4-2 1 Cisco Secure SaaS Applications Explained

Key Concepts

• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
• Data Protection
• User Behavior Monitoring
• Compliance Management

Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)

A Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) acts as an intermediary between cloud service users and cloud service providers. Cisco Secure SaaS, also known as Cisco Cloudlock, is a CASB solution that provides visibility and control over SaaS applications. It helps organizations monitor and secure data in cloud applications, ensuring that sensitive information is protected and that only authorized users have access.

For example, if an organization uses Salesforce for customer relationship management, Cisco Cloudlock can monitor all activities within Salesforce, ensuring that sensitive customer data is not exposed or misused.

Data Protection

Data Protection is a critical aspect of Cisco Secure SaaS Applications. It involves safeguarding sensitive data from unauthorized access, leakage, and breaches. Cisco Cloudlock uses advanced encryption, data loss prevention (DLP) techniques, and access controls to protect data in SaaS applications. This ensures that even if data is accessed, it remains secure and confidential.

Consider a healthcare provider that uses Google Workspace for document sharing. Cisco Cloudlock can encrypt all documents stored in Google Drive, ensuring that patient information is protected from unauthorized access.

User Behavior Monitoring

User Behavior Monitoring in Cisco Secure SaaS Applications involves tracking and analyzing user activities within SaaS applications. This helps identify suspicious behavior that may indicate a security threat or policy violation. By monitoring user behavior, organizations can detect and respond to potential threats in real-time.

Imagine a financial institution that uses Microsoft 365 for collaboration. Cisco Cloudlock can monitor user activities, such as file downloads and sharing, to detect any unusual behavior. If a user attempts to download a large number of sensitive files, the system can flag this activity as suspicious and alert the security team.

Compliance Management

Compliance Management ensures that SaaS applications comply with industry regulations and organizational policies. Cisco Secure SaaS Applications provide tools to audit and report on compliance, ensuring that data and activities within SaaS applications meet regulatory requirements. This helps organizations avoid penalties and maintain trust with stakeholders.

For instance, a retail chain that uses Dropbox for file storage must comply with GDPR regulations. Cisco Cloudlock can audit all data stored in Dropbox, ensuring that it complies with GDPR requirements. If any non-compliance is detected, the system can generate reports and take corrective actions.

Examples and Analogies

Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): Think of a CASB as a security guard at the entrance of a cloud service. Just as the guard checks IDs and monitors activities, a CASB monitors and controls access to cloud applications.

Data Protection: Consider data protection as a safe for your valuables. Just as you lock your valuables in a safe, Cisco Cloudlock locks sensitive data in SaaS applications, ensuring it remains secure.

User Behavior Monitoring: Imagine user behavior monitoring as a surveillance system in your home. Just as the system monitors activities for any unusual behavior, Cisco Cloudlock monitors user activities in SaaS applications.

Compliance Management: Think of compliance management as a checklist for meeting regulations. Just as you check items off a list to ensure compliance, Cisco Cloudlock audits SaaS applications to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.

By understanding these key concepts, you can appreciate how Cisco Secure SaaS Applications provide comprehensive security and compliance for cloud-based services, protecting sensitive data and ensuring organizational integrity.