Cloud Computing Security – Public vs. Private
Posted by Rick Russo on Thu, Feb 02, 2012 @ 12:08 PM
Security is one of the most important aspects to think about when considering cloud computing solutions for your business. The questions in many people’s minds are, “How secure is the cloud?” and “Is my data safe in the cloud?” 
One of the concerns that you may find voiced through various articles on the Web revolves around cloud security, or the assumed lack of cloud security. The misperception that many business owners and IT professionals have is that cloud solutions are not as secure as on premise solutions which can bring hesitance to anyone looking to adopt this technology.
One of the factors that plays a major role in cloud security is being knowledgeable of cloud deployment models. Today, we will look at Public vs. Private Cloud and the differences between the two.
What is a Public Cloud?
As defined by TechTarget, a Public cloud is one based on the standard cloud computing model, in which a service provider makes resources, such as applications and storage, available to the general public over the Internet. Public cloud services may be free or offered on a pay-per-usage model.
The main benefits of using a Public Cloud service are:
- Easy and inexpensive set-up because hardware, application and bandwidth costs are covered by the provider
- Scalability to meet needs
- No wasted resources because you pay for what you use
The main concerns or challenges of Public Cloud are:
- Data security and privacy
- Provider is managing your firewall
- Resource allocation
- Provider is managing your information
- Lack of control
- Compliance
- Provider is assuming responsibility of your information
What is a Private Cloud?
As defined by TechTarget, a Private cloud (also called internal cloud or corporate cloud) is a marketing term for a proprietary computing architecture that provides hosted services to a limited number of people behind a firewall.
Marketing media that uses the words "private cloud" is designed to appeal to an organization that needs or wants more control over their data than they can get by using a third-party hosted service.
The main benefits of using a Private Cloud:
- Control over Resource Allocation
- High level of Security
- Compliance
- You have control and are assuming responsibility of your information
Additional Alternatives to Public & Private Cloud
And, in case you’re left wondering if Public and Private Cloud are your only options, there are some additional alternatives such as Community Cloud and Hybrid Cloud. A Community Cloud shares infrastructure between several organizations from a specific community with common concerns (security, compliance, jurisdiction, etc.), whether managed internally or by a third-party and hosted internally or externally. The costs are spread over fewer users than a Public Cloud (but more than a Private Cloud), so only some of the cost savings potential of cloud computing are realized.
A Hybrid Cloud is a composition of two or more clouds (Private, Community, or Public) that remain unique entities but are bound together, offering the benefits of multiple deployment models. It can also be defined as multiple cloud systems that are connected in a way that allows programs and data to be moved easily from one deployment system to another.
Next Steps: Wading Through the Choices
If you’re considering ERP software for your business, chances are you’re being bombarded with choices. As you consider your options, one of the most important decisions you’ll need to make is whether to select a cloud ERP solution or one that’s installed locally. Not only can online ERP provide better performance and greater accessibility, but better security as well. Cloud ERP providers like NetSuite make securing their systems a top priority by providing strong, industry standard data security certifications such as compliance with PCI DSS and SAS 70 standards.
Interested in exploring cloud ERP solutions further? Download “8 Questions You Should Always Ask Your Cloud Vendor” today.
