Adopting a multi-cloud approach is increasingly becoming the go-to strategy for organizations of various shapes and sizes the world over. As Forbes reports, 2024 is expected to see this number rise from 76% to 85%. The fiscal advantages of taking this approach are significant, and the prime driving force behind this trend of widespread multi-cloud adoption.
However, as businesses increasingly adopt multi-cloud strategies, securing these environments has become a significant concern. There’s no doubt that multi-cloud infrastructures, which involve using multiple cloud service providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, offer flexibility and optimization for specific business needs. However, this growing complexity brings its own security challenges. This article explores the key risks of multi-cloud setups and presents best practices for securing them in 2025.
What Is Multi-Cloud Security?
Multi-cloud security refers to the strategies and practices required to protect data, applications, and services across multiple cloud platforms. Organizations may opt for a multi-cloud approach for several reasons, including avoiding vendor lock-in, optimizing for different workloads, or increasing redundancy and reliability. However, managing security in such a diversified environment can be challenging because each cloud provider has its own security protocols, interfaces, and compliance requirements.
In a multi-cloud setup, businesses need to ensure the seamless integration of various security measures across all platforms. Unlike a single-cloud approach, where security policies and tools are standardized, multi-cloud environments demand an adaptable security framework. This means implementing unified security controls and monitoring solutions that work across different clouds. Additionally, companies must address the complexity of managing identity and access, monitoring activity, and responding to incidents on various platforms.
A well-designed multi-cloud security strategy includes encryption, data protection, proactive threat monitoring, and regulatory compliance. As businesses increasingly adopt multi-cloud strategies in 2025, the need for comprehensive and consistent security across all environments becomes critical.
Read more: What is Cloud Security?
The Key Challenges of Multi-Cloud Security in 2025
1. Increased Attack Surface
The more cloud services an organization uses, the larger the potential attack surface. Each platform comes with its own security features, configurations, and vulnerabilities, making it harder for businesses to protect all assets. Attackers often target misconfigured or under-secured cloud environments. The challenge lies in securing multiple interfaces while maintaining comprehensive visibility across all cloud platforms.
2. Compliance Across Multiple Jurisdictions
Using multiple cloud providers often means storing and processing data across different geographical locations, each with its own regulations. Adhering to global compliance standards like GDPR, CCPA, and industry-specific regulations can be challenging. Each cloud provider may have different methods for data protection, privacy management, and incident reporting, further complicating the cloud compliance landscape.
Read more: Compliance Is More Than a Certification
3. Misconfiguration and Human Error
One of the most common causes of cloud breaches is human error. In a multi-cloud environment, this risk is amplified as different teams may configure various services inconsistently, leaving gaps in security. Misconfigurations, such as improper access controls or leaving sensitive data unencrypted, can expose critical assets to potential attacks.
Best Practices for Securing Multi-Cloud Environments
1. Adopt a Unified Cloud Security Strategy
A common mistake companies make is treating each cloud provider's security as a separate entity. To maintain security consistency across platforms, businesses should develop a unified security strategy that standardizes policies and processes. This approach ensures that all data, regardless of its location, is subject to the same security protocols. A centralized management system can provide greater visibility and control across the entire cloud infrastructure.
2. Leverage Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) Tools
Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM) tools are essential in monitoring and automating security tasks across multi-cloud environments. CSPM tools continuously scan for misconfigurations, non-compliant resources, and potential vulnerabilities, helping businesses maintain consistent security standards and reduce the likelihood of human error. They also help organizations adhere to regulatory requirements by monitoring compliance in real time.
3. Encryption and Data Protection
Encryption should be a top priority for businesses managing sensitive data across multiple clouds. Encrypting data both at rest and in transit ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable. In 2024, encryption standards have evolved to include quantum-resistant algorithms as quantum computing poses potential risks to traditional encryption methods. Businesses should start adopting encryption strategies that can withstand future advancements.
4. Automating Security Tasks
Automation can help mitigate the risk of human error by ensuring consistent application of security measures across all cloud platforms. By automating tasks like security monitoring, patch management, and configuration checks, organizations can identify and respond to threats faster. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are becoming essential in automating cloud security, enabling real-time threat detection and response.
5. Implement Strong Identity and Access Management (IAM)
With multiple cloud environments, managing who has access to what becomes complex. Implementing a robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) framework, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access controls, is critical to securing a multi-cloud infrastructure. IAM solutions help businesses enforce the principle of least privilege, ensuring users only have access to the data and services necessary for their role.
6. Regular Security Audits and Compliance Checks
Continuous monitoring and regular security audits are vital for maintaining a strong security posture in a multi-cloud setup. Security audits can reveal gaps in your defenses, allowing you to fix issues before they are exploited. Compliance checks help ensure your organization adheres to global and industry-specific regulations.
Read more: The Seven Biggest Cloud Security Threats to Look Out For
Conclusion: The Future of Multi-Cloud Security
As businesses continue to leverage multiple cloud platforms to meet their operational needs, securing these environments will remain a top priority. By implementing a unified security strategy, leveraging automation and AI, and maintaining strong IAM practices, organizations can mitigate the complexities and risks associated with multi-cloud infrastructures. The future of cloud security will increasingly rely on proactive, automated, and resilient security practices that keep pace with evolving threats and compliance requirements.
HTCD offers a simplified view of cloud compliance and security for your multi-cloud environment. We streamline comprehensive observability and threat-detection capabilities across multiple cloud providers, mitigating the risk of monitoring gaps manifesting in your multi-cloud security posture. With our powerful compliance tracker, we monitor your compliance status and offer practical remediation solutions to resolve non-compliant resources and policies. Schedule a demo today to see how HTCD can elevate your multi-cloud security posture.
