Moving data, applications, and communications to the cloud offers businesses incredible flexibility and efficiency. However, a common misunderstanding is that once your systems are in the cloud, the cloud provider handles all the security. This is simply not the case. Instead, cloud providers and their customers operate under a framework known as the shared responsibility model. Understanding this model is a fundamental requirement for keeping your business data safe and compliant.
While technology, and even how it is delivered changes, CTS’ commitment has remained the same since 1980: help you figure out which technology you need to solve business problems, in a simple and reliable way. We understand that migrating to new platforms can cause confusion regarding who handles what. Whether we are acting as your full IT service provider in Michigan or assisting with a specific project, our goal is to clarify these complex concepts so you can run your business with confidence.
Understanding the Shared Responsibility Model Basics
The easiest way to grasp the shared responsibility model is to divide security into two distinct categories: security of the cloud, and security in the cloud.
The cloud provider is responsible for the security “of” the cloud. This includes protecting the physical data centers, servers, storage arrays, and the core network infrastructure that runs their services. They manage physical access to the buildings, maintain the cooling and power systems, and ensure the host operating systems are patched and secure against vulnerabilities.
The customer—your business—is responsible for security “in” the cloud. This means you are responsible for the data you store, the applications you install, and the users you allow to access that data. If an employee uses a weak password and an unauthorized person gains access to your cloud environment, the cloud provider is not at fault. Managing access and protecting the data itself falls squarely on your organization.
How Responsibilities Shift Based on Your Cloud Service
The exact line between what the provider manages and what you manage changes depending on the type of cloud service you use. There are three primary models to consider.
Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
In an IaaS model, the provider gives you the foundational computing resources, such as virtual servers and storage. They secure the physical hardware and the virtualization layer. You are responsible for almost everything else. This includes the operating system, network traffic routing, applications, and your data. Managing IT infrastructure in Detroit through an IaaS setup requires a hands-on approach to security patching, firewall configurations, and identity management.
Platform as a Service (PaaS)
PaaS provides a middle ground. The cloud provider manages the physical infrastructure and the underlying operating systems. This allows your developers to focus strictly on building and deploying applications without worrying about server maintenance. In this model, your responsibility narrows down to securing the application code you write, managing user access, and protecting the data processed by those specific applications.
Software as a Service (SaaS)
SaaS applications are fully hosted and managed by the vendor. Common examples include email platforms, file-sharing tools, or cloud-based CRM software. The provider handles the physical infrastructure, the operating system, and the application itself. However, even with SaaS, you still retain responsibility for your data and user access. Implementing secure cloud services in Michigan requires setting up strong login policies to ensure only authorized personnel can access the software.
Your Security Responsibilities in the Cloud
Even in a highly managed cloud environment, your internal business policies dictate your level of security. While security runs through nearly every decision an IT manager makes, and includes many technologies, we look at security through the lens of six distinct categories: physical security, password policies & procedures, other policies & procedures, antimalware, remote access, and web filtering.
When applying these to the shared responsibility model, they become the foundation of your defense. For example, robust password policies and secure remote access are essential for cloud accounts. If your team works remotely, their devices need proper antimalware and web filtering to prevent credentials from being stolen and used to breach your cloud storage. By addressing these categories, you fulfill your end of the shared responsibility model. A dedicated partner can help you establish comprehensive cybersecurity in Michigan that covers both your local hardware and your cloud environments.
The Crucial Role of Data Backup and Recovery
A dangerous assumption many businesses make is that cloud providers automatically back up their data against all threats. Cloud providers ensure high availability—meaning their servers stay online and functional. However, if a user accidentally deletes an entire folder of critical documents, or if a malicious file encrypts your cloud storage, the provider does not automatically restore your files.
Data retention and recovery remain the responsibility of the customer. Whether deciding to implement on-site, off-site, or a mix, CTS has specialized in data backup and business continuity since the late 90s, including data centers on the east and west sides of Michigan. Establishing a proper strategy for data backup and recovery in Michigan is the only way to guarantee your business can recover from accidental data loss or targeted ransomware attacks.
Simplifying Cloud Management with an IT Partner
Navigating the shared responsibility model internally can strain your resources. Figuring out security settings, managing user access, and monitoring for threats takes time away from your core business objectives. While some companies force you into one type of partnership, we deliver across a spectrum from one-off projects to help desk to full IT department.
By working with a reliable managed service provider in Michigan, you transfer the burden of cloud management to a team of experts.
Furthermore, user errors and technical glitches still happen, even in the cloud. We offer a mix of help desk solutions, including full on-site members, bulk rates and more reactive support. Choose the option that best suits your business so your team always has access to a reliable help desk in Michigan when they need to resolve a cloud access issue or reset a password safely.
Securing Your Communications in the Cloud
The shared responsibility model does not just apply to data servers; it also applies to modern voice communications. Moving your phone systems to the internet provides excellent features but requires proper network security. We provide a managed service that removes worries, we can provide an on-premise voice solution giving you a traditional approach and modern functionality but without a large capital expenditure. If you are looking for modern functionality hosted off-site, our hosted phone systems in Michigan offer a secure, cloud-based approach.
Alternatively, if your business prefers to maintain physical control over its communication hardware, we offer traditional solutions. This is especially beneficial if you’re looking to purchase an on-premise voice system up front without a monthly cost. We can set up and secure a PBX system in Michigan that perfectly aligns with your internal security policies.
Taking Control of Your Cloud Environment
Moving to the cloud does not mean outsourcing your accountability. The shared responsibility model dictates that while the provider maintains the physical infrastructure, you must protect your accounts, endpoints, and data. By implementing strong internal policies, enforcing secure access, and maintaining independent data backups, you can fully utilize cloud technology without exposing your business to unnecessary risks. Partnering with an experienced technology provider ensures that your side of the shared responsibility model is always upheld, keeping your operations simple, reliable, and secure.