setting up the hybrid model is complex due to integrating two or more cloud models
  • Possibility of a security breach by public cloud back-door
  • More effective for businesses with a wide range of workload management needs


Community Cloud

The community cloud model is ideal for supporting multiple organizations. This allows a group of organizations to access the systems and services. It is a distributed system curated by integrating the benefits of different clouds to address the specific needs of an industry, community, or business.

Advantages and Limitations of Community Cloud:

Advantages:
  • Multiple organization sharing the cloud model means it would be cost-effective
  • This model provides better security because it restricts access to only a set community of people
  • Using the community model helps you share your resources, infrastructure, etc., with other organizations


Limitations:
  • There is a start-up cost that is incurred to set up this cloud model
  • Technology upgrades are slow and time consuming
  • Community cloud models require consistent maintenance

Multi-Cloud

Multi-cloud is the amalgamation of multiple cloud models from various cloud platforms. This would also refer to distributing cloud assets, software, applications, and more across several cloud environments. A multi-cloud environment looks to eliminate the dependency on any single cloud platform.


Advantages and Limitations of Multi-Cloud:

Advantages:
  • Avoids vendor lock-in, enabling the business to deploy multiple specialists for their software requirements
  • Allows the organization to effectively cater to the increasingly stringent data privacy and governance regulations
  • Provides a high-speed infrastructure and maximizes application performance

Limitations:
  • Growing cloud costs are one of the primary limitations an organization will face
  • Multi-cloud requires specialist management expertise to ensure the IT environment is available and secure
  • There is a chance of security architectures being stretched beyond their limits by multi-cloud strategies

Cloud is about how you do computing, not where you do computing.”

Paul Maritz, VMware CEO


Types of Service Models in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing service models are also known as cloud delivery models. Cloud computing is offered in three types of cloud delivery models, each meeting a unique set of business requirements.

The three types of cloud delivery models are as follows:

Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)

SaaS is also known as “on-demand software.” It is a software where various applications are hosted by the cloud service provider, which allows users to instantly access a collection of applications on the cloud. This service model helps users by not having to manage and maintain software applications across multiple platforms.

Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)

PaaS offers the user access to a cloud-based environment where they can build and deliver applications without the need to install integrated development environments.
This ideally assists a programmer in developing, testing, running, and managing applications on a cloud computing platform.

Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS)

IaaS is also widely known as Hardware-as-a-Service (HaaS). IaaS aids in delivering networking and extensive databases for storage and servers. It helps users avoid the complexity and cost of buying and managing physical servers.


Choosing a Suitable Cloud Deployment Model for Your Business

While you are choosing your vendor for cloud deployment models, there are specific points that you must keep in mind to ensure that your cloud migration is as smooth as possible.

Understand the tools for your business's needs and scale them according to your requirements. It makes it easier for you to close in on a vendor and the model.

It is also essential that you pay close attention to the flexibility, scalability, and security needs on your roadmap. With all these components figured out, you will be able to effectively decide upon which model to opt for.

Real Business Example: Netflix's decision to go to the cloud was largely motivated because of the ever-increasing volumes of data they were dealing with. On the other hand, using the AWS Cloud, you can rapidly and simply scale your data warehouse up or down to match demand. When Netflix looked at the prices per stream on the AWS Cloud, they discovered that they were a fraction of what they were spending before.

Conclusion

Cloud computing has enormous potential for organizations of all sizes. The ability to choose one or a combination of cloud models ensures the utmost flexibility for any business. An essential component that one must take care of during their transition to the cloud is how the vendor handles your legacy systems.

Once you have all the critical components of cloud computing in place, you will effectively channel all your efforts towards achieving your business goals.

FAQ

What are the benefits of cloud computing?

Cloud computing effectively helps an organization reduce its IT operational costs. With the cloud provider offering all the underlying infrastructure, it takes a significant load off the organizations. Cloud computing is global, convenient, and easily scalable, while also being highly accessible.


How to choose from the different kinds of cloud deployment models available?

While every cloud deployment model has its own unique set of features, you must choose a cloud model as per your requirements. Each cloud model caters to specific conditions. For example, if privacy and security are big concerns for your organization, it is suggested that you choose the private cloud model, as it is the most secure deployment model available.

What are the risks involved in cloud computing?

Some of the most common risks of cloud computing are:
  • Limited visibility of network operations
  • Risk of data breach and cyber-threats
  • Data leakage and loss of data are primary concerns.

Spotlight

CMA

At CMA, we believe in building something bigger than ourselves, every day. We support the missions of our client partners and build tailored business solutions that are excellent, efficient, reliable, and value-based. CMA has provided information technology (IT) products and services since 1984. We serve commercial, industrial, and public sector industries. CMA has offices around the country with corporate headquarters in New York’s Tech Valley.

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Cloud App Development, Cloud Deployment Models, Cloud Security

