Cloud Computing Gets ISO Seal of Approval
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has released its standards for both public and private cloud computing models. The ISO mentions that the new standardization provides “an overall framework for the basic concepts and principles of a cloud computing system.”
Tim Roughton, an expert in IT contracts who is affiliated with Out-Law.com, candidly commented on the release saying, “While many of the concepts defined and explained by the ISO will be familiar to many customers and suppliers in the cloud computing environment, their inclusion in new cloud computing standards is nevertheless significant.”
Roughton’s analysis is spot on considering the fact that an ISO certification gives cloud computing the credibility it needs to continue moving forward as a disruptive technology. As more emerging markets begin to accept cloud, many organizations will first look at the ISO certification in order to ensure a basic framework is in place in regards to the solution the organization looks to implement.
Roughton analysis mentions, “There are already a number of initiatives, including at EU level, aimed at setting new standards on more complicated aspects of cloud computing, including in relation to data security. Standardizing what basic cloud computing concepts mean paves the way for more complex cloud standards to be built in future.”
The document produced by the ISO specifically defines a public and private cloud infrastructure. The document describes a public cloud as being “owned, managed, and operated by a business, academic, or government organization, or some combination of them. It exists on the premises of the cloud service provider.” The document described a private cloud as being “owned, managed, and operated by the organization itself or a third party and may exist on premises or off premises.”
The ISO certification also serves a dual purpose for cloud enthusiasts. While cloud engineers will be able to say that they are implementing an ISO certified solution into their environment, the ISO certification serves a larger role within the IT community by showing that cloud is here to stay.
