Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) vs Cloud Governance
Cloud computing is rapidly changing the IT landscape, and as a result, companies are now facing new challenges when it comes to security and compliance. Two popular solutions to address these challenges are Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and Cloud Governance. While both of these approaches aim to secure cloud data, they are distinct concepts that have their own benefits and limitations.
What is Cloud Governance?
Cloud Governance is a set of policies, procedures and tools to ensure that a company's cloud infrastructure is secure and compliant. It involves creating a framework for managing and monitoring the use of cloud services and the data stored in them. Cloud Governance is often used in regulated industries, such as healthcare or finance, to ensure compliance with industry regulations and prevent data breaches.
What are Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB)?
CASBs are security solutions that sit between the cloud provider and a company's infrastructure. They monitor and control access to cloud applications and data, and can provide visibility into who is accessing the data, from where, and for what purpose. CASBs can also enforce policies to prevent data leakage and unauthorized access.
Benefits of CASB
CASBs offer several benefits, including:
- Protection against data breaches and malware
- Visibility into cloud usage and user behavior
- Control over access to cloud data
- Compliance with industry regulations
- Flexibility to add or remove cloud services as needed
Limitations of CASB
Despite its benefits, CASBs have some limitations, including:
- Limited ability to monitor data that has been downloaded or shared outside of the cloud
- Dependence on the cloud provider's APIs and security controls
- Potential latency and impact on user productivity
- Cost of deployment and maintenance
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) vs Cloud Governance
While there is some overlap between CASB and Cloud Governance, they are fundamentally different approaches to cloud security. Below are the main differences:
| CASB | Cloud Governance |
|---|---|
| Monitors and enforces access to cloud data | Focuses on creating a framework for managing and monitoring cloud services and data |
| Offers visibility into cloud usage and user behavior | Does not offer visibility but instead sets rules and policies for cloud usage |
| Provides protection against data breaches and malware | Does not provide direct protection but instead ensures compliance and risk mitigation |
| Limited ability to monitor data that has been downloaded or shared outside of the cloud | Ensures data governance throughout its lifecycle, from creation to disposition |
| Dependence on the cloud provider's APIs and security controls | Provides a framework to control cloud usage regardless of the cloud provider |
| Potential latency and impact on user productivity | Can be implemented without impacting user productivity |
| Cost of deployment and maintenance | Cost-effective and scalable |
Conclusion
Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) and Cloud Governance are two distinct but related approaches to cloud security. While both have their own benefits and limitations, they can be used together to provide a comprehensive security solution for cloud data. Companies should carefully evaluate their needs and goals before deciding which approach or combination of approaches to implement.