3 Hybrid Cloud Security Strategies for Managing Privileged Access

Article | June 29, 2023

Mastering strategies for Privileged Access Management is essential for fortifying Hybrid Cloud Infrastructure. Discover strategies such as role-based access control and just-in-time privilege access. 1 Essentials of Privileged Access Management (PAM) 1.1 Why Use PAM in Enterprises and Hybrid Cloud Infrastructures 2 Key Challenges in Hybrid Cloud PAM Implementation 2.1 Privileged Access Management Across Cloud and On-premises 2.2 Security Policy and Compliance in Hybrid Environments 2.3 Dynamic Cloud Resource Scaling and PAM Solutions 3 Advanced Strategies for Effective PAM in Hybrid Cloud 3.1 RBAC and JIT Privileged Access 3.1.1 Granular Access Controls Based on User Roles 3.1.2 JIT Access for Reduced Attack Surface 3.2 Privileged Session Management and Monitoring 3.2.1 Real-time Session Monitoring for Privileged Users 3.2.2 Privileged User Activities Analysis for Compliance 3.2.3 Suspicious Activity Detection and Alerts 3.3 Automation and Orchestration of PAM Processes 3.3.1 Automating Privileged Access Provisioning and Deprovisioning 3.3.2 Integrating Orchestration Tools in PAM for Hybrid Cloud 4 Conclusion Safeguarding critical assets in hybrid cloud operations and ensuring data integrity becomes crucial to cloud security compliance for organizations, as monitoring and logging of privileged access are prone to getting compromised due to elevated access control, which allows privileged accounts to erase the logs. With more access, attackers with access to privileged access accounts can gain access to the company’s vital resources and even erase the logs, so the threat can go undetected. This underscores the importance of privileged access management. Striking the perfect balance between enhanced security measures and streamlined access controls empowers organizations to harness the full potential of hybrid clouds while mitigating the risks associated with privileged access. This article delves into the key strategies and best practices for managing privileged access in a hybrid cloud environment, encompassing both cloud-hosted and on-premises-hosted digital assets. It explores the effective utilization of cloud Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions to safeguard critical resources while ensuring comprehensive logging and precise access control. 1. Essentials of Privileged Access Management (PAM) 1.1 Why Use PAM in Enterprises and Hybrid Cloud Infrastructures PAM safeguards sensitive data, mitigates security risks, and maintains a strong security posture in enterprise hybrid cloud infrastructures with support from hybrid cloud providers. The functions of PAM for cloud include: Enhances security by centralizing control and minimizing risks Ensures compliance through access controls and auditing Enforces the least privilege principle, limiting access Provides session recording and monitoring for visibility Manages privileged access in hybrid clouds, maintaining consistent security 2. Key Challenges in Hybrid Cloud PAM Implementation The challenges in hybrid cloud PAM implementation include managing access across diverse cloud environments, ensuring policy consistency and compliance, and addressing dynamic resource scaling. 2.1 Privileged Access Management Across Cloud and On-premises Hybrid cloud with a cloud platform and an on-premises system poses challenges in control and oversight. Establish a unified approach to granting, monitoring, and revoking privileged access across diverse infrastructure types to maintain security and minimize vulnerabilities. It requires a robust PAM solution that supports multiple authentication mechanisms and integrates with various cloud providers' identity and access management services. It involves ensuring secure and auditable access to resources across these environments. 2.2 Security Policy and Compliance in Hybrid Environments Ensuring consistent security policies, controls, and compliance in hybrid environments is another significant challenge, as it involves harmonizing access management practices and maintaining regulatory requirements across multiple infrastructures. Organizations must define and enforce consistent access policies across all systems, regardless of their location or deployment model. Compliance requirements, such as regulatory frameworks and industry standards, add complexity to this task. 2.3 Dynamic Cloud Resource Scaling and PAM Solutions Addressing the dynamic nature of cloud resources and scaling PAM solutions is crucial, as hybrid environments often involve frequent changes in resource allocation and scaling, necessitating adaptable PAM systems capable of seamlessly accommodating such fluctuations. Cloud environments are characterized by the rapid provisioning and deprovisioning of resources. PAM solutions need to adapt to this dynamic nature by automatically discovering and managing privileged accounts associated with new resources while also scaling to accommodate increasing demands. 3. Advanced Strategies for Effective PAM in Hybrid Cloud Advanced strategies for effective PAM in hybrid clouds involve dynamic access controls, real-time monitoring, and integration with identity management solutions to ensure comprehensive security and compliance across diverse environments. 3.1 RBAC and JIT Privileged Access RBAC and JIT privileged access enable secure and efficient user access based on roles and responsibilities, reducing unauthorized privileges and minimizing security risks. 3.1.1 Granular Access Controls Based on User Roles It enables granular access controls by assigning privileges based on user roles and responsibilities, allowing organizations to enforce least privilege principles and restrict access to sensitive resources. These are crucial components of an effective PAM. Role based access control (RBAC) allows organizations to assign granular access controls based on user roles and responsibilities. This ensures that individuals have only the necessary privileges to perform their tasks, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. 3.1.2 JIT Access for Reduced Attack Surface It minimizes exposure and reduces the attack surface by granting temporary, time-limited access to privileged accounts when needed, mitigating the risks associated with permanent or long-term privileged access. It enables organizations to grant temporary privileges to users on a ‘just-in-time’ basis. This approach reduces the attack surface by limiting privileged access to specific timeframes, tasks, or systems, thereby minimizing the window of opportunity for malicious actors. 3.2 Privileged Session Management and Monitoring Control, record, and analyze privileged user sessions for enhanced security and unauthorized activity detection by utilizing privileged session management and monitoring. 3.2.1 Real-time Session Monitoring for Privileged Users It is essential for maintaining a secure PAM environment. Real-time session monitoring provides visibility into privileged user activities, allowing immediate detection of any unauthorized actions or policy violations. Recording and analyzing privileged user activities further aids compliance efforts and forensic investigations. 3.2.2 Privileged User Activities Analysis for Compliance Recording and analyzing privileged user activities is crucial for both compliance and security in privileged session management. By capturing and monitoring privileged user sessions, organizations can maintain a detailed audit trail, detect suspicious activities, and ensure accountability. This enables proactive threat detection, investigation of potential breaches, and adherence to regulatory requirements, ultimately bolstering the overall security posture of the organization. 3.2.3 Suspicious Activity Detection and Alerts Detecting and alerting on suspicious or unauthorized activities is crucial for proactive threat detection and incident response. PAM solutions should employ advanced analytics and anomaly detection techniques to identify potentially malicious actions, triggering alerts for immediate investigation and mitigation. 3. 3 Automation and Orchestration of PAM Processes Automating and orchestrating PAM processes streamlines privileged access workflows, improving security and efficiency in managing privileged accounts. 3.3.1 Automating Privileged Access Provisioning and Deprovisioning It minimizes the risk of human errors and ensures consistency in access management. Automated workflows can be established to handle user onboarding, role changes, and offboarding, reducing administrative overhead and enhancing security. 3.3.2 Integrating Orchestration Tools in PAM for Hybrid Cloud It enables seamless management across hybrid cloud environments. Orchestration tools can facilitate the synchronization of access policies, user directories, and authentication mechanisms, simplifying the administration and enforcement of PAM practices. 4. Conclusion Privileged Access Management (PAM) is of paramount importance in modern enterprises and hybrid cloud strategies for infrastructure. Effectively implementing PAM requires overcoming challenges related to managing privileged access across diverse environments, ensuring consistent security policies, and addressing the dynamic nature of cloud resources. Advanced strategies, such as RBAC and JIT privileged access, privileged session management and monitoring, and automation and orchestration, enhance the effectiveness of PAM in hybrid cloud environments. By adopting these strategies, organizations can strengthen their security posture, reduce the risk of unauthorized access, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Keeping up with technological developments by attending cloud security conferences helps organizations make the most of their budgets when choosing the appropriate cloud security solutions from the cloud security companies.

