Numerous methodologies are used for fortifying cybersecurity in the cloud ecosystem. In this article, we take a look at various steps which are to be followed during the process of workload migration so that the assets of an organization are well protected in the hybrid and public cloud environment.
First Decision
It needs to be strategically decided about the applications that need to be moved to the cloud ecosystem. More often than not, companies may start with less strategic applications for migration purposes. After this, more strategic applications and infrastructure are migrated.
Identification
The process of identification is all about choosing the right Cloud Service Provider which can meet all aspects of our security requirements. We may choose many service providers for different types of workloads but the process may prove to be a costly one.
Cloud security posture management
The control areas which are associated with each workload need to be chalked out. As an example, the company may use a single factor or multi-factor authentication for robust security aspects. For more sensitive applications, behavior-based authentication may also be used. Another option is to ask third-party service providers for securing the security aspects of the cloud ecosystem.
Security template
The purpose of assigning a security template to different types of workloads helps in the process of migration. As an example, organizations may choose customized cloud controls for orthodox workloads and route the data access to strategic clients via a private data center.
Security solutions
For better security solutions, companies have the choice of choosing from existing on-premise security solutions, native solutions, and third-party solutions. Companies may also choose zero-trust network access if they want to control the access to ensure foolproof security solutions.
Prioritization
The process of prioritization is all about assigning controls following the importance of the applications that we want to migrate to the cloud ecosystem. A checklist needs to be created which holds the summary of each control for the functioning of applications in the IT landscape.
Standardization
The process of standardization involves the analysis of controls which help in quick decision making regarding the automation and implementation purpose. A list of controls needs to be formulated which can be reviewed periodically for auditing.
Governance model
Using a secure DevOps approach, different types of automated procedures can be created to implement control and enforce various security aspects. Various aspects of the governance model are aligned with the long-term goals of a company.
Feedback
A feedback mechanism needs to be in place which can help us in improving our experience of the process of implementation of a set of controls.
Monitoring
It is important to integrate the new controls with the functional security solutions for inducing uniformity in the security aspects of a company.
Conclusion
In one word, the process of workload migration needs to be accompanied by proper planning so that no lacuna is left in the security architecture of an organization.
