Securing the Cloud #11

Welcome to the 11th edition of "Securing the Cloud!" We are a day late, but we’ve put together some good stuff this week. As we continue our journey in cloud security, we'll kick things off by delving into the AWS Well-Architected Framework, focusing on the crucial aspect of Infrastructure Protection. Then, we're going to talk about careers and how we can apply Amazon's leadership principle "Learn and Be Curious" to ourselves and it will make us better employees. We'll touch on that more later on. Finally, for those of you who love to learn on the go, I'll share a curated list of podcasts that are perfect for learning more about cloud networking and security. So, without further ado, let's dive into this week's edition!

Cloud Networking and Security Concepts and Best Practices

Ok, so today, I want to talk about the Security Pillar of the AWS Well Architected Framework. There’s a lot of information in there but I’m going to focus on the Infrastructure Protection section. As you read through this section in the document, you start to see some key takeaways:

• Create layered network architecture with traffic control at all layers
• Automate network protection and implement inspection
• Perform vulnerability management and reduce attack surface on compute
• Use managed services and automate compute protection
• and several more..

Why give attention in these areas? Well, we all know that security threats are increasing. Both the volume and sophistication of cyber threats is increasing globally. Infrastructure protections help mitigate risks from malware, ransomware, data breaches, DDoS attacks and more. The key is starting with business needs, then mapping traffic flows and designing segmented network layers with appropriate controls at each layer following security best practices. Automating protections is highly recommended. To implement some of these controls and protections, what AWS services, features or partners could we leverage? I’ve talked about some of them before, but they would include things like AWS Network Firewall, Amazon GuardDuty, AWS Shield, and various controls you’ll find within your VPC configuration such as network ACLs, Security Groups, and DNS firewall.

Aside from reading the document, I recommend you add the following video to your watch list.

If you’re already following the Well-Architected framework, sound off in the comments below! ??????

Career Advice for Cloud Networking and Network Security Professionals

Moving right along, "Learn and Be Curious" is one of Amazon's leadership principles that emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and a natural curiosity. At its core, this principle encourages individuals to always seek knowledge, ask questions, and explore new possibilities. It's about never being content with what you know and always pushing the boundaries of your understanding.

In the context of job hunting, embodying the "Learn and Be Curious" principle can make you a standout candidate in several ways:

1. Problem-Solving: Curiosity often leads to asking the right questions. When faced with challenges, a curious mindset can help you approach problems from various angles, leading to innovative solutions. Employers value candidates who can think outside the box.
2. Adaptability: In today's fast-paced tech world, new tools, technologies, and methodologies emerge rapidly. By being a continuous learner, you demonstrate to potential employers that you can quickly adapt to new environments, tools, or strategies, making you a valuable asset.
3. Growth Mindset: Companies are more likely to invest in employees who show a willingness and capacity to grow. By showcasing your commitment to learning, you signal to employers that you're not just looking for a job, but a career where you can evolve and contribute more over time.
4. Cultural Fit: Many modern companies, especially Amazon, value a culture of continuous learning and innovation. By aligning with such principles, you increase your chances of fitting into the company culture, making you a more attractive candidate.
5. Broadened Horizons: Continuous learning often means you've exposed yourself to a variety of topics, tools, or methodologies. This breadth of knowledge can make you a more versatile candidate, suitable for cross-functional roles or teams.

In essence, the "Learn and Be Curious" principle is not just about personal growth but also about becoming a dynamic, adaptable, and valuable candidate in the job market. Embracing this principle can significantly enhance your appeal to potential employers.

What about in the context of your existing job role? Well, embracing the "Learn and Be Curious" principle within your existing job role can have transformative effects on both your personal growth and your contributions to the organization. Here's how:

1. Enhanced Productivity: Continuously updating your skills and knowledge can lead to discovering more efficient ways of doing tasks. This not only boosts your productivity but can also lead to process improvements within the team or department.
2. Innovation: A curious mindset often leads to questioning the status quo. By exploring new tools, methodologies, or strategies, you can introduce innovative solutions to existing challenges, driving the company forward.
3. Leadership: Employees who embody the "Learn and Be Curious" principle often become go-to experts within their teams. Your willingness to learn can inspire colleagues, positioning you as a thought leader and potentially paving the way for leadership roles.
4. Career Advancement: Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning can make you a prime candidate for promotions or new opportunities within the organization. Companies value employees who take the initiative to upskill and bring new insights.
5. Job Satisfaction: Learning new things can reinvigorate your passion for your role. It can introduce variety to your daily tasks, challenge you in new ways, and provide a sense of accomplishment, leading to increased job satisfaction.
6. Building Relationships: Being curious can also mean learning about other departments, roles, or projects within the company. This can foster cross-departmental collaboration, helping you build relationships and understand the broader organizational goals.
7. Risk Mitigation: Staying updated with the latest trends, tools, or threats in your industry means you're better equipped to anticipate and mitigate risks. This proactive approach can be invaluable in roles related to security, finance, or any rapidly evolving field.
8. Value Addition: By continuously learning, you're not just adding value to yourself but also to the organization. Whether it's by optimizing processes, introducing cost-saving measures, or enhancing product/service quality, your contributions can have a tangible impact on the company's bottom line.

Integrating the "Learn and Be Curious" principle into your existing role is a win-win. It not only accelerates your personal and professional growth but also amplifies your contributions, making you an indispensable asset to the organization.

So there you have it.

Are you going to apply the “Learn and be curious” leadership principle now, or are you already rocking it? Let me know in the comments below! ??????

Tips for Learning: Podcasts

Earlier today I was invited to be a guest on a podcast and share my thoughts on networking and network security. It made me remember that there are a ton of good podcasts out there that can help you learn about networking and security. Podcasts can be a powerful tool for continuous learning, especially in this industry. Listening to industry-related podcasts will help you to stay updated with the latest trends, insights, and innovations. They offer a convenient way to absorb knowledge during commutes, workouts, or even daily chores.

So here are a few I recommend you check out.

1. First, AWS re:Think dives deep into the world of cloud computing, offering listeners a fresh perspective on AWS solutions. Oh, and thanks Nolan Chen and Malini Chatterjee for having me on!
2. Packet Pushers delves into the intricacies of networking, ensuring that enthusiasts are always a step ahead in their networking game. It's wonderful to see Ethan Banks and Greg going strong!
3. For those interested in the rich tapestry of networking's past, History of Networking provides a captivating journey through its evolution. Russ White, Ph.D. did a great job with these!
4. And for a comprehensive take on cloud security, Cloud Security Today is a must-listen, covering the latest threats, solutions, and best practices.

By tuning into these podcasts, you can enrich your knowledge base, and be more informed and effective in your IT role.

Do you already weave podcasts into your learning routine? If so, drop a note and share your favorites in the comments below! ??????

Wrap-up

As we close out this 11th edition of "Securing the Cloud," it's evident that the landscape of cloud security and networking is vast and ever-evolving. Whether you're diving deep into the AWS Well-Architected Framework, embracing the ethos of continuous learning through Amazon's "Learn and Be Curious" principle, or tuning into insightful podcasts to stay ahead of the curve, there's always something new to explore and learn. Your commitment to growth and staying informed is what will set you apart in this dynamic field. Thank you for joining us, and until our next edition, keep pushing boundaries, stay curious, and as always, "Happy Labbing!"