Title: A 'cloud-free' security model for cloud computing

Authors: Manal M. Yunis

Addresses: School of Business, Lebanese American University, P.O. Box 13-5053, Beirut, Lebanon

Abstract: Characterised by low investment cost, economies of scale, open standards and sustainability, cloud computing is being increasingly adopted by organisations. This paper presents the development of a comprehensive model that highlights the security impacts of cloud computing on organisations| information security strategies. The |cloud-free| security model symbolises a computing model with a low level of uncertainty regarding security concerns. Using theoretical frameworks and deploying the analytic hierarchy process as a quantitative method technique, the model will be both validated and assessed. The model can be applied in assessing the security issues emanating from cloud computing, identifying the security countermeasures needed to address these issues and coordinating the efforts of the various participants to enhance information security in organisations adopting cloud computing. This contribution is believed to be useful to practitioners, academicians and researchers in the information security and cloud computing research streams.

Keywords: cloud computing; information security; confidentiality; integrity; availability; cloud-free security models; AHP; analytical hierarchy process; security countermeasures.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSS.2009.032177

International Journal of Services and Standards, 2009 Vol.5 No.4, pp.354 - 375

Published online: 14 Mar 2010 *

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