Understanding CNAPP: The Future of Cloud Security Tools
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Chapter 1: What is a CNAPP?
As we conclude our series on cloud security tools, the focus today is on Cloud Native Application Protection Platforms, commonly referred to as CNAPP. This term, introduced by Gartner, has generated considerable interest in the cloud security domain. The primary objective of CNAPP is to unify various cloud security solutions under one umbrella.
We've previously discussed CSPM, CASB, CIEM, and CWPP—each representing a unique aspect of cloud security. However, managing multiple separate solutions can become overwhelming. CNAPP aims to streamline this process, providing a single solution that enhances the management and security of cloud environments.
The Need for CNAPP
Implementing individual solutions like CSPM, CIEM, CASB, and CWPP offers benefits, but relying on numerous isolated tools can complicate management and integration. CNAPP addresses this challenge by offering several key features:
- Cloud-Native Security: Unlike traditional on-premises tools that are simply adapted for cloud use, CNAPPs are specifically designed for cloud environments. They provide seamless integration and protection for modern features like microservices, serverless applications, and containers.
- Unified Risk Dashboard: While tools like CSPM, CASB, and CWPP offer visibility into their specific risk areas, CNAPP consolidates these insights. This allows security teams to see all risks in one place, enabling them to prioritize and tackle the most significant threats.
- Comprehensive Controls: CNAPP covers security risks throughout the entire cloud lifecycle—right from code template creation to workload deployment. This ensures teams can enforce necessary controls without any oversight.
The Advantages of CNAPP
The distinct value of a CNAPP lies in its ability to integrate multiple protective measures into a single solution. According to Gartner, CNAPPs typically include the following features:
- Development artifact scanning, including containers.
- Cloud security posture management (CSPM).
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC) scanning.
- Cloud infrastructure entitlement management.
- Runtime protection for cloud workloads.
The image below illustrates how these features provide complete visibility and bi-directional feedback across the cloud environment.
Choosing the Right CNAPP Solution
As the CNAPP market is still evolving, organizations should be cautious of vendors who may attempt to market their existing solutions as genuine CNAPPs. It’s vital to thoroughly assess potential solutions to ensure they deliver true integration rather than just the label.
Here are some criteria to consider:
- Does the solution encompass all features of CSPM, CASB, CWPP, and CIEM?
- Is it capable of detecting user activities across all cloud workloads?
- Can it restrict actions based on your policies?
- Does it identify and prevent misconfigurations at all levels?
- Is it able to detect vulnerabilities across various workloads, including serverless and containers?
- Can it assess permissions across your cloud environment?
- Does it integrate with the cloud development lifecycle to identify source code vulnerabilities?
- How effectively does it detect sensitive data?
- What are its capabilities for malware detection?
- Is it available in both agent-based and agent-less modes, given the rapid changes in cloud environments?
- Does it offer a consolidated dashboard for visualizing risks?
- Are there any hidden licensing restrictions that might limit functionality?
Wishing you success on your cloud security journey!
Thank you for reading! If you're interested in cloud security, be sure to check out my YouTube channel, "Cloud Security Guy," where I regularly share insights on cloud security, artificial intelligence, and general cybersecurity career guidance.
Taimur Ijlal is an award-winning leader in information security with over 20 years of international experience in cybersecurity and IT risk management, particularly within the fintech sector. Connect with Taimur on LinkedIn or visit his YouTube channel, "Cloud Security Guy," for further resources on cloud security and cybersecurity careers.
Chapter 2: CNAPP Explained in Two Minutes
In this brief video, the concept of Cloud Native Application Protection Platforms (CNAPP) is succinctly explained, highlighting its importance in modern cloud security practices.
Chapter 3: What is CNAPP?
This video elaborates on what CNAPP entails, detailing its features and benefits in the realm of cloud security.