Cloud Shared Responsibility: Protecting Data in the Cloud

In cloud computing, clarity is power. That’s why splitting responsibilities between subscribers and service providers is essential to ensure efficiency and security. This separation minimizes risks like fraud, errors, and misuse while enhancing the detection of security breaches and control failures.

The three primary cloud service models—Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS)—each come with unique responsibilities. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when adopting or managing cloud services.

• IaaS: Subscribers manage applications, data, runtime, middleware, and operating systems. Providers handle virtualization, servers, storage, and networking.
• PaaS: Providers take over the operating system and runtime, leaving data and applications under the subscriber’s control.
• SaaS: Service providers manage almost everything, while subscribers handle only the applications they use.

Cloud Deployment Models

Choosing the right cloud deployment model isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—it depends on factors like security needs, service sharing, customization, and where the services are hosted. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide.

1. The Public Cloud

In this model, services like servers, applications, and storage are available to the public online. Providers handle maintenance and IT resources, so you don’t have to. Popular examples include AWS (EC2), Google App Engine, and Azure.

Why You’ll Love It (Advantages):

• Super simple and efficient.
• Cost-effective—pay only for what you use.
• No downtime worries (e.g., during server crashes).
• Zero maintenance—it’s all off-site.
• No long-term contracts—flexibility is key.

What to Watch Out For (Disadvantages):

• Security can’t be guaranteed (third-party control).
• Limited control over infrastructure.
• Performance depends on your internet speed.

The public cloud is perfect if you’re looking for simplicity, scalability, and low costs, but it’s not ideal if you need total control or top-tier security.

2. Private Cloud: Total Control, Maximum Security

A private cloud, also called a corporate or internal cloud, is tailored for a single organization. Deployed within a secure firewall, this model offers unmatched control and enhanced security for companies looking to manage sensitive data. Big players like BMC Software, VMware vRealize Suite, and SAP Cloud Platform are known for supporting private cloud setups.

Why Go Private? (Advantages):

• Dedicated exclusively to your organization.
• Manage resources your way.
• High-speed data transfers within your secure perimeter.
• Hardware, network, and storage designed to fit your needs.
• Easily aligned with standards like HIPAA, PCI DSS, and Sarbanes-Oxley.

Potential Challenges (Disadvantages):

• Premium benefits come with a hefty price tag.
• On-site management requires dedicated effort and expertise.

If you’re looking for control and security over cost savings, the private cloud is your go-to option.

3. Community Cloud: Shared Infrastructure, Shared Benefits

A community cloud is a shared infrastructure designed for organizations with common goals, such as regulatory compliance, security, and performance. It’s ideal for groups working within the same jurisdiction or needing similar standards. Managed either by the participating organizations or third-party providers (e.g., Cisco Cloud Solutions, Salesforce Health Cloud), this model balances cost and collaboration.

Why It Works (Advantages):

• Cheaper than a private cloud.
• Adapts to the needs of the entire community.
• Easily meets legal and security requirements.
• Grows with your needs.
• Seamless access to a shared pool of resources.

What to Consider (Disadvantages):

• Multiple users vying for shared resources.
• Hard to predict resource demands accurately.
• Lacks a clear legal entity for accountability.

4. Hybrid Cloud: The Best of Both Worlds

A hybrid cloud combines two or more cloud environments (public, private, or community), creating a flexible infrastructure that blends scalability with security. It’s like having the power of multiple deployment models tailored to your organization’s needs. For instance, critical tasks can run on a private cloud, while less sensitive operations leverage the public cloud. Providers like Azure, Zymr, and Logicalis make this seamless.

Why Go Hybrid? (Advantages):

• Combines the strengths of public and private clouds.
• Tailor expenses by balancing secure private and affordable public resources.
• Leverages private cloud safeguards for critical operations.
• Mix and match resources to fit specific requirements.

What to Watch Out For (Disadvantages):

• Managing communication across multiple cloud types can lead to conflicts.

For organizations looking for a balance of cost, performance, and security, the hybrid cloud is a smart and adaptable choice.

5. Multi-Cloud: Flexibility Without Limits

A multi-cloud approach uses multiple cloud providers to distribute workloads across different environments. Think of it as a dynamic system tailored to maximize reliability, flexibility, and performance. With providers like Microsoft Azure Arc and Google Cloud Anthos, businesses can achieve their goals without depending on a single vendor.

Why Choose Multi-Cloud? (Advantages):

• Reduced latency and downtime risks.
• Adapt to specific business needs with ease.
• Balance performance and budgets.
• Mitigates distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks.
• Access more computing power and storage as needed.
• Maintain independence and avoid reliance on one provider.

The Catch (Disadvantages): While there aren’t specifics here, potential challenges could include increased complexity in management and compliance requirements across providers.

Multi-cloud environments are a game-changer for businesses seeking to optimize performance and reduce risks while scaling effectively.

6. Distributed Cloud: Bringing the Cloud Closer

A distributed cloud spreads public or private cloud resources across multiple geographic locations; all managed from a central control plane. This model provides services closer to end-users while maintaining centralized governance. With support for edge computing and compliance needs, it’s ideal for applications like AI, machine learning, and IoT. Examples include Google Distributed Cloud and Cloudflare CDN.

Why It’s a Win (Advantages):

• Reduced latency with localized access.
• Centralized management ensures smooth operations.
• Supports edge computing and stringent data security.

Considerations (Disadvantages):

• Security vulnerabilities may arise.
• Higher deployment costs due to complex infrastructure.
• Limited software assistance and troubleshooting challenges.

