Providing a Healthy Balance

Providing a Healthy Balance

Performance and security can stand toe-to-toe in cloud applications

Healthy BalanceDatacenter traffic is predicted to triple by 2017 with the cloud as the biggest traffic source, according to a recent Cisco Global Cloud Index study. Cloud traffic grew from 46 percent of total datacenter traffic in 2012 and will continue until it reaches 69 percent by 2017, accounting for more than two-thirds of all datacenter traffic.

As cloud computing technologies turn mainstream, businesses of all sizes are undergoing a migration process. When choosing a cloud model, small- and medium-sized businesses tend to prefer a public cloud where resources are shared for a lower total cost of ownership; however, businesses that deal with critical information cannot compromise on data integrity and security. Additionally, there are certain applications that need more control over the data being processed.

It is an undisputable fact that the public cloud offers highlyscalable, IT solutions that bring agility to business processes at reduced costs, even though multi-tenancy, RDP vulnerabilities, BYOD, data encryption, data retention and compliancy issues are major considerations that make CIOs hesitate before committing to the public cloud.

This is where the private cloud comes into play.

Shifting to Private Cloud Computing

While private cloud design varies from company to company, one common point is the advantage of resource availability for increased performance while maintaining the security of the networks.

Consider these key drivers behind the shift to private cloud computing:

Enhanced data integrity and security. In a private cloud, there is greater control over the data management system, while data managed through processes is securely stored behind a firewall in a company’s datacenter. Private cloud networks come with enhanced security solutions that are augmented by network security.

Data is securely encrypted and transmitted through a VPN tunnel so that unauthorized people cannot access it. Moreover, data retention issues are prevented as the use of high-standard data sanitization methods completely erases data when it’s no longer needed.

Greater process visibility and control. Cloud computing technology offers highend virtualization tools to optimally use resources. With private cloud computing technology, there is a greater level of transparency when it comes to networking solutions.

Customizing the functionality of the virtualization server enforces security at network level or virtual machine level, and customizes virtual machines and application delivery systems to meet business requirements. Furthermore, the hypervisor interface can be used to make changes to virtual server settings, while in a public cloud, options are much more limited. Compliancy factors. As the data processed within the networks is stored in the datacenter, compliancy issues are resolved. The private cloud overcomes any hurdles relative to the various regulations on the storage of data in different locations. Moreover, the datacenter gains additional control over the data being processed.

Private Cloud Challenges

While companies initially started with public clouds, they are rapidly moving toward the private cloud due to its personalized optimization of resources and security. However, there are certain challenges associated with the private cloud.

Private cloud implementation requires a larger investment. Though the cloud provider offers the infrastructure, new software and hardware needs to be purchased.

Additionally, traditional business processes might not suit the private cloud setup, so new processes need to be established and that requires expertise and knowledge of the technology. Likewise, understanding how the new platform is created and what security measures are enforced is key. And, the infrastructure will still need to be managed to some extent, requiring more human resources, as well.

Using the Private Cloud for Virtualization

While private cloud computing provides efficient, scalable and reliable systems, its full potential lies in the virtualization of applications, desktops, files and folders that can be delivered to various devices.

The goal of the private cloud model is to allow an administrator to manage their technology infrastructure from a single point and assign resources as needed. Owning and managing a private infrastructure may be less cost-effective for a business, but it increases the organization’s ability to manage and protect data. This is especially important for businesses that have strict compliance regulations.

The 12-Step Private Cloud Computing comparison chart above clearly shows the advantages of private cloud computing over both public cloud and local computing.

Hybrid Cloud Computing

In practice, most businesses are using a hybrid cloud solution. The reason is obvious. In the initial days of cloud computing technology, enterprises used public clouds extensively for VDI, RDP and BYOD requirements; however, over the last few years, security issues, operational challenges and data compliancy issues have become a growing concern. This is why businesses started shifting to the private cloud. While the private cloud offered more control and visibility over business processes, huge investments and infrastructure management still remained a concern.

