Cloud security focuses on the policies, controls, technologies, and best practices required to protect cloud-based systems and data. This domain encompasses a wide range of security considerations, from securing the underlying infrastructure and networks to protecting applications, data, and user access within public, private, and hybrid cloud environments. It involves managing security risks, ensuring compliance with regulations, and implementing robust identity and access management. The unique characteristics of cloud computing, such as shared responsibility models, dynamic resource provisioning, and API-driven operations, necessitate specialized security approaches distinct from traditional on-premises security.
This domain covers the security aspects of cloud computing platforms (like AWS, Azure, GCP), services (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), and workloads deployed within them. It includes securing cloud infrastructure, virtual networks, data storage, containerized and serverless applications, and managing identities and access. It is distinct from general IT security by its focus on cloud-specific constructs and the shared responsibility model. It is also differentiated from general cloud computing domains by its primary focus on security concerns, rather than general administration or development.