Cloud Computing Security: Hardware-Based Attacks and Countermeasures

Abstract

Despite its many technological and economic benefits, Cloud Computing poses complex security threats resulting from the use of virtualisation technology. Compromising the security of any component in the cloud virtual infrastructure will negatively affect the security of other elements and so impact the overall system security. By characterising the diversity of cyber-attacks carried out in the Cloud, this paper aims to provide an analysis of both common and underexplored security threats associated with the cloud from a technical viewpoint. Accordingly, the paper will suggest emerging solutions that can help to address such threats. The paper also offers future research directions for cloud security that we hope can inspire the research community to develop more effective security solutions for cloud systems.