With shrinking IT budgets and rising business demands, companies are looking for an intermediate model of cloud computing technology. The hybrid cloud computing solution rightly fits into this space.

Certain applications require more control over data management solutions, while other applications do not demand such a high level of protection. By integrating the public cloud with the private cloud, businesses get the flexibility to isolate sensitive data while still benefitting from the many advantages offered by the cloud.

Hybrid cloud technologies are still developing at a rapid pace, but one of the biggest challenges posed is the dependency on IT infrastructure. With complex networking solutions running in an environment, both private and public clouds need to be efficiently managed. Choosing the right provider for cloud computing solutions can prevent outages and improve redundancy issues, while offering the highest performance.

The growth in cloud traffic is accelerating, and CIOs need to have a clear strategy to optimize business advantage. Be it a public, private or hybrid cloud, choosing the right model depends on the nature of the business environment.

This article originally appeared in the May 2014 issue of Security Today.

Featured

  • AI to Help Resolve Non-Emergency Calls Across Utah and Decrease 911 Caller Wait Times

    The Utah Communications Authority (UCA), which oversees the state’s next generation 911 technology services, recently announced that public safety answering points (PSAPs) throughout the state plan to implement Motorola Solutions’ Virtual Response technology to automate the receipt and resolution of 10-digit non-emergency line calls in Utah with the help of AI. Read Now

  • Report Reveals Local Governments Face Surge in Ransomware Attacks with Minimal Resources

    KnowBe4, the cybersecurity platform that comprehensively addresses human risk management, recently released new research highlighting the critical cybersecurity challenges facing state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments. The report details how government organizations have become prime targets for cybercriminals while simultaneously facing severe resource constraints. Read Now

  • Video Surveillance Trends to Watch

    With more organizations adding newer capabilities to their surveillance systems, it’s always important to remember the “basics” of system configuration and deployment, as well as the topline benefits of continually emerging technologies like AI and the cloud. Read Now

  • New Report Reveals Top Trends Transforming Access Controller Technology

    Mercury Security, a provider in access control hardware and open platform solutions, has published its Trends in Access Controllers Report, based on a survey of over 450 security professionals across North America and Europe. The findings highlight the controller’s vital role in a physical access control system (PACS), where the device not only enforces access policies but also connects with readers to verify user credentials—ranging from ID badges to biometrics and mobile identities. With 72% of respondents identifying the controller as a critical or important factor in PACS design, the report underscores how the choice of controller platform has become a strategic decision for today’s security leaders. Read Now

  • Overwhelming Majority of CISOs Anticipate Surge in Cyber Attacks Over the Next Three Years

    An overwhelming 98% of chief information security officers (CISOs) expect a surge in cyber attacks over the next three years as organizations face an increasingly complex and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven digital threat landscape. This is according to new research conducted among 300 CISOs, chief information officers (CIOs), and senior IT professionals by CSC1, the leading provider of enterprise-class domain and domain name system (DNS) security. Read Now

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • Mobile Safe Shield

    Mobile Safe Shield

    SafeWood Designs, Inc., a manufacturer of patented bullet resistant products, is excited to announce the launch of the Mobile Safe Shield. The Mobile Safe Shield is a moveable bullet resistant shield that provides protection in the event of an assailant and supplies cover in the event of an active shooter. With a heavy-duty steel frame, quality castor wheels, and bullet resistant core, the Mobile Safe Shield is a perfect addition to any guard station, security desks, courthouses, police stations, schools, office spaces and more. The Mobile Safe Shield is incredibly customizable. Bullet resistant materials are available in UL 752 Levels 1 through 8 and include glass, white board, tack board, veneer, and plastic laminate. Flexibility in bullet resistant materials allows for the Mobile Safe Shield to blend more with current interior décor for a seamless design aesthetic. Optional custom paint colors are also available for the steel frame.