It is important to remember that cloud security is a shared responsibility between you and your cloud service provider. While your CSP maintains the security of the infrastructure itself, you, as the user, must maintain your application’s security within the cloud. It is critical to maintain good practices on both sides to mitigate the risk of attacks and the possible loss of data. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
1. Encrypt your data during storage and transmission
Always use SSL for communicating with your CSP or within your own application in the cloud. On the OS level, you can also use encryption tools like BitLocker and rueCrypt.
2. Implement host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)
Maintaining firewalls on your computers adds an extra layer of protection against attacks. You can also have separate security measures like log in tools or logging in to an external, central location, so that in case your system is compromised internally, you have another buffer against an attack. You should also implement a strong password policy. This is a simple security measure but is nevertheless critical, as many systems can be broken into with brute force techniques.
Finally, you should also consider solutions provided by key security partners, such as those provided by TrendMicro and Symantec.
3. Defend your application against Layer 7 attacks
Layer 7 attacks, like SQL injection and DDoS, are directed against your application itself. To mitigate this risk, you have to consider the security of your application from the beginning, making sure that data entered into your app is verified and formatted correctly. You will also want to perform API authorization and authentication for API-based applications.
4. Stay updated with the latest security developments and patches
As security concerns are always evolving in the cloud, remember to keep your security measures up-to-date with the latest upgrades and patches. You may leverage on automated package updated services like YUM and WSUS. You should also apply updates to your installed applications, the software environment, and any languages.
Know when your CSP implements major changes in their infrastructure or policies, and how these changes affect your data.
5. Regularly review your security details
Finally, you should also do regular security reviews, rotate keys and passwords, and keep up to date with the latest security threats.
Remember, security is a shared responsibility between you and your CSP. If you currently have ongoing security concerns in the cloud or want to learn more about best practices in cloud computing, don’t hesitate to consult our experts here in Polarseven.
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