CEH v13 Module 19 – Cloud Computing

Summary

This video covers C Version 13, Module 19, focusing on cloud computing concepts essential for the C exam. The instructor explains core cloud service models—Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS)—and deployment models like public, private, hybrid, community, and multi-cloud. Key security principles, including the shared responsibility model, cloud access security brokers, zero trust architecture, encryption, identity and access management, and compliance standards (ISO, SOC 2, FedRAMP, GDPR, HIPAA) are highlighted. The video emphasizes understanding generic cloud concepts, responsibilities, and compliance requirements rather than provider-specific details, offering practical study tips and resources for exam preparation.

Takeaways

• 😀 The C version 13 Module 19 exam focuses on generic cloud computing concepts, not specific cloud providers.
• 😀 Key cloud service models to know: IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), SaaS (Software as a Service); CaaS and FaaS are also mentioned but less critical.
• 😀 Deployment models include public, private, hybrid, community, and multi-cloud, each with distinct use cases.
• 😀 Understand the Shared Responsibility Model: the cloud provider manages infrastructure while the user manages their own instances and updates.
• 😀 Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) tools provide visibility and control over cloud usage and enforce security policies.
• 😀 Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) continuously monitors cloud environments for misconfigurations, compliance violations, and risks.
• 😀 Zero Trust Architecture requires verification for every access request; no user or device is automatically trusted.
• 😀 Data residency and data sovereignty are crucial; organizations must choose cloud regions considering legal and geopolitical implications.
• 😀 Key security controls include encryption (in transit and at rest), IAM & role-based access control, multi-factor authentication, key management, logging, monitoring, and network security groups.
• 😀 Compliance standards to know: ISO 27017, ISO 27018, SOC 2, FedRAMP, GDPR, HIPAA; understand which apply to specific industries.
• 😀 Focus on understanding concepts rather than memorizing provider-specific details, and practice with available questionnaires and labs.

Q & A

What are the main service models in cloud computing that you need to know for the C exam?

The main service models are Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). These models define different levels of cloud service management and usage.

What is the difference between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS?

IaaS provides virtualized computing resources; PaaS delivers a platform for developing and running applications without managing infrastructure; SaaS offers fully functional software accessible online, like Gmail or Office 365.

What are the primary cloud deployment models?

The primary deployment models are Public Cloud, Private Cloud, Hybrid Cloud, Community Cloud, and Multicloud. Each differs in how resources are shared, managed, and secured.

Explain the Shared Responsibility Model in cloud security.

In the Shared Responsibility Model, the cloud provider is responsible for infrastructure, physical security, and data center maintenance, while the user is responsible for managing their virtual machines, applications, and data security.

What is a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) and its purpose?

A CASB is a security tool placed between cloud consumers and providers to enforce security policies, monitor usage, and protect data. It provides visibility and control over cloud users.

What is Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) and why is it important?

CSPM involves tools and processes that continuously monitor cloud environments for misconfigurations, compliance violations, and security risks. It ensures ongoing security and compliance.

Describe Zero Trust Architecture in the context of cloud security.

Zero Trust Architecture is a security model where no user or device is automatically trusted. Verification is required for every access request to improve security in cloud environments.

Why are data residency and data sovereignty important in cloud computing?

Data residency and sovereignty are important because cloud data must comply with local regulations and organizational policies regarding where data can be stored, often for legal or security reasons.

What are some key cloud security controls to be aware of for the exam?

Key controls include encryption (in transit and at rest), identity and access management (IAM), multifactor authentication, key management services (KMS), logging and monitoring, and network security groups.

Which compliance standards are most relevant to cloud computing?

Relevant standards include ISO 27017 (cloud security), ISO 27018 (PII protection), SOC 2 (security and privacy), FedRAMP (US government), GDPR (data privacy in Europe), and HIPAA (healthcare data).

Do you need to memorize specific implementations of cloud services from AWS, Azure, or Google for the exam?

No. You only need to understand generic cloud concepts and models that apply across all cloud providers, rather than provider-specific implementations.

What is the purpose of Key Management Services (KMS) in cloud security?

KMS manages cryptographic keys, including their creation, storage, rotation, and access control, to protect encryption keys from compromise and ensure secure key management.