Cloud Security Basics

About this course

Moving to the cloud doesn't remove security responsibility; it changes where that responsibility sits. This course explains the shared responsibility model, identity and access basics, least privilege in practice, common misconfigurations and how to monitor cloud activity. It's written for business users and IT staff who manage cloud services such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, AWS, Azure or similar platforms.

What you will be able to do

• You'll be able to explain the shared responsibility model and what your organisation must still manage
• You'll be able to set up identity and access controls that protect cloud accounts
• You'll be able to apply least privilege so people only have the access they need
• You'll be able to spot common misconfigurations and monitor cloud activity for problems

Course outline

1. Shared Responsibility Explained

   8 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Cloud providers secure the underlying infrastructure, but customers remain responsible for their data, identities, configurations and access. The split of responsibility depends on the type of service.
2. Identity and Access Basics

   10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   In the cloud, identity is the new perimeter. Strong accounts, multi-factor authentication and clear access controls protect data far more than a firewall alone.
3. Least Privilege in Practice

   10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Least privilege means giving each person and system only the access they need for their work. It limits damage if an account is compromised and keeps administrative power in few hands.
4. Common Misconfigurations

   10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Most cloud breaches come from simple misconfigurations, such as storage left publicly accessible or permissions set too broadly. Knowing the common mistakes helps you check for them.
5. Monitoring Cloud Activity

   10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Monitoring helps you spot unusual activity early. Keep audit logs on, review them regularly and set alerts for the events that matter most.
6. Tools you'll need

   6 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Most small organisations can improve cloud security with built-in settings and free checks. Paid security tools add posture management and monitoring as your environment grows.
7. Careers & next steps

   6 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quiz

   Cloud security skills are used in IT, cloud operations and security roles. This lesson sets out typical paths and how to check what the work is worth.
8. Final quiz and certificate

   10 questions, pass mark 8 of 10. Pass to get your Reesby Academy certificate with a verification link.