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Cloud App Development

Top 25 Cloud Security Companies: Protecting Data and Cloud Environments

Article | June 9, 2022

Unveil protectors of cloud environments with the top 25 cloud security companies, defending the digital fortress with unmatched expertise and solutions for the ultimate shield against cyber threats. Cloud security is a crucial aspect of protecting data and cloud environments from cyberattacks, breaches, and unauthorized access as more organizations adopt a remote work culture. Cloud security computing companies offer solutions and services that help organizations secure their cloud infrastructure, applications, and data using policies, procedures, technologies, and controls. In this article, explore the top 25 cloud security companies that are leading the industry in providing cloud security software, services, and solutions. These companies have been selected based on their reputation, customer reviews, product features, innovation, and market presence. Discover the benefits and challenges of cloud security and how to choose the best cloud security company for business needs. According to the IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report 2022, organizations that had mature cloud security procedures showed a cost decrease of more than half a million dollars over those in the early stages of securing their cloud environments. The highest maturity level in the application of cloud security practices reported a cost of USD 3.87 million, i.e., 15.7% less than the lowest maturity level in cloud security practices where no controls are used, which had a higher cost of USD 4.59 million. Cloud security challenges include compliance with regulations, visibility and control over resources, shared responsibility, integration with existing tools, and managing complexity and risk. Proactive measures and a robust security strategy help organizations leverage cloud benefits while mitigating risks. Cloud security companies enable experimentation with new technologies. Factors for selecting a suitable provider include the cloud environment, security expertise, features and functionality, reputation and reliability, and cost and value. It is easy for businesses to get the right type of cloud security services for their scope, functionality, and size from a curated cloud security companies list. Whether businesses are looking for the best cloud security companies, cloud based security companies, or cloud data security companies, find them in this list of top cloud security companies. 1.Aqua Security Aqua Security is a leading cloud-native security company specializing in cloud-native security solutions. Its unified console streamlines the transition from scanning and visibility to workload protection in cloud-native environments. Aqua Security's platform offers scanning, cloud security posture management (CSPM), sandboxing, and workload protection capabilities. It can be deployed as a SaaS or self-hosted solution. The platform provides comprehensive container activity visibility, enabling organizations to detect and prevent suspicious activity and attacks. It offers automated security and policy enforcement and simplifies regulatory compliance. 2.Aujas Cybersecurity Aujas Cybersecurity provides a range of services, including cloud security, managed detection and response, security testing, security engineering, IAM, and risk advisory services. The company aims to enhance security resilience by reducing attacks, threats, and risks. Through a strategic partnership with Microsoft, Aujas offers Managed Azure Sentinel security services to protect identities, clouds, data, applications, and endpoints from complex threats. As a leading cybersecurity service provider in the Middle East, Aujas secures digital ecosystems and value chains. Its comprehensive portfolio of next-generation security services addresses risks across networks, the cloud, and mobile devices. 3.Cloud and Things Cloud and Things is a company that presents cloud security consultation services to businesses. It offers advisory, analysis, and implementation services to help clients secure their cloud environments. Its goal is to drive the value of technology to business and foster an innovation culture within organizations. Its Strategic Advisory services include Extended CxO Services, Strategic Plan and Roadmap Development, and Emerging Technology Advisory. The team at Cloud and Things consists of Senior Business Leaders, Technology Leaders, Academic Researchers, and top Graduates who are dedicated to making a positive impact for clients. Choosing Cloud and Things enables businesses to access a team of experts who can guide them through the complexities of cloud security. 4.Cloud Direct Cloud Direct is an Azure Expert MSP and Microsoft Security Gold Partner, uniquely positioned to assist businesses in implementing a comprehensive security strategy. It utilizes Microsoft technologies and best practices across Azure Security, Microsoft 365 Security, Cloud Security, and Compliance. Its offerings include security assessments, deployments, and managed services, focusing on Azure Secure Score, Azure Sentinel, and advanced Azure cloud security. With a top 0.2% ranking among global Microsoft partners, it provides increased visibility and control over security estates through its in-house tool integrated with Microsoft Secure Score. 5.Eagle Eye Networks Eagle Eye Networks gives a smart video surveillance system that allows businesses to manage their operations anywhere, anytime, on any device. It uses artificial intelligence to transform video surveillance systems into critical business intelligence platforms. Its system enables businesses to gain visibility across their operations, react swiftly to opportunities, and improve overall processes and performance. Its system provides real-time motion alerts and allows businesses to create unlimited, personalized detection areas for each camera. Its system is secure by design, with security measures implemented both on-premises and in cloud transmission to ensure video is secure and encrypted with the highest reliability. 6.Fastly Fastly supplies an edge cloud platform that includes a content delivery network (CDN), image optimization, video and streaming, cloud security, and load balancing services. Its cloud security services offer protection against denial-of-service attacks, bot mitigation, and a web application firewall. Fastly ensures secure data storage and transfer with flexible and scalable Transport Layer Security (TLS) and Web Application Firewall (WAF) solutions. It offers a range of TLS options to meet different security needs, including PCI DSS Level 1 certification for handling sensitive information. Fastly's edge cloud network enables the caching of sensitive data while maintaining compliance standards. 7. Fidelis Cybersecurity Fidelis Cybersecurity is an industry innovator in Active XDR enabling proactive cyber defense and defense-in-depth. It helps safeguard data, assets, and services – no matter where they are located on networks. Fidelis offers two platforms: Fidelis Elevate and Fidelis CloudPassage Halo. Fidelis Elevate is an Active XDR platform that enables proactive cyber defense across cloud environments and on-premises. Fidelis CloudPassage Halo provides everything businesses need to make cloud computing security fast, automated, scalable, and cost-effective. This company is helpful for decision-makers and designations of people such as security teams, compliance auditors, IT managers, and DevOps teams. 8.Gigamon Gigamon is the leading provider of an intelligent Visibility Fabric that empowers cybersecurity and infrastructure professionals with pervasive and unfiltered visibility across physical and virtual environments. Its flagship product, GigaVUE Cloud Suite, is an essential component of the Gigamon Hawk architecture, offering businesses unparalleled control over their assets in private or hybrid cloud infrastructures. With GigaVUE Cloud Suite, companies can achieve comprehensive and granular visibility across popular platforms like AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Kubernetes, Nutanix, OpenStack, Red Hat, and VMware. Gain a unified view of all data in motion within organization’s hybrid, single, or multi-cloud network and effortlessly acquire, optimize, and direct traffic from any cloud workload to any desired destination. With Gigamon's cloud solutions, unlock rich and contextual network metadata for in-depth analysis, surpassing the limitations of traditional logs, events, and traces. 9.iboss iboss is a cloud security company offering fast and secure internet access for organizations on any device, from any location. Its iboss cloud platform delivers network security as a service, utilizing containerized architecture for web filtering, malware defense, and data loss prevention. Trusted by over 4,000 global enterprises, iboss enables cyber risk reduction through a Zero Trust service that safeguards resources and users in a distributed world. Its cloud-based approach ensures consistent and feature-rich protection for all users, regardless of location, simplifying internet access security and policy implementation for IT and Security Staff. 10.ISmile Technologies ISmile Technologies is a trusted Technology Advisor and Implementation Partner, delivering automation-enabled Intelligent Solutions and Managed IT services. With expertise in disruptive technologies like AI, Robotics, Data, and Analytics, it helps businesses compete and accelerate agility with enhanced security. Its streamlined delivery models leverage industry best practices and decades of experience across diverse industries. It offers business-specific cloud solutions to drive maximum impact at minimum cost and improve cloud monitoring capabilities for swift threat detection and response. Its solutions reduce errors by minimizing reliance on human intervention. 11.Lookout Lookout is a cloud security management tool that provides data-centric cloud security for protecting corporate data in the cloud, on-premises, or on devices. It offers a single, unified vantage point to effortlessly safeguard sensitive data in motion across apps, networks, and clouds. Lookout Cloud Security Platform is the only cloud-native solution that delivers zero trust security by reducing risk and protecting corporate data on any device, app, or location. With a centralized dashboard and unified policy framework, Lookout helps consolidate vendors for endpoint security and cloud security. It is among the top three vendors with the highest scores across all use cases in the 2023 Gartner Critical Capabilities for SSE Report. This tool is helpful for decision-makers and individuals responsible for securing endpoints from internet, device, network, and app-level threats. 12.Matilda Cloud Matilda Cloud enables businesses to reduce IT costs, accelerate application delivery, and drive digital transformation. Its software solution facilitates quick application migration, ongoing cost management, and automated software release pipelines. The platform offers a repeatable deployment framework, expense control across cloud partners, risk mitigation for software and security vulnerabilities, and accelerated application delivery through automated release management. It ensures a controlled and transparent cloud journey with a focus on optimizing costs and resource management. Matilda Cloud also prioritizes compliance, data security, and alignment with major cloud providers' well-architected frameworks. 