Cloud Security Services

What is Cloud Security Services?

Cloud security service allows customers to access their SaaS application through their provider and allows providers to connect with their client through a protected channel without opening firewall ports.

Cloud Security Services

Cloud security services, or SECaaS (security as a service), is a cloud-based solution that provides greater security for businesses, organizations and even individuals. It’s similar in concept to software as a service and platform as a service, but deals with managed security services delivered via the cloud. In some instances, it’s lumped in with software as a service (SaaS), but in many, it’s differentiated due to the importance of security.

How Does SECaaS Work?

So, how does security as a service work? It’s actually relatively simple. In the traditional security management situation, security was provided by local appliances within the organization. This might include any of the of the following:

  • Spam filtering
  • Virus protection
  • Malware protection
  • Hacking protection
  • Web monitoring
  • Email continuity

With SECaaS, the paradigm shifts. All of the required security services can now be provided via the cloud, with no need for in-house hardware or even software in many cases. Everything is handled by the security provider through the cloud. There are numerous benefits to the SECaaS model, as well, that set it apart from the older in-house security model.

The Benefits of Cloud Security Services

SECaaS products deliver a considerable amount of value to businesses and organizations. We’ll discuss some of the most important below.

  • On Time Updates – One of the most crucial considerations with security is the application of updates and patches in a timely manner. With SECaaS, the security provider handles all the updates, freeing up the organization and its staff from this chore and ensuring that it occurs immediately.
  • Reduced IT Staff – Because the SECaaS provider handles all security tasks, organizations are able to benefit from a reduced need for IT staff. This saves money in many ways, and allows the organization to run leaner, or allow their IT professionals to focus on other important areas.
  • Customized Security – One of the most interesting advantages of security as a service is the level of customization that can be achieved. Organizations can choose the specific needs they require and opt out of solutions they don’t require.
  • Scalability – SECaaS can be scaled up or down as required, allowing businesses and organizations to change their protection quickly, and with no notice. Because all changes are handled by the cloud provider, all they need to do is make a change request.
  • Unified View – Many SECaaS providers offer their clients access to security metrics, service options and other information through a unified web browser-based interface. This provides them with access to crucial information at a glance.

When everything is said and done, SECaaS delivers significant advantages over in-house security solutions. The sheer scalability and customization alone make it an ideal option for many businesses and organizations. Couple those advantages with the cost reduction that can be achieved, as well as the fact that updates are applied immediately, continuously, and you begin to see why this segment of the industry has grown so quickly and gained such prominence in such a short time.