Certified secure cloud software offers an array of security measures to protect the applications and infrastructure stored in the cloud of a business. This includes authentication for users, control of devices, data access control, and regulatory compliance support. Cloud security typically comes with encryption. This can render data unintelligible even when it is intercepted by unauthorised personnel.

If a cloud service isn’t able to provide adequate security it can result in unauthorized access, data breaches, and downtime. A poorly designed backup strategy can compound the risks, while limited vendor support can hamper the response to incidents and recovery efforts. To mitigate the risks associated with inadequate cloud provider security, it is important to spot vulnerabilities and develop a strong security strategy.

Certain certifications can assist professionals develop the skills needed to work in and secure cloud environments. Some are vendor-neutral, and others are more in-depth with the nuances of a particular cloud environment. For instance here the CISSP certification can help build an extensive base of knowledge about cloud security while providing a solid foundation for future professional development.

Other credentials are more suitable for beginners and can complement experience gained at work. For example, CompTIA’s Cloud+ certification covers access control and security solution configuration in a cloud environment. IBM’s Cloud Security Engineer Specialty is another option for future cybersecurity professionals looking to expand their security and IT skills with a particular focus on cloud. This credential is designed to teach cloud security professionals how to keep an organization’s security posture in good shape as well as investigate and respond to security incidents, and then implement best practices.