Strategies for Securing Cloud

Abstract

Cloud Computing - a new way of less expensive services-based environment is becoming popular. It has proved to be the cost-effective solution to various organizations to cater for their computing needs without investing in computing infrastructure. Cloud is a major next step in this area. Cloud computing allows various tasks to be executed over a network using various services. Using Cloud computing, clients do not need to spend on hardware and expensive software(s). It allows them to buy hardware resources online, take an entire platform for software development, or set up a platform themselves, in-house. By using simple PCs and using internet connections, one can use cloud computing services provided by special providers (e.g. Google, Facebook, Amazon, Microsoft, and others). However, cloud computing is not free from issues. One of the major issues slowing cloud computing growth is security. Critical issues with the customer data and applications process may occur. This paper discusses security issues related to cloud computing and proposes necessary strategies for securing cloud that could be helpful to build faithful relationship between customer and cloud provider.