Cloud Security Architecture

Secure cloud architecture requires deliberate design incorporating security controls at every layer. Traditional security concepts apply in cloud environments but manifest differently, requiring architects to understand both foundational principles and cloud-specific implementation patterns.

Defense in Depth for Cloud

Cloud defense in depth organizes security controls across multiple layers, ensuring that breach of any single layer does not compromise the entire environment.

The identity and access layer forms the primary perimeter in cloud environments. Strong authentication requires multi-factor authentication universally. Least privilege access limits blast radius when credentials are compromised. Just-in-time access provisions elevated permissions only when needed. Privileged access management adds additional controls for the most sensitive operations.

The network layer implements segmentation and isolation. Virtual networks and VPCs contain workloads in separate logical environments. Network segmentation limits lateral movement between tiers. Security groups and network security groups control traffic flows. Web application firewalls protect web-facing applications. DDoS protection services mitigate volumetric attacks.

The compute layer secures the systems running workloads. Hardened images reduce attack surface before deployment. Container security addresses image vulnerabilities and runtime protections. Serverless security focuses on function permissions and dependencies. Continuous patch management addresses emerging vulnerabilities.

The data layer protects information regardless of location. Encryption at rest protects stored data. Encryption in transit protects data moving between systems. Key management through HSMs or cloud KMS services secures cryptographic material. Data loss prevention controls sensitive data exfiltration.

The application layer embeds security throughout the software lifecycle. Secure SDLC practices prevent vulnerabilities from reaching production. API security protects service interfaces. Secret management secures credentials and keys. Code scanning identifies vulnerabilities before deployment.

Zero Trust in Cloud

Zero Trust principles prescribe continuous verification regardless of network location. Never trust, always verify means every access request receives validation. Assume breach designs systems to limit damage when compromise occurs. Least privilege access minimizes what compromised credentials can access. Micro-segmentation limits lateral movement. Continuous validation ensures ongoing authorization.

Cloud Landing Zone

A Cloud Landing Zone establishes foundational infrastructure including account and subscription structure organizing workloads logically. Network topology defines connectivity patterns. Identity baselines establish authentication standards. Security baselines configure consistent controls. Logging and monitoring capture operational and security events. Guardrails and policies prevent insecure configurations.

Multi-account strategies separate environments for production, development, sandbox experimentation, security and logging services, and shared infrastructure.