Hybrid Cloud Security: 5 things asset managers must know

Table of Contents

• What is hybrid cloud security, and how do you implement it?
• 5 hybrid cloud security considerations for asset managers
  • Interoperability and collaboration capabilities
  • Automation within the infrastructure
  • Data security and data residency
  • Out-of-date and unpatched systems
  • Use of open-source technologies
• Fortify your hybrid cloud security with Virima

As an IT asset manager, staying on top of the latest cybersecurity trends and hybrid cloud technology is crucial—especially as user demand for secure remote working continues to grow. This topic of cybersecurity is significant as the number of cyberattacks seems to be growing each year. 

A report by Check Point found that global cyberattacks grew by 38% in 2022, and with the acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies this year, it will only increase with time. When you understand the overlap between these two aspects, you can better support your team. Cybersecurity also helps in maximizing the benefits from your hybrid cloud without risking business-critical data and systems.

In this article, we will look at five key considerations all asset managers should know when it comes to hybrid cloud security so that you can develop a more robust security strategy for your organization.

What is hybrid cloud security, and how do you implement it?

Hybrid cloud security crucially supports the integration of both public and private cloud platforms, facilitating optimal tool usage to accommodate scaling needs, and underpinning robust cybersecurity and privacy measures. The system typically spans several cloud types (public, private, or community) linked through advanced virtualization technology.

The strength of hybrid cloud security lies in its ability to permit organizations to retain control over sensitive information while capitalizing on the scalability and cost efficiency of the public cloud. In a hybrid cloud setup, companies can extend their workloads across varied environments to optimize performance. A standout feature of these architectures is their adaptability in resource management across numerous platforms without compromising data security.

To successfully implement a hybrid cloud, organizations need a deep understanding of their existing infrastructure and a clear evaluation of IT requirements. With these insights, they can develop a strategic approach that merges both onsite and cloud-based solutions.

This strategy should involve selecting the right mix of infrastructure resources, crafting applications that facilitate smooth integration across different clouds, and implementing governance frameworks to ensure continuous security and compliance. Additionally, scalability, reliability, performance tracking, cost efficiency, and disaster recovery are critical considerations in crafting a resilient hybrid cloud architecture.

Adopting a comprehensive hybrid cloud security plan allows businesses to enhance their operational agility, scalability, and availability, while also realizing cost benefits and flexible management of workloads across various cloud environments. It represents an appealing option for businesses eager to embrace the newest cloud technologies without forfeiting security or data control.

5 hybrid cloud security considerations for asset managers

Here are five key security considerations when it comes to deploying a hybrid cloud infrastructure: 

Interoperability and collaboration capabilities

To bolster hybrid cloud security, it’s essential to forge secure links among varied cloud infrastructures. This involves implementing robust identity and access management (IAM) protocols to ensure proper authentication and authorization, alongside encrypting data as it moves between systems.

Furthermore, reinforcing data storage in both private and public cloud environments with comprehensive access controls is vital. This approach guarantees that only those with authorization can tap into sensitive data, promoting robust cybersecurity practices.

Addressing interoperability, the strategic use of application programming interfaces (APIs) is crucial for seamless communication between disparate systems. Given that APIs can introduce vulnerabilities, it’s imperative to rigorously monitor their security status.

Moreover, maintaining awareness of compliance mandates relevant to the organization’s operational region or sector is critical. This becomes especially pivotal when navigating the diverse regulatory landscapes of various cloud services and providers, each presenting unique compliance challenges and standards.

Automation within the infrastructure

Prior to rolling out a hybrid cloud framework, it’s crucial to examine the integration of security automation while safeguarding existing data privacy and security measures. Automation can streamline managing hybrid cloud security challenges, yet it shouldn’t undermine the protection of sensitive information or the integrity of systems. In the realm of hybrid cloud security, it’s essential to recognize that automation isn’t a silver bullet for cybersecurity; instead, it requires diligent oversight to track modifications and pinpoint potential irregularities.

Key issues like misconfigurations and inadequate control over changes can arise with the implementation of automation. To mitigate these risks, it’s advisable to conduct thorough testing of automated processes before their live deployment and consistently pinpoint systems that necessitate updates or fixes. This vigilance is paramount since certain systems must be operational for automation to function effectively, and their downtime could disrupt the entire automated flow.

Moreover, the authentication protocols employed during the deployment phase warrant careful scrutiny. This includes verifying the identities of both users and automated entities within the hybrid cloud, necessitating stringent enforcement of access regulations to ensure only verified, trustworthy parties can tap into the platform’s services.