7. Poly Cloud: Choose What Works Best

A poly cloud lets businesses combine multiple cloud services from different providers, each specialized for unique tasks. Unlike multi-cloud, it’s designed to provide access to specific features based on business needs. This approach optimizes AI, ML, and ROI-focused infrastructure. Providers like AWS and Google Cloud are popular in this model.

What Makes It Shine (Advantages):

• High Flexibility: Custom solutions for various tasks.
• Environmental Choice: Pick the right tool for the job.
• ROI Optimization: Get the best value for your investment.

Challenges (Disadvantages):

• Time-intensive setup and R&D costs.
• Lack of standardized tools and models.
• Best suited for larger enterprises due to cost.

NIST Cloud Deployment Reference Architecture: A Unified Framework

The NIST Cloud Deployment Reference Architecture serves as a comprehensive framework for understanding the roles, responsibilities, and functions of cloud computing. It breaks down the cloud ecosystem into five primary actors, ensuring clarity and governance for all interactions within cloud environments. Here’s a closer look at each role:

1. Cloud Consumer: A cloud consumer is an individual or organization that uses cloud services from a provider. They interact with the service catalog, request resources, and manage their usage.

Services Available:

• SaaS (Software as a Service): Solutions like CRM, ERP, and productivity apps.
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Tools for database management, application development, and integration.
• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Storage, virtual machines, and network management.

2. Cloud Provider: The provider is responsible for delivering cloud services and managing the infrastructure. They ensure services like IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS are operational, secure, and scalable. Key Duties:

• Resource management.
• Security and availability of services.
• Supporting scalability and reliability.

3. Cloud Carrier: Acts as the intermediary that facilitates connectivity and transport between the provider and consumer. Think of it as the internet or telecom infrastructure ensuring data reaches its destination.

Role:

• Maintain secure communication.
• Ensure high-speed and low-latency connections.

4. Cloud Auditor: The auditor is an independent party that reviews cloud systems to ensure they comply with industry standards and organizational policies.

Functions:

• Perform security and privacy audits.
• Validate compliance with regulatory requirements like GDPR or HIPAA.
• Assess performance and operational risks.

5. Cloud Broker: A broker simplifies cloud service management for consumers. They help select services, manage usage, and optimize costs by aggregating or arbitrating cloud services from multiple providers.

Key Functions:

• Service Intermediation: Add value by offering enhanced capabilities.
• Service Aggregation: Combine multiple services into one unified solution.
• Service Arbitrage: Select the best services based on specific needs.

The NIST framework provides a standardized approach to cloud management, ensuring seamless interactions and governance. It helps organizations maximize efficiency, maintain compliance, and align cloud strategies with business goals.

Cloud Storage Architecture: Scalable and Reliable Data Management

Cloud storage is a modern solution for storing digital data, utilizing distributed servers managed by hosting companies. Organizations purchase storage capacity to manage their files, applications, or organizational data efficiently.

Key Features of Cloud Storage Architecture:

• Logical Storage Pools: Data is stored in virtualized “pools,” making it easier to scale and manage.
• Distributed Servers: Physical data storage is spread across multiple servers for high availability.
• Provider Responsibility: Cloud providers handle everything from data management to accessibility.

Three Layers of Cloud Storage

• Front-End: Acts as the user interface. It enables users to access and manage data through APIs or cloud-based applications.
• Middleware: Focuses on data management, including replication, deduplication, and ensuring seamless access across systems.
• Back-End: The hardware layer, consisting of servers and storage devices, where data is physically stored.

Benefits of Cloud Storage

• Scalability: Resources can be expanded or reduced based on demand.
• Redundancy: Ensures data availability through replication and fault tolerance.
• Durability: High reliability with distributed and replicated systems.
• Accessibility: APIs provide integration for applications and seamless user access.

Popular Cloud Storage Solutions: Leading providers like Amazon S3, Microsoft Azure Storage, and Oracle Cloud Storage offer advanced storage capabilities, including object storage and file-level access.

Master CEH with InfosecTrain

InfosecTrain’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) training provides you with the critical knowledge and hands-on experience to master the nuances of cloud security. Understanding cloud deployment models, storage architecture, and industry-standard frameworks like NIST is a cornerstone of ethical hacking in today’s cloud-dependent world. InfosecTrain ensures you gain expertise in identifying vulnerabilities, securing cloud environments, and mitigating risks—skills that align perfectly with the content discussed here.

Transform your career with InfosecTrain’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) training—the ultimate guide to mastering cloud security and ethical hacking. From protecting multi-cloud environments to implementing NIST frameworks, this course has everything you need to become an expert.

TRAINING CALENDAR of Upcoming Batches For CEH v13

Start Date	End Date	Start - End Time	Batch Type	Training Mode	Batch Status
06-Dec-2025	11-Jan-2026	09:00 - 13:00 IST	Weekend	Online	[ Open ]	Enroll Now
13-Dec-2025	18-Jan-2026	19:00 - 23:00 IST	Weekend	Online	[ Open ]	Enroll Now
03-Jan-2026	08-Feb-2026	19:00 - 23:00 IST	Weekend	Online	[ Open ]	Enroll Now
17-Jan-2026	01-Mar-2026	09:00 - 13:00 IST	Weekend	Online	[ Open ]	Enroll Now
07-Feb-2026	15-Mar-2026	19:00 - 23:00 IST	Weekend	Online	[ Open ]	Enroll Now