A Secure Cloud Model for Malaysian SMEs
الملخص
Cloud computing refers to a model for delivering computing resources (such as networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) in a shared, accessible, and scalable manner, with minimal intervention from administrators or service providers. In the context of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), cloud computing emerges as a potential tool to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. However, inherent security concerns in the cloud computing environment represent a major obstacle to its widespread adoption by these enterprises. Unlike large corporations that are often equipped with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems facilitating the transition to the cloud, SMEs lack these advantages, making the adoption process more complex.
This paper aims to address this gap by achieving the following objectives: (1) analyzing the current status of Malaysian SMEs regarding cloud computing, (2) studying various cloud computing security models available for SMEs, (3) proposing an effective and suitable security model for the needs of these enterprises, and (4) developing a practical prototype to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. The study focuses on developing a new service for SMEs under the umbrella of cloud computing (SMEsaaS) and creating an innovative security model specifically designed for it. Initial results showed that the SMEsaaS model can reduce simulated data leakage risks by 30% while adding only 8% to the average response time, making it a promising solution for SMEs seeking to securely leverage cloud computing.