Cloud Computing vs. Cybersecurity: Comparing the Fields

Written by: East Carolina University® • Sep 12, 2024

An Information Technology Professional Standing in a Server Room Holding a Laptop.

Secure and reliable information technology (IT) infrastructure is critical to an organization’s day-to-day operations and effectively sets the tone for its success. Cloud computing and cybersecurity are two fundamental components of the IT industry, as they improve how data is stored, accessed, transmitted, and protected, and they secure IT systems against cyber threats.

When comparing cloud computing versus cybersecurity, prospective technology professionals should understand that both fields are highly influential to the overall IT landscape, although in different ways. Individuals interested in pursuing a cloud computing or cybersecurity career should explore the definitions, similarities, differences, career opportunities, and educational requirements for each field.

What Is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is a technology that delivers various computing services—such as software, storage, servers, networking, databases, and analytics—over the global network of internet-based servers and resources known as the cloud. Many businesses have transitioned to cloud-based models because they afford them more flexibility in resources, rapid innovation, and scalability.

Key benefits of cloud computing include the following:

Ability to Scale: Cloud computing enables quick adjustment to demand by scaling services up or down.
Speed: Cloud computing provides organizations with quick access to data and resources, improving performance and productivity.
Cost-Effectiveness: Cloud computing reduces the need for significant up-front capital expenditures on hardware and reduces ongoing operating costs.
Accessibility: Cloud computing provides the ability to access information from any location that has a reliable internet connection.
Reliability: Because organizational data can be mirrored on multiple redundant sites, cloud computing gives companies greater reliability through enhanced disaster recovery, data backup, and business continuity capabilities.
Security: Cloud computing boosts resilience against cyber threats and applies a robust layer of protection over applications, data, and overall IT infrastructure.

What Is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity involves protecting networks, systems, and programs from digital attacks that aim to alter, access, or destroy sensitive information; extort money from business owners; or disrupt normal business processes. The Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC) reports that there were over 353 million victims of cyberattacks in 2023 alone, making cybercrime one of the most prevalent problems business owners face.

Key benefits of cybersecurity include the following:

Regulatory Compliance: Cybersecurity procedures ensure adherence to laws and regulations designed to protect information and systems from cyber threats.
Threat Prevention: Cybersecurity helps companies implement tools and policies to prevent security breaches.
Risk Management: Cybersecurity professionals identify, analyze, and reduce risk to maintain network integrity and availability of information.
Business Continuity: Cybersecurity promotes the uninterrupted use of digital resources and tools to maintain operational continuity.
Reputation Management: Cybersecurity procedures ensure that organizations aren’t subject to the loss of consumer confidence associated with a publicized data breach.

Cloud Computing vs. Cybersecurity: Similarities and Differences

When comparing cloud computing versus cybersecurity, knowing their similarities and differences helps individuals develop a holistic understanding of their contributions to the IT landscape.

Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity Similarities

While these fields have distinct focuses, cloud computing and cybersecurity share several critical similarities that are foundational to modern IT infrastructure.

Data Protection: Both fields prioritize the security and integrity of data. Cloud computing must secure the data stored within systems and services, while cybersecurity focuses on protecting data from unauthorized access across all platforms.
Reliance on Technology: Both fields are deeply embedded in technology and require IT professionals to continuously update their knowledge and skills to keep up with technological advancements.
Essential to Business Operations: In today’s digital world, both cloud computing and cybersecurity are integral to the operational success of businesses.

Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity Differences

Despite their interconnected nature, cloud computing and cybersecurity have distinct differences that set them apart in the IT landscape.

Primary Focus: Cloud computing’s main focus is to provide accessible, scalable, cost-efficient computing resources on demand. In contrast, cybersecurity is dedicated to protecting data and systems from cyber threats and ensuring data privacy and compliance.
Approach: Cloud computing involves managing and deploying digital infrastructure and services, while cybersecurity is focused on strategy development and creating defense mechanisms against threats and vulnerabilities.
Tools and Techniques: Cloud computing uses technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) to detect and respond to threats as they occur. Cybersecurity employs firewalls, antivirus software, encryption, and intrusion detection systems that require ongoing updates and patches to maintain their resilience.

Cloud Computing vs. Cybersecurity: Career Paths

Both cloud computing and cybersecurity feature numerous rewarding IT career paths. As the reliance on digital platforms grows, so does the demand for professionals in these fields.

Cloud Computing Careers

The cloud computing field offers a wide range of career opportunities for IT professionals looking to specialize in this rapidly growing area.

Cloud Architect: A cloud architect designs an organization’s cloud infrastructure to align with its business objectives and goals. Cloud architects typically report directly to chief technology officers and IT directors.
Cloud Engineer: A cloud engineer builds and oversees an organization’s cloud infrastructure. Cloud engineers ensure that the infrastructure is efficient, effective, and built to the cloud architect’s specifications.
Cloud Systems Administrator: Working alongside cloud engineers, systems administrators (sysadmins) help maintain and oversee an organization’s cloud infrastructure. They typically handle troubleshooting, user access issues, and network and system performance problems.

Cybersecurity Careers

The cybersecurity field provides numerous career opportunities for professionals dedicated to protecting digital assets and information systems.

Information Security Analyst: An information security analyst protects systems and networks from cyber threats. Typical duties include monitoring for security threats, investigating and reporting breaches, researching cybercrime trends, and developing security strategies.
Cybersecurity Engineer: A cybersecurity engineer builds systems to defend against hackers and security breaches. Cybersecurity engineers are responsible for developing security best practices, making recommendations for security enhancements, testing cybersecurity measures, and overseeing incident response teams.
Digital Forensic Examiner: A digital forensic examiner investigates security breaches and cases of unauthorized access. Digital forensic examiners are responsible for collecting and analyzing evidence, recovering damaged or deleted data, assisting law enforcement, and providing subject matter expert testimony in court cases.

Qualify for a Rewarding Career in the IT Field

Cloud computing and cybersecurity, while distinct, are interconnected fields critical to the functioning of modern digital businesses. As the landscape of digital technology evolves, the synergy between the fields will continue to deepen. Furthermore, careers in both specialties will continue to grow as organizations adopt cloud computing and more robust cybersecurity measures.

Those interested in launching a career in cybersecurity are advised to explore their educational options, such as the East Carolina University® online Bachelor of Science in Information and Cybersecurity Technology (ICT) with a Cybersecurity degree concentration program. The program teaches advanced cybersecurity practices and principles, digital forensics, incident response protocols, threat detection, risk management, and many more competencies that are invaluable in the IT field.

Learn more about the ICT program to see how it supports your aspirations of becoming a cybersecurity professional.

Recommended Readings

How to Get Started in Cybersecurity With No Experience

What Does a Cybersecurity Consultant Do?

Network Administrator Job Description and Overview

Sources:

ATSG, Understanding the Difference Between Cloud Security and Cyber Security

Cisco, What Is Cybersecurity?

Forbes, “Cybersecurity Stats: Facts and Figures You Should Know”

IBM, “What Is Cloud Computing?”

IBM, What Is Cybersecurity?

Identity Theft Resource Center, ITRC Annual Data Breach Report