The pre-cloud architecture was by no means simple, but it did allow for on-premise hosting. This prompted security engineers to deploy VPNs, data loss prevention tools, firewalls, etc. to keep their assets safe. Now with the advent of multi-cloud environments, and each cloud provider having their own policies, security professionals need security measures to bridge the gap and keep their assets safe consistently.
This is where Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) enter the picture, to meet security needs in these complex environments. One of the aims is to provide security professionals with granular visibility into cloud usage. In essence, it is a proxy between the user and the application, thus preventing potential attacks.
What is a CASB?
In the most simple terms, a CASB is an intermediary between your users and cloud service providers. It is a security solution that enforces zero-trust access control, but also other security policies. Think of CASB as a hub through which all traffic flows and it regulates cloud storage and access privileges. It has a plethora of features, such as malware detection, discovering shadow IT apps, cloud auditing, data encryption, data leak prevention, and user activity monitoring, to name a few.
Here are the top CABS providers to have on your radar:
Palo Alto Networks
While being one of the oldest legacy security solution providers in the market, their solution is by no means outdated. Under the Prisma Cloud umbrella, Palo Alto offers powerful application visibility that speeds up issue detection and resolution. One of the stand out features is compliance management, which streamlines checks for various standards (PCI, DSS and HIPAA). There is also an option for customizable compliance frameworks, thanks to its RQL language.
This solution automatically secures various SaaS apps, such as collaboration apps but also unsanctioned, tolerated, and sanctioned applications.
Additionally, it provides real-time protection to sensitive data by using a DLP that utilizes their proprietary AI and ML algorithms.
Netskope
Gartner recognised Netskope as the top CASB provider for four years in a row. Netskope offers a robust security system that is well tailored to Office 365, Box, DropBox and similar solutions. Its granular approach to management of cloud applications, allows businesses to continuously monitor the environment for issues and potential compliance problems.
The solution features an innovative Cloud Confidence Index, which delivers valuable insights into the security reliability of various providers and highlights its robust infrastructure. Despite these strengths, there are aspects of the Netskope CASB that could benefit from enhancement. Users have encountered challenges concerning public IP addresses, such as their IP being identified as originating from another country.
For pricing, you will need to contact the company directly to get a quote if CASB is the only thing you’re looking for.
Symantec CloudSOC
CloudSOC is a platform that provides centralized control, improved network visibility, and offers automated incident response through real-time processing and alerting.
It also features a high accuracy data loss protection that automatically scans content and classifies data.
Most importantly, it features automated, ML-powered cloud-activity intelligence that triggers policy responses, and creates risk diagnoses that significantly free up IT resources.
Cisco Cloudlock
Cloudlock is a very robust and reliable security platform that covers pretty much everything that you will need with its comprehensive feature set, from zero-trust all the way to IAM integration and policy management.
Similar to other CASB solutions on this list, it also employs ML algorithms to find anomalies and identify risky network activities.
Along with the inclusion of an app firewall that controls connected apps, Cloudlock’s DLP constantly monitors the activity on the cloud to help safeguard data through custom policies.
McAfee Skyhigh Security CASB
Formerly under the MVISION cloud brand, the McAfee Skyhigh is still a detailed security platform, renowned for its comprehensive analysis of cloud applications. It manages to play nice with a lot of other applications, but it fits best with Microsoft Office, making it a great tool for businesses that deploy a lot of cloud based services.
We would not recommend the service to beginners as there is a learning curve, despite the platform having a great and modern interface.
However, its biggest strength perhaps is its customizable dashboard which offers a high level of flexibility, thus increasing the user’s control to avoid security threats and correct policy violations.
Forcepoint
Forcepoint focuses on protecting sensitive data and key application, making it one of the best solutions for risk analysis. Its cloud audit and protection enable companies to monitor activities in real time and analyze everything that is transpiring.
Allegedly, the malware engine it uses to stop unwanted malware to spread between users and SaaS applications is from CrowdStrike and Bitdefender. This is by no means a bad thing as the solution is more than adequate in stopping unwanted threats.
You can demo the solution, but for detailed pricing you will have to go through the sales team.
Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps
Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps, functioning as a CASB, offers powerful features for identifying the sharing of sensitive data, especially within Microsoft ecosystems such as SharePoint, Teams, and OneDrive. This solution is designed to enhance security protocols in these environments.
The reports it creates are more unified, especially when used in MS environments. Moreover, it perfectly integrates with Azure Information Protection, and scales fairly easily inside the MS ecosystem, making it a great solution for enterprise-level use.
Aside from its unique automation features and easy setup, another advantage is its direct interaction with the most popular Microsoft apps.
Lookout
One of the best solutions for protecting highly sensitive data thanks to some advanced CASB features like DLP, UEBA, zero-trust and integrated endpoint security. A great feature is that you can scan historical data to find open file shares and other unprotected data.
Lookout scrutinizes encrypted traffic, examining both sanctioned and unsanctioned applications. It is capable of identifying application usage, including those initiated by administrators, to pinpoint any potentially malicious activities. A standout feature of Lookout is its digital rights management capability. This allows security teams to encrypt data and control access, depending on the applications and services authorized to view it, thus enhancing data protection and privacy.
To get an exact quote, you will have to go through the sales team.
Zscaler CASB
Zscaler’s solution boasts ease of use, user friendly dashboards and strong zero-trust features requiring all users to be authenticated, authorized, and continuously validating security configuration and posture.
While the predefined dictionaries could be enhanced, the out-of-the-box experience is more than adequate. DLP dictionaries help in prevention of any suspicious activity. Equally important, Zscaler uses API integrations to scan apps for threats and risky file sharing.
The pricing structure of the solution can be a bit confusing, so we would recommend going through the sales channels to get a clearer picture of the costs for your specific needs.
Proofpoint CASB
Proofpoint, in its role as a CASB solution, safeguards users, cloud applications, and data from various security and compliance risks. It encompasses an array of security tools, including data loss prevention measures, email security, and advanced threat detection intelligence, among others, to provide a holistic security suite.
Significantly, it offers robust threat defense for Microsoft 365, effectively countering cyber threats and attacks stemming from phishing and harmful emails. The solution oversees cloud storage applications, detecting potentially dangerous files. This contributes an additional safeguard in data security through its Data Loss Prevention (DLP) services.
Finally, it deploys ML and AI to monitor for unusual access attempts and suspicious activities.
Future-proofing your security
Cloud access security brokers play a pivotal role in helping enterprises navigate the multitude of cloud applications integral to daily business functions. As the number of applications utilized by a company increases, so too does the potential for security vulnerabilities. CASBs are important in reducing the risks associated with cloud applications, such as phishing attacks, unauthorized entries, and malware.
Employing these leading solutions in the industry can significantly enhance your organization's understanding of its cloud-based vulnerabilities and fortify the security of its key applications.
The vendors we listed will do the job. Just keep in mind your company's requirements as there is no right CASB solution - only the solution that’s right for your company.
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