1. Can we use the security tools that come with our cloud platform?
Breach detection and data leakage are two types of security challenges that cannot be easily managed by standard cloud platform tools. For example, built-in data leak protection tools are often configured to recognize things like credit card and bank account numbers; K-12 tools can add specific requirements, such as detecting signs of self-harm or inappropriate images and language.
Built-in tools may also assume that users have multi-factor authentication, but this is not the case in every K-12 environment.
Related: Learn how cloud access security brokers protect student data in the cloud.
2. Why do we need this kind of security now?
It's true that early adopters of online collaboration tools may not have seen the need for extensive security analysis tools, and were quite happy with the result. But with today's changing security environment, more demanding school boards, and more open and accessible internet communication tools, schools must reconsider this decision.
3. Can we use the same tools we have for homeland security?
In some cases, on-premises security tools, such as security information, event management, and DLP kits, may extend to cloud-based collaboration platforms. But this integration can be difficult in a K-12 setting with resource and budget constraints.
Once a district transitions most of its applications to cloud-based services, keeping the on-premises tools tied to the cloud platform will be a long-term maintenance responsibility.
Even with a significant investment in on-premises tools, the shift to cloud computing may be a good time to shift security monitoring to the cloud as well.
Obviously this will depend on how the mix of cloud and on-premises tools changes over time, but the more tools move to the cloud, the greater the gain from removing on-premises data center services.
4. How do these tools protect our collaboration platforms?
Additional K–12 cloud security platforms leverage APIs made extensively by Microsoft and Google. APIs allow them to inspect conversations, shared drives, emails, and control and monitor administrative tasks. The tools can also delve into the enrollment and reporting processes used by platforms and help with administrative tasks, such as user provisioning and workflow management — again, focusing on K-12 needs rather than an organization's capabilities.
Dive deeper: Here's how Google is creating a safer workspace for teachers and students.
5. What is the future of cloud collaboration platforms for K-12?
This emerging market now includes many vendors and a variety of styles. Software vendors from the network security, data leak protection, vulnerability management, and SIEM markets are exploring how to meet K-12 needs by adding to existing tool sets. K-12 IT teams looking to protect their cloud-based collaboration tools should cast a wide net in their product research.
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