Additionally, when deploying automated solutions in a hybrid cloud setup, it’s important to assess potential attack vectors. While automation can expediently flag threats or anomalous patterns, it also could introduce new vulnerabilities if not overseen by a seasoned cybersecurity team proficient in both conventional and cloud-centric security strategies. Therefore, marrying automation with vigilant cybersecurity oversight is indispensable in a hybrid cloud environment.

Data security and data residency

Ensuring hybrid cloud security is crucial when safeguarding data against unauthorized intrusion. Implementing key strategies is essential for the protection of data, as well as the infrastructure that houses and conveys it. Encryption plays a pivotal role in cybersecurity, securing data both in transit and when stored. In addition to encryption, multi-factor authentication is another layer of defense, verifying that only verified individuals have access to sensitive data. Furthermore, robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) frameworks are vital across all operational terrains—from on-site hardware to cloud-based systems—with configurations refined to suit the specific needs of each setting. Such hybrid cloud security measures enable organizations to oversee user activities more effectively, curbing access to sensitive network segments while delivering required resources to their users.

Additionally, when navigating data residency considerations, hybrid cloud security mandates a thorough comprehension of regulations and privacy mandates within the jurisdictions of data storage. Aligning with these legal requirements is non-negotiable. Safeguarding any sensitive information through encryption and restricting access to accredited staff are steps you can take towards this end. Proactive security assessments of both cloud and on-premises servers, coupled with vigilant monitoring of outbound network traffic, are instrumental in detecting and thwarting unauthorized extraction of customer data.

Out-of-date and unpatched systems

Asset managers should know their organization’s security baselines and ensure all deployed images comply. Keeping track of patching cycles and prioritizing actions based on the threat model and risk, performance, and time considerations is vital to avoid any vulnerabilities. Regular vulnerability scanning should also be conducted. Plus, while applying patches, ensure they have been appropriately tested to identify potential issues before deployment in a production environment.

As cloud and containerized resources are deployed from base images, take appropriate measures to update those images regularly so they are free of known vulnerabilities. Updating base images eliminates potential security problems and helps keep hybrid cloud infrastructures up-to-date with technological advancements. 

To hasten this process and add a layer of efficiency, consider setting up automated patching systems, which will help reduce human error during patch deployment and save valuable time.

Use of open-source technologies

Before deploying a hybrid cloud infrastructure, you need to consider which open-source technologies you’ll be integrating into your network and their potential to compromise security. As these technologies are a boon to the hybrid cloud infrastructure, their use increases with time. However, it can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, creating a vulnerability in cybersecurity. It is where malicious code is inserted into legitimate software or malicious updates that can exploit weaknesses in third-party services and software. 

To prevent these attacks, inventory all open-source technologies used in the organization and stop using those from untrusted sources. Plus, it is vital to deploy the remaining open-source technologies securely by allocating resources and defining policies that will bring them back under the control of IT and security teams. 

You should also stay up-to-date on the latest vulnerabilities associated with different open-source technologies and ensure that additional security patches or updates are applied as soon as possible. It is best to implement continuous monitoring solutions like IT asset management software (ITAM) with cybersecurity capabilities to detect any malicious activity associated with open-source technology usage.

Fortify your hybrid cloud security with Virima

IT asset managers must consider several security considerations before deploying a hybrid cloud infrastructure. These considerations include securing access management, monitoring user behavior closely, regularly scanning for vulnerabilities, and adhering to compliance regulations. As cybersecurity and hybrid cloud infrastructure is spread over multiple clouds, it is crucial to use robust scanning technologies that can help you monitor it at all times.

Implementing an ITAM tool with cybersecurity capabilities is important to help IT professionals protect their environment from potential threats and catch any issues before they become serious. Such tools can offer advanced features such as automated vulnerability scans, user access audits, and streamlined compliance processes—all of which make it easier for IT asset managers to ensure the security and success of their hybrid cloud infrastructure.

This is where tools like Virima’s ITAM can help you easily manage your cloud infrastructure. It scans your network continuously to detect assets that might act as a vulnerability. Once it pulls all the data, it catalogs the asset in your inventory, allowing you to review its details and decide whether it is a threat or not. Moreover, it monitors your assets throughout their entire lifecycle, ensuring there are no missed patch updates or licensing needs—maintaining a compliant network at all times.

Book a demo with Virima now to understand how our product suite can help you keep your hybrid cloud infrastructure secure.