The Enterprise Management Associates' (EMA) report, Cloud Network Traffic Data: Empowering Network and Security Operations in the Hybrid, Multi-Cloud Era, highlights critical insights into cloud traffic observability, particularly relevant for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in Asia.
According to the findings based on a survey of 250 IT and cybersecurity professionals, 49% of IT personnel in hybrid, multi-cloud settings regard network flow data as essential for monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimising their cloud networks.
Additionally, 38% see the same importance in packet data. Despite this recognition, only 29% of respondents expressed complete satisfaction with their current monitoring tools, indicating a significant gap in effective cloud traffic management.
Shamus McGillicuddy, vice President of research at EMA, emphasised the necessity of both packet and flow data for comprehensive cloud observability.
“Packets and flows are essential cloud observability data. They augment the metrics, logs, and traces (MELT data) that cloud teams depend upon.” Shamus McGillicuddy
The research suggests that a unified approach to data collection and storage is crucial for ensuring high data quality across both cloud and on-premises networks.
Key findings from the EMA report reveal that only 50% of enterprises are fully effective in their collection and analysis of cloud network traffic. The benefits of analysing this data are significant, including reduced security risks, improved operational efficiency, and faster incident detection and resolution. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning security risks, traffic encryption, and maintaining data quality.
Notably, 93% of enterprises surveyed anticipate that packet data will become increasingly important for cloud security operations in the next two years. This projection underscores the urgency for organisations to enhance their capabilities in handling packet data effectively.
CISOs in Asia must take note of these findings as they navigate the complexities of hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Improving cloud traffic observability will not only bolster security measures but also optimise overall network performance.
As cloud environments continue to evolve, investing in robust tools and strategies for monitoring and analysing network traffic will be essential for maintaining a secure and efficient infrastructure.
