
7 Key Cloud Security Frameworks Explained
A cloud security framework is a set of policies, tools, and best practices that help protect data and services in the cloud.
A cloud security framework is a set of policies, tools, and best practices that help protect data and services in the cloud.
Cloud computing has transformed how businesses build and deploy automations, applications, and agents across industries. However, as cloud environments become more complex, security challenges increase with it. Enter cloud security frameworks. Cloud security frameworks provide a structured set of guidelines and controls to help protect your data and deployments, while also helping you stay compliant with standards like GDPR, HIPAA, and beyond.
Whether you’re navigating multi-cloud environments or building on a single platform, a strong framework always gives you the clarity and consistency you need to reduce risk and stay in control.
A cloud security framework is a structured set of policies, tools, procedures, and best practices designed to secure cloud environments. It provides a blueprint for protecting your infrastructure and data while also helping you stay compliant with industry regulations.
Of course, these frameworks aren’t one-size-fits-all. Depending on your industry and risk tolerance, you might follow one or more frameworks to guide how you approach.
While each framework is unique, each typically covers five core areas:
Addressing these core areas and adopting a cloud security framework can help you build long-term trust with customers and partners.
Every cloud security framework includes four building blocks:
These elements work together to make sure your security posture is both proactive and responsive. This gives you the flexibility to scale without compromising protection.
While each framework has its own specifics, a few best practices apply across the board. These tips can help you get the best results when implementing a new framework:
As more organizations shift critical work to the cloud, the security stakes are higher than ever. You’re no longer protecting just a physical perimeter — you’re safeguarding a distributed environment that spans data centers, devices, and even third-party services. Having a cloud security framework makes all the difference since it helps you:
They also create consistency across teams. Whether your developers are deploying on an open application development platform, like the Salesforce Platform, or other third-party platforms like AWS, Azure, a cloud security framework keeps everyone following a unified approach to protection and compliance. The result is fewer vulnerabilities and greater confidence as your business grows in the cloud.
From government-grade requirements to industry-specific controls, cloud security frameworks help businesses of all types stay secure and compliant. Below are seven of the most widely recognized frameworks and standards, what they cover, and how to apply them.
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework is one of the most comprehensive and flexible security models available. Originally developed for U.S. critical infrastructure, it’s now widely used by organizations across all sectors.
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ISO/IEC 27001 is an international standard that helps organizations establish, implement, maintain, and continually improve their information security management system (ISMS).
The CSA Cloud Controls Matrix is a detailed framework of security controls tailored specifically to cloud environments. It helps providers and customers assess risk and improve security posture across service models.
FedRAMP is a U.S. government program that standardizes the security assessment and authorization process for cloud products and services. It’s a must for any cloud provider working with federal agencies.
PCI DSS is a global standard designed to protect payment card data and prevent fraud. It outlines specific requirements for organizations that store, process, or transmit cardholder data.
The CIS Controls are a set of prioritized cybersecurity best practices designed to reduce the most common and impactful attacks. They offer an easily adoptable approach for improving your security posture.
NIST Special Publication 800-53 is a rigorous catalog of security and privacy controls used across U.S. federal information systems. It’s one of the most detailed frameworks available.
Like most data security solutions, frameworks are only as good as the tools behind them. That’s why matching your cloud security approach to a trusted platform matters. The Salesforce Platform offers built-in security features to help you meet leading cloud security standards — all while staying flexible enough to evolve with your business.
Salesforce gives you enterprise-grade security tools to help meet compliance requirements and protect sensitive data from day one.
Security shouldn’t be slowing you down, rather it should be accelerating your organization’s success. Salesforce helps you integrate cloud security across all your environments while scaling to meet the needs of growing teams and global operations.
With CSPM capabilities, you can monitor risk and resolve vulnerabilities across your Salesforce environments. The Salesforce Platform also supports secure development for your apps and Agentforce, so your teams can build confidently without compromising compliance
Hyperforce boosts global security and performance by deploying Salesforce in major public cloud infrastructure across regions — while keeping data residency and regulatory requirements in check. Salesforce adapts to your architecture and your goals, with security baked in at every layer.
By combining leading cloud security standards with the power of Salesforce Platform capabilities, you can stay compliant, mitigate risks, and protect what matters most: your data, your users, and your business.
A cloud security framework is a set of guidelines and best practices that organizations follow to design, build, and maintain a secure cloud environment. It provides a structured approach to managing security risks and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
The Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM) is a detailed cybersecurity control framework for cloud environments. It provides a list of 197 control objectives across 17 domains to help organizations assess their security risks and ensure that their cloud service providers are meeting security standards.
PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) is a global standard for protecting cardholder data. For cloud environments, it requires organizations to implement specific security measures such as firewalls, encryption, and strong access controls to ensure that all payment card information is handled securely.
The NIST 800-53 framework is a detailed catalog of security and privacy controls for U.S. federal information systems. It provides a comprehensive set of controls that government agencies and contractors use to protect data, manage risks, and ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.
The CIS Controls are a prioritized set of cybersecurity best practices designed to help organizations of all sizes protect against the most common cyber attacks. They provide a practical framework for implementing effective security measures, from asset inventory to data protection and incident response.
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