Confidential Computing and Its Applications in Various Industries

Data breaches are on the rise, and traditional security measures are proving ineffective against the increasing cyber-attacks. In today’s digital landscape, safeguarding sensitive information is a necessity. Thanks to confidential computing, the best reliable method is to enhance data security and protect interests. 

What is Confidential Computing?

Confidential computing is a cloud-based technology which protects the data while being processed. Leveraging a hardware-based Trusted Execution Environment (TEE), it creates a secure environment or “enclave” where the data gets isolated from the rest of the system. While traditional security measures focus on protecting stored or transmitted data, confidential computing protects the data in process. 

• Key Components of Confidential Computing

The components included in the confidential computing method are listed below:

1. Trusted Execution Environment (TEE): TEE refers to a secure environment within the system where data is isolated from the rest of the system. This ensures data security, even when the hardware or software is breached. 
2. Data Encryption: Cloud security revolves around encrypting data at rest (stored data), data in transmit (data being shared across systems) or used data (data being processed). Confidential computing securely encrypts data in all the three stages. 

• Key Technologies Used in Confidential Computing

Confidential computing revolves around the following technologies:

1. Intex SGX: It is a leading hardware-based solution for encrypting memory.
2. AMD Infinity Guard: It is one of the best when it comes to confidential computing and is available on the OVHcloud Advance bare metal servers.
3. AMD SEV: SEV stands for secure encrypted virtualization. As the name suggests, it safeguards virtual memory.
4. Azure Confidential Computing: Azure helps to build a secure enclave for data protection & code protection. 

How Confidential Computing Benefits the Organizations?

Confidential Computing can benefit organizations in various ways:

1. Enhanced Data Security: Confidential computing ensures that unauthorized entities cannot gain access to encrypted data reducing risk of data breaches and cyber-attacks. Besides, huge chunks of money are also saved from recouping from the data threats. 
2. Compliance and Regulations: Organizations are required to maintain standard data protocols such as GDPR and HIPAA. The confidential cloud computing method enables businesses to uphold the protocols while simultaneously protecting data. 
3. Data Integrity: Unlike traditional measures, confidential computing secures processed data. This does not allow for any tampering or manipulating of data of modification among codes. It further ensures the accuracy, reliability and complete trust and control over processes or computations. 

How Is Confidential Computing Executed on Bare Metal Servers?

A bare metal server refers to a physical dedicated server to a single (tenant). Enabling confidential computing using bare metal servers promises high overall server performance, more control, and enhanced data protection in the computing system. 

The steps to execute confidential computing OVHcloud and data security on bare metal servers are:

1. Setting Up Servers: The s need to set up hardware and network of servers that are compatible with TEE.
2. Software Installation: The next step is to install and setup necessary softwares, applications, and servers that can help with confidential computing.
3. Establishing Controls: After the hardware-software setup is completed, the controls and their access need to be configured to align with data protocols and encryption methods.

Though associated with higher cost and increased maintenance cost, bare metal servers promise more control, greater flexibility, and reduced attack surfaces. 

Applications of Confidential Computing in Various Industries

Confidential computing applications are vast and benefit various industries in several ways listed below:

1. Healthcare- The healthcare industry benefits by confidential computing with keeps patient’s information protected, leading to secure data management. Confidential computing aids in upholding stringent regulations like HIPAA.
2. Finance- The financial landscape is governed by sensitive and crucial information. If leaked or breached, it can cost organizations humongous financial losses. Confidential computing in finance maintains data authenticity and integrity by preventing manipulation or tampering.
3. Manufacturing- To prevent trade secrets, keep intellectual property secure, and maintain the confidentiality of manufacturing processes, confidential computing plays an important role in manufacturing. By safeguarding crucial information, it provides a competitive edge, reduces disruptions in supply chain and distribution, and prevents theft and  . 
4. Government- Secure data rings synonymous with government operations. Any breaches or leaks in crucial information can lead to war and international issues or create disharmony among the nations or within the country. 
5. Cloud Service Providers- Cloud service providers can gain significant traction in clients and a competitive edge by offering confidential computing services. Data security and protection are the needs of the hour. 

Besides the fields listed above, confidential cloud computing aids industries such as Marketing, IT, FMCG, and many more. As technological advancements grow with the rising number of businesses, confidential cloud technology will help more and more organizations spanning across various sectors.

Level up your business’s security by taking advantage of the many benefits of confidential computing.