13.Menlo Security, Inc. Menlo Security Inc. provides a complete, global cloud security platform that secures cloud transformations with zero compromise on risk, user experience, visibility, and control. Its solutions are built on the world's first and only Isolation Core. It solves for email security, web security, data protection, and threat prevention. It sets out to make online work secure, seamless, and simplified for everyone. It believes that security should prevent, not react. Organizations shouldn't have to sacrifice productivity for security. It pioneered an entirely reimagined, impervious approach to security that's built on zero-trust principles and leverages isolation as a core architectural pillar. It empowers organizations to adapt and map their journey to Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and beyond. 14.Netwrix Corporation Netwrix Corporation empowers information security and governance professionals to reduce breach risk and strengthen their security and compliance postures. Its solutions enable the detection, response, and recovery from attacks with ease. Trusted by over 13,000 organizations worldwide, Netwrix addresses all three primary attack vectors: data, identity, and infrastructure. It offers a comprehensive platform for on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments, covering diverse data types, applications, workstations, servers, and network devices. By eliminating blind spots and complexity, Netwrix mitigates breach risks efficiently and provides guidance using security frameworks like NIST. Its solutions secure organizations across all three primary attack surfaces: data, identity, and infrastructure. 15.Orca Security Orca Security is a leading Cloud Security Platform that identifies, prioritizes, and remediates security risks and compliance issues across major cloud providers. It offers instant-on security and compliance without agent-related challenges, delivering simplified operations through a single SaaS-based platform. Orca Security prioritizes risks based on severity, accessibility, and business impact, allowing organizations to focus on critical alerts. Renowned businesses like Databricks, Lemonade, Gannett, and Robinhood trust it because it provides complete visibility of the entire cloud estate. 16.Perimeter 81 Perimeter 81 offers simpler, smarter, and more accessible network security solutions to meet present and future needs. It has gained significant traction in the Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and SASE markets. Its technology replaces legacy VPNs and firewalls, providing a unified zero-trust network as a Service. It integrates local and cloud resources, safeguards user traffic and endpoints, and enables customizable and scalable network access policies from a single platform. Perimeter 81 seamlessly integrates with major cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure. It complies with stringent software security standards such as SOC 2 Type 2, GDPR, CCPA, and ISO 27001. Its cloud-based service allows companies to effortlessly manage their networks and security, breaking free from legacy hardware. 17.RSI Security RSI Security is a compliance and cybersecurity provider that assists organizations in achieving success in cybersecurity risk management. It specializes in mitigating risk and protecting data, serving leading companies, institutions, and governments worldwide. RSI Security helps organizations develop comprehensive cloud security plans aligned with strategic business goals, covering the entire organization and partner network. It offers expertise in cloud solutions, providing detailed guides and assisting with the setup of tailored cloud solutions. With a systematic approach, it helps implement and manage IT and security for data, assets, networks, and devices. RSI Security also offers compliance advisory services, enabling seamless compliance attainment for standards such as PCI DSS, HIPAA, HITRUST, CCPA, GDPR, NIST, NERC, SOC 2, EI3PA, and more. 18.Safe Security Safe Security is a global leader in cybersecurity and digital business risk quantification. It provides an AI-Fueled Cyber Risk Cloud platform that predicts and prevents cyber breaches. It aggregates signals across people, processes, and technology to provide real-time, data-driven visibility of organization’s risk posture. It provides AI-driven breach predictions and prioritized actions to prevent breaches. It helps organizations prioritize security investments based on the potential risk to their businesses. It empowers boards with a defensible dollar-value estimate of their financial risk. It helps organizations get the right cyber insurance coverage by translating security controls into financial exposure for accurate underwriting. It is trusted by industry leaders and manages the cyber risk posture of Fortune 500 companies. 19.Saviynt Saviynt is a leading provider of next-generation Cloud Security and Identity Governance solutions. It provides a unique platform that manages high-value assets in the cloud and on-premises effectively. It is on a mission to safeguard enterprises through intelligent, cloud-first identity governance and access management solutions. It provides a single solution that can manage high-value assets in the cloud and on-premises effectively. It helps customers manage their exposure to risk and manage risk in their environment. It provides unique cloud security intelligence. It has achieved Leader Status in the Gartner IGA Magic Quadrant. It has won the Customer’s Choice Award from Gartner Peer Insights. 20.Sonrai Security Sonrai Security delivers enterprise cloud security for the public cloud. It provides a unique platform that combines workload, platform, identity, and data security in one platform. It offers unparalleled visibility and risk mitigation tailored for large enterprises. Its patented analytics reveal company’s unique cloud and provide a clear picture of all identities, activities, and relationships in an enterprise cloud. It helps organizations identify, prioritize, and reduce danger with their sensitive data. It provides best practices, workflow, advisors, and automation to support amazing cross-team cloud security operations. It provides a single solution that can manage high-value assets in the cloud and on-premises effectively. It helps customers manage their exposure to risk and manage risk in their environment. 21.Sysdig Sysdig is a cloud-native intelligence company that delivers cloud and container security. It provides a platform that helps stop cloud and container security attacks with no wasted time. It created open-source Falco, the standard for cloud-native threat detection. Using Falco, its platform provides real-time threat detection with the detail to immediately respond. It helps organizations prioritize vulnerabilities and trim excess. It provides real-time threat detection with the detail to immediately respond. CTO Loris Degioanni, one of the co-creators of WireShark, a visibility tool for monitoring and troubleshooting network infrastructure, founded it in 2013. 22.Tessian Tessian is an Intelligent Cloud Email Security platform that defends against threats and protects sensitive data using context-aware AI. It automates threat detection, prevention, and response, freeing up security teams for critical tasks. No configuration needed, it deploys quickly and integrates with existing email environments. Tessian stops various email attacks (ransomware, ATO, BEC, executive impersonation) legacy security misses. Its behavioral-based AI identifies anomalous employee activity, preventing email data loss. Trusted by leading enterprises, Tessian automatically detects and prevents advanced email threats. It alerts employees in real-time with tailored messages on appropriate actions. Recently, Tessian launched Tessian Respond, improving email threat identification and response. A new M365 add-in simplifies deployment. 23.Tufin Tufin, a leading cloud security company, automates hybrid cloud security for efficiency in diverse environments. It reduces access change times, enhancing security while enabling swift adaptation. By integrating security policy adherence into the CI/CD pipeline, it ensures faster and safer application delivery. Manual audit tasks are eliminated, saving time and resources through automation. Real-time visibility aids proactive monitoring and vulnerability identification. Continuous compliance ensures regulatory adherence in hybrid cloud setups, reducing risks. It seamlessly integrates with DevOps workflows, enhancing collaboration, efficiency, and security. Automating network access changes expedites audit preparations and addresses vulnerabilities promptly. Overall, Tufin empowers businesses to strengthen their security posture and achieve operational excellence in cloud security. 24.Vectra AI Vectra AI is a cloud security company that unifies the cloud, data center, networks, and IoT devices. It offers seamless integration, customized detections, and real-time monitoring for hybrid cloud environments. It excels at detecting attacker movement between public and private clouds, enabling comprehensive attack tracking. The platform enables automatic responses to attacks and utilizes security-led AI to detect various attack methods. It prioritizes threats by correlating behaviors across data centers and the cloud, providing clear visibility to security teams. Vectra AI delivers cloud-native threat detection, seamless integration, real-time monitoring, attacker tracking, automatic response capabilities, security-led AI, and effective threat prioritization, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking cloud security solutions. 25.Vehere Vehere specializes in Cyber Situation Awareness (CSA) and provides real-time visibility into network activities. It offers cloud security services and scalable solutions for Network and Infrastructure Security, Security Operations, Cloud Security, and IoT Security. Vehere's Cyber Situational Awareness provides a comprehensive view of regulatory changes, cyber-attacks, and vulnerabilities. Its solutions enable continuous network monitoring, enhance security, and reduce risks. Intelliworker, its Network Intelligence Analytics solution, leverages AI and machine learning to identify hidden threats from large-scale data, aiding in signal intelligence. Vehere ensures comprehensive protection across networks, clouds, workloads, and data with real-time threat detection, actionable Cyber Threat Intelligence, unscripted threat hunting, and streamlined incident response. Cloud security is an essential part of an organization that uses cloud computing services. It provides extensive benefits but poses some challenges. The top 25 cloud security companies showcased in this article are at the forefront of driving the evolution and innovation of cloud security. With their focus on data protection and securing cloud environments, they are revolutionizing cybersecurity for the cloud. Through proactive measures, seamless integration with IoT devices, and advanced surveillance systems, these companies fortify organizations against emerging threats. To ensure effective cloud security, organizations need to choose the best cloud security company for their needs by considering factors such as reputation, experience, compatibility, and cost for a robust cloud security posture.

