Understand the Objectives and the Benefits of the ISO 27017 Standardfor Cloud Service Providers

Posted: November 29, 2023 in ISO 27017 Documents, ISO/IEC 27017 Standard
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A security standard designed especially for cloud service providers is ISO 27017. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), an international body that creates and disseminates standards for a variety of goods and services, was responsible for its development. Organizations can secure their data in the cloud with the aid of ISO 27017. Access control, cryptography, environmental and physical security, information lifecycle management, and other security measures are covered.

Exactly what is included in ISO 27017? This standard has two fundamental components. The first part of the text explains how to apply 37 of the ISO 27001 standards in cloud systems. It presents seven security controls exclusively designed for cloud systems in its second section. These measures consist of:

  • Roles and responsibilities that are shared in an environment of cloud computing
  • Taking away consumer assets for cloud services
  • Distancing in online computer settings
  • Hardening of virtual machinery
  • Operational security of the administrator
  • Observation of cloud services
  • synchronization of virtual and physical network security management

Objectives of ISO 27017 Standard

So, here are the primary objectives of ISO 27017 are as follows:

  • Provide a consistent and structured approach to cloud security: The goal of ISO 27017 is to give businesses a standard framework for evaluating, implementing, and overseeing cloud security measures. It guarantees that businesses have a methodical strategy to mitigate risks unique to the cloud and safeguard their digital assets.
  • Enhance the security of cloud services: By offering a set of practices and controls specifically designed for cloud settings, the standard seeks to improve the security posture of cloud services. In order to safeguard their data and systems from potential threats and vulnerabilities, it assists companies in identifying and putting into place the necessary security measures.
  • Define roles and responsibilities: In order to ensure that all parties are aware of their responsibilities for upholding a secure cloud environment, ISO 27017 makes clear what CSPs and cloud clients are expected to do. All the important things must be mentioned in the ISO 27017 documents, so it helps to establish efficient communication and responsibility between CSPs and their clients.
  • Support compliance with regulatory requirements: Organizations can better match their cloud security strategies with industry-specific standards and applicable regulatory frameworks by utilizing ISO 27017. Organizations can achieve compliance requirements and show their dedication to information security by adopting the standard.

Key benefits of adopting ISO 27017 standard

  • Enhanced Cloud Security: In order to help enterprises, reduce the risks associated with cloud computing, ISO 27017 offers a complete set of security measures specifically designed for cloud settings. It guarantees that sufficient security measures are in place to guard against breaches, illegal access, and other security incidents involving data and systems.
  • Clear Roles and Responsibilities: The roles and obligations of the cloud customer and cloud service provider (CSP) are outlined in ISO 27017. This lucidity guarantees that all stakeholders comprehend their responsibilities in upholding a secure cloud environment and aids in establishing accountability.
  • Compliance with Regulatory Requirements: Organizations can harmonize their cloud security procedures with worldwide best practices and legal requirements by implementing ISO 27017. It supports compliance efforts with frameworks like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), HIPAA, or industry-specific requirements and aids in demonstrating due diligence.
  • Improved Customer Trust and Confidence: Organizations can convey their cloud security procedures to clients using a standard language and framework that is provided by ISO 27017. A customer’s trust and confidence in the security of the provided cloud services can be increased by proving compliance with ISO 27017.
  • Cost and Resource Efficiency: By offering an organized approach to cloud security, ISO 27017 helps enterprises make effective use of their resources. Organizations can prevent possible security events, data breaches, and related financial losses by identifying and putting in place the right measures.
  • Continuous Improvement: By highlighting the importance of routinely monitoring, reviewing, and improving cloud security policies, ISO 27017 encourages a culture of continuous development. It supports enterprises in remaining proactive and adjusting to changing risks and technical developments in the cloud environment.

Organizations can fortify their cloud security posture and lay a solid basis for safe cloud operations by comprehending the principles of ISO 27017, appreciating its significance in cloud security, and seizing its advantages.

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