The hybrid deployment model for CSPM tools can be beneficial for several types of companies and industries, depending on their specific requirements and circumstances. Here are a few scenarios where the hybrid deployment model is recommended:
- Regulated industries: Industries with strict regulatory compliance requirements, such as finance, healthcare, or government sectors, may find the hybrid deployment model advantageous. These organizations often have specific data privacy and security requirements that necessitate keeping certain resources on-premises, while still benefiting from the scalability and agility of cloud-based monitoring and analysis.
- Legacy infrastructure: Companies with substantial investments in on-premises infrastructure or applications may find the hybrid model suitable. It allows them to leverage their existing infrastructure and security investments while gradually transitioning to cloud-based environments. This gradual migration enables them to maintain control over critical systems and data during the transition period.
- Data sensitivity: Organizations with overly sensitive data, intellectual property, or proprietary information may prefer the hybrid deployment model. They can keep their most sensitive data on-premises while utilizing cloud-based monitoring and analysis for less sensitive components. This model provides an additional layer of control and security for critical assets.
- Scalability and bursting needs: Companies experiencing fluctuating workloads or seasonal spikes may benefit from the hybrid model. They can maintain their on-premises infrastructure for regular workloads and leverage the cloud for bursting or scaling needs. This allows them to quickly scale their CSPM capabilities up or down based on demand while optimizing costs.
- Industry-specific requirements: Certain industries, such as defense or aerospace, may have specific security requirements or regulations that necessitate a hybrid deployment model. These industries often handle classified or sensitive information and may require specific security controls or infrastructure for compliance purposes.
The decision to adopt a hybrid deployment model for CSPM depends on factors such as data sensitivity, compliance requirements, infrastructure investments, and the need for scalability and control. Each organization should assess its unique circumstances and consult with security experts to determine the most suitable deployment model for their specific needs.
Leveraging managed service provider (MSP) support
This is more of a deployment strategy than a deployment model; it is where the organization outsources the management of the CSPM tool to a third-party MSP. The MSP is responsible for hosting, configuring, and maintaining the CSPM tool, and the organization pays a subscription fee for the service. This deployment strategy can reduce the burden on the organization’s IT team and provide access to expertise and resources that may not be available in-house. The service provider assumes responsibility for the ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and support of the deployed services, allowing the client organization to focus on its core business activities. However, this also means that the organization is relying on the MSP’s security practices and may have limited control over the configuration and customization of the tool. Organizations can decide on the right deployment model (SaaS or hybrid) and can leverage MSP services for the deployment. You can even choose to involve MSPs in the early stages, even if it’s just to help you decide on the best deployment model for your organization.
Let’s understand the pros and cons of this strategy.