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Cloud App Development, Cloud Security, Cloud App Management

Automating Cloud Security: How to Improve Security Posture in the Cloud

Article | July 31, 2023

Efficiently safeguard cloud: Unleashing automation for enhanced security in the digital realm. Elevate cloud security posture with smart strategies and best practices with advanced automation. Contents 1 Cloud Security Automation for a Secure Cloud Posture 1.1 Cloud Security Automation for Business Scalability 1.2 Automating Security in the Cloud 1.3 The Cloud Security Posture 2 Enhancing Cloud Security: Vital Components of Automation 2.1 Infrastructure as Code (IaC) 2.2 Cloud Based Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD) 2.3 Configuration Management 2.4 Security Automation and Orchestration 3 Implementing Automation for Cloud Security 3.1 Provisioning and Configuration Automation 3.2 Security Policy Enforcement through Automation 3.3 Cloud Detection and Response Automation 3.4 Compliance and Audit Automation 3.5 Cloud Security Automation Approaches for Business 4 Best Practices for Cloud Security Posture Improvement 4.1 Security Automation Frameworks and Tools 4.2 Integrating Security into DevOps Processes 4.3 Security Testing and Vulnerability Management Automation 4.4 Continuous Monitoring and Remediation 5 Futureproofing Cloud Security Automation with AI In an increasingly interconnected digital world, where cloud-based assets and data are the lifeblood of organizations, ensuring their security is of paramount importance. The answer lies in the power of cloud security automation—a game-changing solution that not only protects vital resources but also empowers businesses with scalability and flexibility. This article unveils how cloud security automation revolutionizes the way organizations safeguard their most valuable assets. 1 Cloud Security Automation for a Secure Cloud Posture 1.1 Cloud Security Automation for Business Scalability Cloud security automation is an indispensable shield that effectively safeguards cloud-based assets and data, ensuring secure, scalable, and flexible operations. By automating security processes, organizations can efficiently detect and respond to potential threats, minimize human error, and ensure consistent security practices across the cloud infrastructure. This allows businesses to scale and adapt swiftly without compromising on protection, establishing a cloud environment where threats are easily and quickly identified and neutralized and growth remains unhindered. 1.2 Automating Security in the Cloud Automating security in the cloud offers advantages such as enabling real-time cloud threat detection and response, reducing the time it takes to identify and mitigate security incidents. Automation also enhances scalability, allowing organizations to handle increasing workloads without compromising security, while providing a centralized view of security controls and compliance measures. 1.3 The Cloud Security Posture The cloud security posture refers to the overall security state and readiness of an organization's cloud environment. By implementing cloud security automation, organizations can proactively manage their security posture, ensuring proper configuration, patch management, and access control. This helps prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other potential vulnerabilities, enhancing the overall security of the cloud infrastructure. 2 Enhancing Cloud Security: Vital Components of Automation 2.1 Infrastructure as Code (IaC) Infrastructure as Code automates the deployment and management of cloud resources using machine-readable code. It ensures consistency, scalability, and reduces human error in security configurations. 2.2 Cloud Based Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD) CI/CD automates the build, testing, and deployment of applications and infrastructure changes. By integrating security testing and compliance checks with monitoring the continuous integration metrics, organizations ensure consistent and validated security measures throughout the development and deployment processes. 2.3 Configuration Management Configuration Management maintains the desired state of cloud resources and enforces security configurations. It defines and manages the configuration settings of cloud components, enabling organizations to enforce security policies, track changes, and remediate deviations. 2.4 Security Automation and Orchestration SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) combines security orchestration, automation, and incident response to streamline security operations. It integrates security tools, processes, and workflows to automate incident detection, response, and remediation, enhancing incident management efficiency and strengthening the cloud security posture. 3 Implementing Automation for Cloud Security 3.1 Provisioning and Configuration Automation Automating resource provisioning, network configuration, and access controls ensures efficient deployment and management of cloud resources. It reduces errors, accelerates deployment, and maintains a secure cloud environment. 3.2 Security Policy Enforcement Through Automation Cloud security automation helps enforce security policies consistently across cloud environments. It automates the application and validation of security controls like access controls, encryption, and logging, reducing human error and strengthening the overall security posture. 3.3 Cloud Detection and Response Automation Automated threat detection and incident response processes enable prompt identification and response to security incidents. Leveraging automated monitoring, log analysis, and threat intelligence tools allows proactive identification, faster containment and mitigation, and minimizes the impact of security breaches. 3.4 Compliance and Audit Automation Automating compliance and audit processes ensures regulatory adherence and a strong security posture. It automates compliance checks, configuration assessments, and audit trail generation, enabling cloud continuous monitoring, identification of non-compliant areas, and streamlined audits, ensuring a compliant and secure cloud environment. 3.5 Cloud Security Automation Approaches for Businesses 3.5.1 DevSecOps Integration: Small Enterprise: Integrate security practices into DevOps workflows for secure software delivery. Medium Enterprise: Strengthen security posture through automated security testing and vulnerability management. Large Enterprise: Implement advanced security testing, threat modeling, and secure software supply chain management. 3.5.2 Machine Learning-based Anomaly Detection: Offers benefits for all enterprise sizes in detecting and responding to security threats in real-time. 3.5.3 Infrastructure as Code (IaC) security: Small Businesses: Secure infrastructure code and configurations using automated code scanning. Medium Enterprises: Adopt dedicated tools and frameworks for secure infrastructure code. Large Enterprises: Establish comprehensive IaC security frameworks with code review and security-focused testing. 3.5.4 Cloud-native security tools: Small Businesses: Leverage built-in security features from cloud service providers. Medium Enterprises: Utilize cloud-native and third-party security tools. Large Enterprises: Invest in comprehensive cloud-native security toolsets for centralized management. 3.5.5 Continuous compliance monitoring: Small Businesses: Use automated compliance monitoring tools for security standards and regulations. Medium Enterprises: Automate compliance checks and generate reports for audits. Large Enterprises: Implement enterprise-wide continuous compliance monitoring with real-time monitoring. 3.5.6 Security Orchestration and Automation Response (SOAR): Small Businesses: Streamline incident response processes with basic SOAR solutions. Medium Enterprises: Enhance incident response capabilities with advanced SOAR platforms. Large Enterprises: Deploy comprehensive SOAR systems for complex incident response workflows. 3.5.7 Threat Intelligence Automation: Small Businesses: Utilize automated threat intelligence feeds and tools for insights into threats. Medium Enterprises: Invest in advanced threat intelligence automation solutions for proactive monitoring. Large Enterprises: Establish dedicated threat intelligence teams and leverage advanced automation systems. 3.5.8 Cloud workload protection platforms (CWPP): Small Businesses: Protect cloud workloads with automated security controls and monitoring. Medium Enterprises: Enhance cloud workload security across multiple cloud providers. Large Enterprises: Implement CWPP at scale with centralized management and automation. 3.5.9 Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM): Small Businesses: Assess and manage cloud security risks with CSPM, i.e., cloud security posture management tools. Medium Enterprises: Automate security checks and enforce compliance with CSPM solutions. Large Enterprises: Establish comprehensive CSPM programs for vast and complex cloud deployments. 3.5.10 Identity and Access Management (IAM) Automation: Small Businesses: Automate IAM processes for user provisioning and access controls. Medium Enterprises: Implement advanced IAM automation solutions for improved security and compliance. Large Enterprises: Adopt comprehensive IAM automation platforms for complex access management. The following cloud security automation approaches are critical for small, medium and large enterprises: 3.5.11 Threat Modeling and Simulation: Utilize automated tools to identify vulnerabilities and simulate attacks on cloud infrastructure. 3.5.12 Cloud-native Encryption and Key Management: Implement automated encryption and key management solutions for robust data protection. 3.5.13 Immutable Infrastructure: Automate changes to infrastructure components to minimize misconfigurations and reduce the attack surface. 3.5.14 Integration with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems: Automate the ingestion of security logs and events into a centralized SIEM platform for comprehensive monitoring and analysis. 3.5.15 Automated Security Training and Awareness: Use automated training platforms to educate employees and cloud users about cloud security best practices and cloud security monitoring best practices. 4 Best Practices for Cloud Security Posture Improvement 4.1 Security Automation Frameworks and Tools Implementing security automation frameworks and specialized tools streamlines and scales security operations. Automating tasks like - Configuration management Incident response Threat detection enables - Efficient enforcement of security controls Reducing manual effort and Enhancing the overall cloud security posture 4.2 Integrating Security into DevOps Processes Embedding security considerations throughout the software development lifecycle by integrating security into DevOps processes ensures proactive addressing of security risks. Incorporating practices like Secure coding, Vulnerability scanning, and Secure configuration management into DevOps workflows minimizes vulnerabilities and delivers secure applications and infrastructure. 4.3 Security Testing and Vulnerability Management Automation Automating security testing and vulnerability management identifies and remediates weaknesses in cloud environments. By using automated vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and code analysis tools, cloud infrastructure can be constantly evaluated, security gaps can be found ahead of time, and vulnerabilities can be fixed to improve cloud security. 4.4 Continuous Monitoring and Remediation Continuous monitoring and remediation practices maintain a robust security posture in the cloud. Employing automated monitoring tools and security information and event management (SIEM) systems enables real-time detection and response to security incidents. Automating incident response and remediation processes swiftly mitigates threats, minimizes downtime, and ensures a secure cloud environment. 5 Futureproofing Cloud Security Automation with AI Automating cloud security improves posture by streamlining processes, reducing errors, and increasing efficiency. Benefits include real-time cloud threat detection, rapid response, and scalability. Adopt a holistic approach using cloud-native tools, security-as-code practices, and DevOps integration for successful cloud posture security management. Leverage AI and machine learning for advanced threat detection. Stay updated with the latest trends in the cloud security sphere through networking events and cloud security conferences. Embrace cloud security and DevOps automation for stronger resilience and proactive threat mitigation.

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Cloud App Development, Cloud Deployment Models, Cloud Security

