Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)Cloud Concepts, Architecture and DesignMedium

A large enterprise is considering a hybrid cloud strategy. They need to ensure seamless identity management across their on-premises Active Directory and multiple public cloud providers. Which security best practice should be prioritized to achieve this goal?

  1. ADeploying a comprehensive Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB).
  2. BEnforcing strong encryption for all data in transit.
  3. CImplementing a robust Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solution.
  4. DEstablishing a federated identity management system.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. Establishing a federated identity management system.

Federated identity management allows a single set of credentials to be used across multiple, disparate systems and providers, which is essential for seamless identity management in a hybrid cloud environment.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. A CASB provides visibility and control over cloud application usage, but doesn't directly manage identity federation.
  • B. Encryption protects data, but doesn't solve the problem of managing user identities across different platforms.
  • C. DLP focuses on preventing data exfiltration, not identity synchronization.

Federated Identity Management

A system that allows users to use a single identity across multiple, disparate applications or services from different providers, without needing to re-authenticate.

  • Enables Single Sign-On (SSO) across organizational boundaries.
  • Relies on trust relationships between identity providers and service providers.
  • Common protocols include SAML, OAuth, and OpenID Connect.

Memory trick: Federated identity is like a universal passport for all your cloud travels.

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