Cloud computing makes it easy for organizations to access powerful computing services at scale. By relying on servers, data storage, and networking capabilities stored at a remote location, companies can take full advantage of these resources from a distance, making it possible to build applications, crunch data, and deliver content through high-performing, off-site services. 

Organizations that take advantage of cloud computing often choose one of three cloud infrastructures: public, private, or hybrid. In public and hybrid cloud environments, some or all cloud services and infrastructure are provided by a third party, such as Amazon’s AWS or Google Cloud, and share resources between clients.

Private clouds, on the other hand, are dedicated cloud environments operated at the local level. Often used by large organizations that have a need for strong security or significant computing resources, private clouds can provide a high degree of flexibility, resource availability, and regulatory compliance. 

Because public cloud environments rely on the security measures put in place by third-party cloud providers, hybrid and private cloud infrastructures must remain vigilant to ward off potential threats. 

Here are three common areas for security vulnerabilities in a private cloud and the best tools to address them: 

• Data breaches. 

Many of the most expensive, dangerous, and headline-grabbing cloud security incidents revolve around data breaches. Solutions like IBM’s Security Guardian Vulnerability Assessment can scan local data infrastructures — such as databases, warehouses, and other big data environments — to identify potential vulnerabilities. By producing a full report on security gaps that hackers could exploit, organizations relying on private clouds can identify and resolve unpatched software, misconfigured privileges, or other unusual activities. 

• User authentication and verification. 

Proper access management is essential to ensuring that users only have access to authorized services throughout the private cloud. Tools such as Okta, a single-sign-on user identity platform, can protect against cloud security vulnerabilities by granting access to users whose identities have been securely identified. Through centralized access management and multi-factor authentication, private clouds can eliminate the need for users to manage multiple passwords while ensuring that unauthorized users don’t have access to sensitive applications or data.

• Malware. 

Viruses, ransomware, and other types of malware remain major threats for any type of private cloud infrastructure. Security solutions such as McAfee Advanced Threat Defense provide proactive protection against malware across physical and virtual devices. Fully integrating with email servers and able to detect hidden threats throughout a wide range of applications and operating systems, comprehensive malware security can help keep critical systems and data protected from zero-day threats and ransomware.