Monitoring and Logging for Privileged Access in Cloud Environments

Article | June 29, 2023

Boost cloud security with advanced privileged access monitoring (PAM) and logging principles. Get insights and compliance assurance by implementing monitoring and logging best practices in the cloud. Contents 1 Essentials of Privileged Access in Cloud Environments 1.1 Understanding Privileged Access 1.2 Significance of Privileged Account Monitoring and Logging 1.3 Overview of PAM in Cloud Environments 2 Monitoring and Logging Principles in PAM 2.1 Principle 1: Granular Access Control 2.2 Principle 2: Real-time Monitoring 2.3 Principle 3: Comprehensive Logging 2.4 Principle 4: Intrusion Detection 3 Implementing Monitoring and Logging in Cloud Environments 3.1 Access Monitoring Solutions 3.2 Log Management and Analysis 3.3 Integration with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems 3.4 Continuous Monitoring Best Practices 4 Best Practices for Privileged Access Monitoring and Logging 4.1 Role-based Access Controls 4.2 Privileged User Behavior Analytics 4.3 Incident Response and Alerting 4.4 Auditing and Compliance Requirements 5 Conclusion 1 Essentials of Privileged Access in Cloud Environments Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions are essential for privileged access security and privileged remote access in cloud environments. By implementing robust monitoring and logging principles, organizations can bolster their security defenses and meet rigorous auditing and compliance standards. According to Gartner, cloud security failures will be at least 99% the fault of the customer through 2023, with 50% attributed to insufficient access, identity, and privilege management. 1.1 Understanding Privileged Access Privileged access entails granting elevated permissions to users or accounts with administrative privileges, enabling critical operations and access to sensitive data. It involves bestowing administrative privileges like root access or superuser rights, which can exert a profound impact on the security and stability of the cloud infrastructure. 1.2 Significance of Privileged Account Monitoring and Logging Effective monitoring and logging of privileged accounts are vital for uncovering unauthorized activities, detecting potential security threats, and establishing an audit trail of privileged access events. Robust monitoring and logging mechanisms aid in: The detection of potential security incidents, Tracking user activities, and Facilitating swift responses to mitigate risks or breaches 1.3 Overview of PAM in Cloud Environments Privileged Access Management (PAM) solutions deliver centralized control and management of privileged accounts and access in cloud environments. PAM solutions reinforce robust access controls, implement the principle of least privilege, and streamline workflows associated with privileged access, thereby enhancing security, compliance, and operational efficiency in cloud environments. 2 Monitoring and Logging Principles in PAM Effective monitoring and logging are essential in privileged access solutions for robust security and accountability. Follow these principles for optimal practice: 2.1 Principle 1: Granular Access Control Provide fine-grained access controls so that privileged accounts can only be accessed and used by authorized users. Granular access controls ensure that privileged access is granted solely to authorized individuals or accounts based on their specific roles and responsibilities. 2.2 Principle 2: Real-time Monitoring Continuously monitor privileged accounts in real-time to swiftly detect and respond to suspicious activities or anomalies, bolstering the security of these critical accounts. Real-time monitoring enables proactive tracking of privileged access events, swiftly identifying anomalies or suspicious activities, and facilitating prompt response measures. 2.3 Principle 3: Comprehensive Logging Maintain detailed logs of privileged access activities for thorough auditing, investigation, and forensic analysis. This aids in incident response and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. Comprehensive logging captures detailed information about privileged access activities, including user actions, timestamps, and system events, enabling meticulous analysis and forensic investigations. 2.4 Principle 4: Intrusion Detection Employ intrusion detection mechanisms within the PAM solution to promptly identify and alert potential unauthorized access attempts or suspicious behavior associated with privileged accounts. Stay one step ahead by proactively mitigating threats. Effective intrusion detection mechanisms empower organizations to pinpoint potential security breaches or unauthorized access attempts, triggering appropriate alerts or countermeasures. 3 Implementing Monitoring and Logging in Cloud Environments Implementing monitoring and logging in cloud environments is essential for ensuring the security, performance, and reliability of cloud-based systems. This involves deploying the best PAM solutions for monitoring, effective log management and analysis, integrating with security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and following continuous monitoring best practices. By adopting these measures, organizations can proactively identify and address issues, mitigate risks, and optimize their cloud infrastructure. 3.1 Access Monitoring Solutions Implement comprehensive access monitoring mechanisms to track user activities and resource access within the cloud environment. Utilize cloud provider tools or third-party solutions that offer granular visibility into user actions, API calls, and system events. Set up alerts and notifications to promptly detect unauthorized access attempts or suspicious activities. Deploying access monitoring solutions, such as session recording, termination, and isolation, enhances visibility into privileged access activities within cloud environments. 3.2 Log Management and Analysis Establish a robust log management strategy to collect, store, and analyze logs generated by various cloud services and applications. Leverage centralized log management platforms that enable efficient log aggregation, indexing, and retention. Utilize log analysis techniques, such as search queries, filtering, and correlation, to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential security incidents. Establishing robust log management practices encompassing centralized collection, storage, and analysis enables effective monitoring, auditing, and incident response capabilities. 3.3 Integration with Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems Integrate monitoring and logging solutions with SIEM systems to enhance threat detection and incident response capabilities. Feed relevant log data into the SIEM platform to correlate events, perform real-time monitoring, and generate actionable insights. Leverage SIEM functionalities, such as automated alerts, incident workflows, and reporting, to streamline incident management processes. Integrating PAM solutions with SIEM systems enables the correlation and analysis of privileged access events alongside other security events, augmenting threat detection capabilities. 3.4 Continuous Monitoring Best Practices Implement continuous monitoring practices to ensure ongoing visibility and detection of changes and potential issues. Set up automated monitoring tools and scripts for regular checks on system metrics, performance indicators, and security configurations. Establish predefined thresholds and triggers to initiate proactive actions like resource scaling, administrator alerts, or automated remediation processes. Embracing continuous monitoring practices ensures ongoing scrutiny of privileged access activities, enabling swift detection and response to potential security incidents. By implementing comprehensive monitoring and logging in cloud environments, organizations can bolster their cloud security posture, optimize resource allocation, and enhance incident response capabilities. Regular review and refinement of these practices are critical to staying ahead of evolving threats and technological advancements in the cloud ecosystem. 4 Best Practices for Privileged Access Monitoring and Logging Privileged access monitoring and logging are critical practices for tracking and recording activities performed by privileged users within an organization's network or data ecosystem. With elevated access rights, privileged users can perform critical tasks and access sensitive information with elevated PAM network security and PAM data security using a PAM security solution. Effective monitoring and logging practices for privileged access are essential to maintaining security, preventing unauthorized actions, and ensuring compliance. Here are four best practices to consider: 4.1 Role-based Access Controls Assign specific roles and permissions based on users' job responsibilities and functions using Role-based access controls (RBAC). Implement RBAC to ensure users have only the necessary privileges required for their tasks, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Regularly review and update access controls to align with organizational changes, such as role changes or terminations. Implementing role-based PAM access control enforces the principle of least privilege, limiting privileged access to authorized individuals or accounts based on their specific needs. 4.2 Privileged User Behavior Analytics Use Privileged User Behavior Analytics (PUBA) to monitor and analyze privileged user actions for detecting suspicious or anomalous behavior. Implement PUBA solutions leveraging machine learning and behavioral analytics to establish a baseline of normal user behavior and identify deviations that may indicate malicious activities. PUBA helps detect unauthorized access attempts, privilege abuse, or insider threats, enabling organizations to take immediate action and mitigate risks. Leveraging privileged user behavior analytics empowers organizations to identify anomalous behavior, deviations from normal usage patterns, and potential insider threats. 4.3 Incident Response and Alerting Establish an effective incident response and alerting system for timely detection and response to potential security incidents involving privileged access. Implement robust monitoring tools that generate real-time alerts for suspicious activities like multiple failed login attempts or unauthorized privilege escalation. Define clear incident response procedures and assign responsibilities to ensure prompt investigation and resolution of identified security incidents. Establishing an incident response framework and configuring real-time alerts facilitates the prompt identification, assessment, and remediation of security incidents. 4.4 Auditing and Compliance Requirements Regularly audit privileged access activities to ensure compliance with industry regulations and internal policies. Implement a centralized logging system that records all privileged access events, including user actions, executed commands, and critical configuration changes. Periodically review and analyze access logs to identify non-compliant actions or potential security gaps, taking appropriate measures to address them. Meeting auditing and compliance obligations entails regular auditing of privileged access logs, conducting periodic reviews, and generating audit reports to satisfy regulatory mandates. 5 Conclusion Organizations gain visibility into privileged access events, including user identities, timestamps, and performed actions by implementing comprehensive monitoring and logging solutions. This information facilitates compliance audits, helps identify suspicious behavior, and supports forensic investigations in the event of a security incident. Continuous monitoring and real-time alerts enable proactive threat detection, enhancing the overall security posture of cloud environments. By implementing the outlined PAM security principles, best practices, and PAM software solutions, organizations can fortify their cyber security privileged access management strategies, mitigating the risks associated with unauthorized access and potential security breaches.

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CMA

At CMA, we believe in building something bigger than ourselves, every day. We support the missions of our client partners and build tailored business solutions that are excellent, efficient, reliable, and value-based. CMA has provided information technology (IT) products and services since 1984. We serve commercial, industrial, and public sector industries. CMA has offices around the country with corporate headquarters in New York’s Tech Valley.

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Ericsson and Google Cloud Jointly Develop an AI-Powered Cloud RAN

Ericsson | September 25, 2023

Ericsson and Google Cloud join forces to introduce Ericsson Cloud RAN on Google Distributed Cloud, enhancing automation and AI/ML capabilities for CSPs. The collaboration enables highly efficient and secure distributed cloud solutions, leveraging Google Cloud services like Vertex AI and BigQuery. Ericsson and Google Cloud's expanded partnership offers CSPs greater flexibility and advanced solutions to meet evolving network demands. Ericsson has announced an expansion of its partnership with Google Cloud, introducing an Ericsson Cloud RAN solution on Google Distributed Cloud (GDC). This collaboration, utilizing the x86-based accelerator stack, aims to provide integrated automation and orchestration through AI and ML. The solution promises faster service delivery, enhanced efficiency, and increased flexibility for communication service providers (CSPs) in their networks. GDC offers a fully managed hardware and software portfolio, extending Google Cloud's capabilities to the edge and data centers. The Ericsson vDU and vCU are successfully running on GDC Edge in the Ericsson Open Lab in Ottawa, Canada. Deploying Ericsson Cloud RAN on GDC Edge enables a highly efficient, secure, and scalable distributed cloud for radio access network infrastructure. Running Ericsson Cloud RAN on GDC Edge will enable CSPs to leverage Google Cloud services such as Vertex AI and BigQuery to enhance the usability of data sets from Cloud RAN applications, offering opportunities for better control and optimization. This collaboration allows CSPs to build networks based on open standards and interface with multiple vendors. Ericsson's Cloud RAN solution is infrastructure-agnostic, accommodating various cloud infrastructures. To enhance cloud-native automation, Ericsson and Google Cloud are collaborating on the open-source project Nephio, aiming to standardize critical functionality. Mårten Lerner, Head of Product Line Cloud RAN at Ericsson, emphasizes the partnership's benefits for cloud-native solutions and automation, providing flexibility and choice for CSPs. Gabriele Di Piazza, Senior Director of Telecom Products at Google Cloud, acknowledges Ericsson as a distinguished Google Cloud Partner, highlighting their support for mutual customers. This expansion of the Ericsson-Google Cloud partnership aims to empower CSPs with advanced solutions for their evolving networks. The integration of Ericsson Cloud RAN with Google Distributed Cloud may add complexity to network management and require additional investment in personnel training for CSPs. The partnership between Ericsson and Google Cloud offers CSP automation and AI/ML capabilities for faster service delivery and greater network efficiency. Google Distributed Cloud ensures secure infrastructure, and CSPs can optimize data management with services like Vertex AI and BigQuery while maintaining vendor diversity through open standards and interfaces. This collaboration equips CSPs to meet evolving network demands effectively.

