The dilemma of opting for SaaS or Cloud Hosted Security Operations?

#cloudsecurity #saas

How to Simplify the dilemma of choosing SaaS vs Cloud Hosted SecOps?

Selecting Security Operations solutions for customers by Cloud and SaaS service providers has always been complicated. The transition from legacy to cloud infrastructure and the ever-changing threat landscape has made the problem of security operations a massive undertaking. The best way to address this problem is to have a solution with a single pane of view using advanced SaaS-based SecOps. The main reason to opt for SaaS is to have an interface between the providers and the end user. However, SaaS is not the be-all-end-all solution. While it might be the better option for your business, there might be a better option for you. In this article, we will focus on the merits and demerits of each service and see if SaaS or cloud-hosted services are the best for an organization.

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What is SAAS:

SaaS is an acronym for Software as a Service. SaaS is a software delivery model in which a solution provider builds applications on cloud infrastructure and makes them available to customers via the internet. This is a type of service that is delivered online and is not delivered as a physical product.

What is Cloud Hosting:

Cloud hosting is an acronym for Cloud Hosted Security Operations. This is a type of service that is delivered online and can be accessed from anywhere and provides managing control to the subscriber as they are responsible for their applications, data, runtime, middleware, and operating system.

One of the most common issues that people face when considering SaaS or Cloud Hosted Security Operations is the cost involved. The truth is that there is a wide range of costs for both types of services. However, there are ways to save money. You should consider the following factors when deciding between SaaS or Cloud Hosted Security Operations:

The monthly fee for SaaS is usually much lower than Cloud Hosted Security Operations. However, for this lower cost, you will be required to use the service for longer.

SaaS-based Security Operations:

·???????The SaaS will usually provide you with more features and a higher level of service.

·???????A SaaS will usually have a higher level of security.

·???????The SaaS will have a higher level of support.

Cloud Hosted Security Operations:

·???????The monthly fee for Cloud Hosted Security Operations is usually much higher than for SaaS.

·???????However, for this higher cost, you will be able to use the service for a shorter period.

·???????The Cloud Hosted Security Operations will usually provide you with fewer features and a lower level of service.

Cloud Hosted Security. As even after using the cloud the risk and responsibilities remain with organizations and are not transferred.

?In the case of SaaS, you eliminate a lot of operational activities and transfer risks associated with the same.

SaaS Benefits

·???????Accessibility: 24/7 Over a browser at any time anywhere from any device.

·???????Scalability: Can meet the rapid growth and reduction of utilization.

·???????Operational Freedom: Minimal implementation period, No installation and maintenance.

·???????Cost Effective: No capital investment, pay as you go.

·???????Enhanced Security: SAAS vendors invest heavily in security and technology enhancements.

·???????Visibility: The ability to provide 24/7 monitoring

·???????Data Security: SAAS solutions offer comprehensive data backup available on demand.

·???????The ability to provide the same level of monitoring services to multiple:

Users

Locations

Platforms

Devices

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SaaS Disadvantages

The disadvantages of SaaS are that it is harder to manage and if you don't know what you are doing, it can be more expensive than a cloud service. The disadvantages of Cloud Hosted Security Operations are that it is harder to manage and if you don't know what you are doing, it can be more expensive than a SaaS service.

·???????Negligible Control:? Dependent upon the vendor’s capabilities

·???????Limited Customization:?SAAS applications are developed considering one size fits all.

·???????Stability:?SaaS solutions are dependent on external factors.

·???????Security Risks:?Identity Theft, No control over data and its location

·???????Lack of Transparency:

·???????Increased Dependency:

·???????Subscriptions-based payment:

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?Cloud Hosted Security Operations Benefits

Cloud-hosted security operations are a way to provide security without the need for heavy upfront costs. Cloud-hosted security operations have a few advantages over traditional security operations. For instance, cloud-hosted security operations are often more affordable and easier to manage. Cloud-hosted security operations have a few disadvantages, such as a lack of depth in the experience and a lack of personal support. However, cloud-hosted security operations are a great option for those who are on a budget. Some advantages of Cloud Hosting:

·???????Scalability and Flexibility

·???????Accessibility

·???????Easy to Implement

·???????Cost Effective

·???????Backup and Disaster Recovery

·???????Better Control

·???????Data Security

Cloud-Hosted Security Operation Disadvantages:

?However, these are true for any kind of hosting; they are not unique to the cloud. Some disadvantages to using the cloud for security operations are.

·???????Reliance on the Internet Service Providers

·???????Bandwidth Issue

·???????Limited Control

·???????Privacy Regulations

·???????Data Leakage/Theft/Loss

·???????Account or Service Hijacking

·???????Insecure interfaces and APIs

·???????Denial of Service Attacks

·???????Technology vulnerabilities in a shared environment

Choosing the right solution:

It is highly imperative to take a decision and opt for Cloud Hosting or SAAS considering the parameters in mind. There is no thumb rule or say one size fits all solutions, and the solution must be chosen considering the various factors and suitability in an individual organization.

·???????SaaS For organizations where the needs and traffic are volatile and rapidly changing (growing and shrinking) SaaS solutions are beneficial. Startups and small businesses will find SaaS handy when they don’t have the time, capital, or expertise to build their own applications or host applications on-premises. Enterprises find this useful for short-term needs and projects.

·???????Organizations that want to leverage the capabilities of the cloud and have control of their environment find Cloud hosted Security operations beneficial. Maintaining on-premises IT Security infrastructure can be both costly and labor-intensive.