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Cloud Infrastructure Management

CoreWeave and VAST Data Join Forces to Build the Data Foundation for a Next Generation Public Cloud with NVIDIA AI

GlobeNewswire | September 27, 2023

VAST Data, the AI data platform company and CoreWeave, a specialized cloud provider powering many of the world’s leading generative AI efforts, today announced a strategic partnership that will further CoreWeave’s mission to deliver highly scalable and performant cloud infrastructure for AI and accelerated compute workloads. CoreWeave has selected the VAST Data Platform, the world’s first data platform designed for the AI era, to build a global, NVIDIA-powered accelerated computing cloud for deploying, managing and securing hundreds of petabytes of data for generative AI, high performance computing (HPC) and visual effects (VFX) workloads. CoreWeave did extensive research and testing before selecting VAST Data to power all of its data centers. The VAST Data Platform has the necessary scale, performance, and multi-tenant enterprise AI cloud capabilities required to power the massive AI and LLM training and inference applications that are now transforming everything from business, to science, to society itself. CoreWeave’s customers demand the most secure and scalable solutions on top of the industry’s fastest and most flexible infrastructure to keep their data safe," said Michael Intrator, CEO and co-founder of CoreWeave. We’re delighted to partner with VAST Data to deliver a multi-tenant and zero-trust environment purpose-built for accelerated compute use cases like machine learning, VFX and rendering, Pixel Streaming and batch processing that’s up to 35 times faster and 80 percent less expensive than legacy cloud providers. This partnership is rooted in a deep technical collaboration that will push the boundaries of data-driven accelerated computing to deliver the world’s most optimized AI cloud platform. Through their joint partnership CoreWeave and VAST Data are leveraging NVIDIA technology to engineer a new data platform architecture for large-scale, end-to-end data pipelines and deliver next-generation data services for AI workloads. To support this, the VAST Data Platform boasts an enterprise network attached data store that is certified for use with NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD and eliminates tiers and infrastructure silos to make large scale AI simpler, faster and easier to manage at virtually limitless levels of scale and performance. “Since our earliest days, VAST Data has had a single vision of building an architecture that could power the needs of the most demanding cloud-scale AI applications," said Renen Hallak, Founder and CEO of VAST Data. "We could not imagine a better cloud platform to realize this vision than what we’re creating with CoreWeave. We are humbled and honored to partner with the CoreWeave team to push the boundaries of modern AI computing and to build the infrastructure that will serve as the foundation of tomorrow’s AI-powered discoveries.” About VAST Data VAST Data is the data platform software company for the AI era. Accelerating time-to-insight for workload-intensive applications, the VAST data platform delivers scalable performance, radically simple data management and enhanced productivity. Launched in 2019, VAST is the fastest-growing data infrastructure company in history. For more information, please visit https://vastdata.com and follow VAST Data on Twitter and LinkedIn. About CoreWeave Founded in 2017, CoreWeave is a specialized cloud provider, delivering a massive scale of GPU compute resources on top of the industry's fastest and most flexible infrastructure. CoreWeave builds cloud solutions for compute-intensive use cases — machine learning and AI, VFX and rendering, life sciences, the Metaverse, and real-time streaming — that are up to 35 times faster and 80% less expensive than the large, generalized public clouds. Learn more at www.coreweave.com.

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Cloud App Management

Dell Technologies delivers hybrid cloud innovation with Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure

iTWire | September 27, 2023

Dell Technologies today announced the availability of Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft, a new fully integrated turnkey system developed in collaboration with Microsoft that extends the Microsoft Azure hybrid cloud experience to data centre and edge environments. It’s the first offer in the Dell Apex Cloud Platform family and the first available Premier Solution for Microsoft Azure Stack HCI. This new Azure Stack HCI solution category only includes platforms that provide fastest time to value for Azure hybrid cloud through the deepest levels of integration with Microsoft. Dell Technologies and Microsoft have a long history of hybrid cloud innovation and collaboration to help customers deploy apps and data wherever they need them. 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Cloud App Development

Ericsson and Google Cloud Jointly Develop an AI-Powered Cloud RAN

Ericsson | September 25, 2023

Ericsson and Google Cloud join forces to introduce Ericsson Cloud RAN on Google Distributed Cloud, enhancing automation and AI/ML capabilities for CSPs. The collaboration enables highly efficient and secure distributed cloud solutions, leveraging Google Cloud services like Vertex AI and BigQuery. Ericsson and Google Cloud's expanded partnership offers CSPs greater flexibility and advanced solutions to meet evolving network demands. Ericsson has announced an expansion of its partnership with Google Cloud, introducing an Ericsson Cloud RAN solution on Google Distributed Cloud (GDC). This collaboration, utilizing the x86-based accelerator stack, aims to provide integrated automation and orchestration through AI and ML. The solution promises faster service delivery, enhanced efficiency, and increased flexibility for communication service providers (CSPs) in their networks. GDC offers a fully managed hardware and software portfolio, extending Google Cloud's capabilities to the edge and data centers. The Ericsson vDU and vCU are successfully running on GDC Edge in the Ericsson Open Lab in Ottawa, Canada. Deploying Ericsson Cloud RAN on GDC Edge enables a highly efficient, secure, and scalable distributed cloud for radio access network infrastructure. Running Ericsson Cloud RAN on GDC Edge will enable CSPs to leverage Google Cloud services such as Vertex AI and BigQuery to enhance the usability of data sets from Cloud RAN applications, offering opportunities for better control and optimization. This collaboration allows CSPs to build networks based on open standards and interface with multiple vendors. Ericsson's Cloud RAN solution is infrastructure-agnostic, accommodating various cloud infrastructures. To enhance cloud-native automation, Ericsson and Google Cloud are collaborating on the open-source project Nephio, aiming to standardize critical functionality. Mårten Lerner, Head of Product Line Cloud RAN at Ericsson, emphasizes the partnership's benefits for cloud-native solutions and automation, providing flexibility and choice for CSPs. Gabriele Di Piazza, Senior Director of Telecom Products at Google Cloud, acknowledges Ericsson as a distinguished Google Cloud Partner, highlighting their support for mutual customers. This expansion of the Ericsson-Google Cloud partnership aims to empower CSPs with advanced solutions for their evolving networks. The integration of Ericsson Cloud RAN with Google Distributed Cloud may add complexity to network management and require additional investment in personnel training for CSPs. The partnership between Ericsson and Google Cloud offers CSP automation and AI/ML capabilities for faster service delivery and greater network efficiency. Google Distributed Cloud ensures secure infrastructure, and CSPs can optimize data management with services like Vertex AI and BigQuery while maintaining vendor diversity through open standards and interfaces. This collaboration equips CSPs to meet evolving network demands effectively.

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Cloud Infrastructure Management

CoreWeave and VAST Data Join Forces to Build the Data Foundation for a Next Generation Public Cloud with NVIDIA AI

GlobeNewswire | September 27, 2023

VAST Data, the AI data platform company and CoreWeave, a specialized cloud provider powering many of the world’s leading generative AI efforts, today announced a strategic partnership that will further CoreWeave’s mission to deliver highly scalable and performant cloud infrastructure for AI and accelerated compute workloads. CoreWeave has selected the VAST Data Platform, the world’s first data platform designed for the AI era, to build a global, NVIDIA-powered accelerated computing cloud for deploying, managing and securing hundreds of petabytes of data for generative AI, high performance computing (HPC) and visual effects (VFX) workloads. CoreWeave did extensive research and testing before selecting VAST Data to power all of its data centers. The VAST Data Platform has the necessary scale, performance, and multi-tenant enterprise AI cloud capabilities required to power the massive AI and LLM training and inference applications that are now transforming everything from business, to science, to society itself. CoreWeave’s customers demand the most secure and scalable solutions on top of the industry’s fastest and most flexible infrastructure to keep their data safe," said Michael Intrator, CEO and co-founder of CoreWeave. We’re delighted to partner with VAST Data to deliver a multi-tenant and zero-trust environment purpose-built for accelerated compute use cases like machine learning, VFX and rendering, Pixel Streaming and batch processing that’s up to 35 times faster and 80 percent less expensive than legacy cloud providers. This partnership is rooted in a deep technical collaboration that will push the boundaries of data-driven accelerated computing to deliver the world’s most optimized AI cloud platform. Through their joint partnership CoreWeave and VAST Data are leveraging NVIDIA technology to engineer a new data platform architecture for large-scale, end-to-end data pipelines and deliver next-generation data services for AI workloads. To support this, the VAST Data Platform boasts an enterprise network attached data store that is certified for use with NVIDIA DGX SuperPOD and eliminates tiers and infrastructure silos to make large scale AI simpler, faster and easier to manage at virtually limitless levels of scale and performance. “Since our earliest days, VAST Data has had a single vision of building an architecture that could power the needs of the most demanding cloud-scale AI applications," said Renen Hallak, Founder and CEO of VAST Data. "We could not imagine a better cloud platform to realize this vision than what we’re creating with CoreWeave. We are humbled and honored to partner with the CoreWeave team to push the boundaries of modern AI computing and to build the infrastructure that will serve as the foundation of tomorrow’s AI-powered discoveries.” About VAST Data VAST Data is the data platform software company for the AI era. Accelerating time-to-insight for workload-intensive applications, the VAST data platform delivers scalable performance, radically simple data management and enhanced productivity. Launched in 2019, VAST is the fastest-growing data infrastructure company in history. For more information, please visit https://vastdata.com and follow VAST Data on Twitter and LinkedIn. About CoreWeave Founded in 2017, CoreWeave is a specialized cloud provider, delivering a massive scale of GPU compute resources on top of the industry's fastest and most flexible infrastructure. CoreWeave builds cloud solutions for compute-intensive use cases — machine learning and AI, VFX and rendering, life sciences, the Metaverse, and real-time streaming — that are up to 35 times faster and 80% less expensive than the large, generalized public clouds. Learn more at www.coreweave.com.

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Cloud App Management

Dell Technologies delivers hybrid cloud innovation with Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure

iTWire | September 27, 2023

Dell Technologies today announced the availability of Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft, a new fully integrated turnkey system developed in collaboration with Microsoft that extends the Microsoft Azure hybrid cloud experience to data centre and edge environments. It’s the first offer in the Dell Apex Cloud Platform family and the first available Premier Solution for Microsoft Azure Stack HCI. This new Azure Stack HCI solution category only includes platforms that provide fastest time to value for Azure hybrid cloud through the deepest levels of integration with Microsoft. Dell Technologies and Microsoft have a long history of hybrid cloud innovation and collaboration to help customers deploy apps and data wherever they need them. Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure is the latest innovation to stem from our long collaboration, said Dell Technologies regional director Apex Asia Pacific and Japan Karolis Macionis. “This new platform will enable organisations in the region to simplify their Azure management, accelerate application delivery, and offer flexibility to run their workloads across the cloud, edge, and data centre.” Dell Apex Cloud platforms are next-generation infrastructure that deliver consistent operations and more control over workload placement by extending the choice of cloud ecosystem on-premises. These platforms offer customers greater flexibility and investment protection over time by combining the best of Dell innovation in automated infrastructure management and orchestration, software-defined storage, and next-generation compute. Simplifying Azure on-premises The opportunity to extend Azure cloud services to on-premises environments is significant. According to an ESG study on multicloud application deployment trends, 48% of customers surveyed are expanding on-premises deployments. Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Azure provides an optimal way for customers to bring Microsoft Azure to their data centre and edge locations. This new platform builds upon decades of Dell and Microsoft collaboration. It combines Dell’s expertise in delivering software-driven management and orchestration and software-defined storage with Microsoft’s leadership in cloud services and container orchestration. “More of our customers are asking us to bring the power of Azure wherever they need it out in the real world, whether that is in their factories, retail stores, quick service restaurants, or distributed locations. Through our partnership with Dell, we can project just enough Microsoft Azure to those locations at the edge,” said Azure Edge + Platform corporate vice president Douglas Phillips. “This new solution gives our mutual customers a seamless experience from cloud to edge, wherever their data lives, so they can spend less time managing infrastructure and focus more on transforming their business.” Enhancing Azure hybrid cloud The Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure is designed to address several key IT priorities. Simplify management: This new offer delivers consistent Azure operations across on-premises locations and public cloud via native integration with Azure Arc. Deep integration and extensive automation enabled by Dell’s APEX Cloud Platform Foundation Software would deliver greater benefits to customers compared to past solutions. For example, the automated deployment wizard results in an 88% reduction in deployment steps compared to existing integrated systems, allowing customers to save more time when deploying the platform. Accelerate application delivery: Through optimised delivery of Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) hybrid, and Arc-enabled app and data services, the platform helps accelerate application delivery. Customers will be able to simplify management with deep integration and familiar tools. Users can also enforce consistent security and compliance policies across the Azure landscape through integration with centralised Azure management and governance services. Fastest time to value: To ensure customers get the fastest time to value and ongoing full stack support, Dell ProSupport Infrastructure Suite provides a single source of solution level-support for Dell hardware, system software, and Azure HCI. Onsite diagnosis, residency, data migration, data disposition, and education services cover tasks commonly required in a multicloud environment, allowing internal staff to focus on other priorities. Going above and beyond While the new Premier Solutions for Azure Stack HCI category represents the highest level of required automation, integration, and collaboration with Microsoft, Dell APEX Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure takes this even further. Lifecycle management: Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure delivers near instantaneous availability of new releases and patches - within just four hours of a Microsoft release. Single-pane, full-stack lifecycle management ensures the complete infrastructure stack always remains compliant. Unique automation: The platform provides automated cluster expansion, enabling rapid addition of on-premises infrastructure to meet workload requirements. Edge offerings coming soon: The specialised nodes based on the Dell PowerEdge XR4000 edge-optimised server platform to help customers extend Azure to the edge while minimising cost, footprint, and complexity. Ultimate flexibility coming soon: Dell Technologies will support additional storage configurations with Dell software-defined storage, making it the only offer to support linear scaling of storage resources independently from compute resources, helping customers address workloads with diverse performance, and scaling needs. Meeting customer and partner needs Dell has heard overwhelming excitement about this solution from customers and partners alike. Kyndryl, a strategic partner of Dell and Microsoft, is expanding its solutions with managed services for this platform. “In a rapidly changing IT landscape, Kyndryl is helping customers modernise their mission-critical environments to a hybrid cloud operating model. As a strategic alliance partner with Dell and Microsoft, we are excited for the availability of the new Dell Apex Cloud Platform that will provide a consistent Azure operation across on-premises and Azure public cloud,” said Kyndryl vice president private cloud services Kevin Powell. “We are committed to delivering services that help customers utilise the latest industry technology innovations from our ecosystem partners to deliver leading edge hybrid cloud solutions.” Through customer conversations, Dell is seeing existing customers familiar with the operational outcomes delivered by its automated software are excited to adopt the Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure to extend their Azure deployments on-premises. “More than 5,000 organisations around the world look to LoopUp to help them bring global communications to the cloud to support flexible work, increase productivity, simplify complexity, and reduce cost,” said LoopUp vice president of network operations Chris Stanley. “Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure’s deep software integration and lifecycle management will help us scale and deliver cloud telephony innovations faster and get the most value from our Azure hybrid deployment.” Orange Business, another strategic partner for Dell and Microsoft, is also excited about the transformative power Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure could hold for their customers. “As organisations increasingly turn to hybrid cloud strategies to help power digital experiences for their employees and customers, they need an efficient solution to easily manage it all from edge to core data centres to public cloud,” said Orange business marketing director of digital services Olivier Ménez. “Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure includes deep integrations and automation that will help us easily build and manage our customers’ data and applications in hybrid environments.” Delivering hybrid cloud innovation Dell’s customers can now get their hands on Dell Apex Cloud Platform for Microsoft Azure to see first-hand how it can help them unleash innovation by simplifying the Azure hybrid experience.

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