As cloud adoption continues to reshape the IT landscape, ensuring cloud environments are secure and compliant is critical. However, a cybersecurity audit specific to cloud computing introduces unique challenges, given the complexities of shared security responsibilities between cloud providers and customers. Fortunately, CSA offers training and certificate programs designed to enhance auditors' abilities to assess the security of cloud environments.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the key audit training programs available through CSA:

• Certificate of Cloud Auditing Knowledge (CCAK)
• STAR Lead Auditor Training

We'll also explore how these trainings empower professionals to conduct cloud security audits effectively.

The Importance of Cloud-Specific Audits

A significant knowledge gap exists between conventional IT security and cloud security. Traditional IT audits fall short when used for the cloud because cloud computing introduces new variables. These variables include multi-tenant architectures, dynamic scaling, and a distributed control environment between service providers and customers. This is where cloud-specific auditing credentials come into play.

The Certificate of Cloud Auditing Knowledge (CCAK)

The CCAK, jointly developed by CSA and ISACA, is a training and certificate program about cloud security auditing. Unlike traditional audit trainings, the CCAK focuses on cloud-specific security assessments. It bridges the knowledge gap between traditional auditors and cloud engineers by covering both technical and governance topics. The CCAK is also vendor-neutral, ensuring that professionals can apply their knowledge to a wide range of cloud platforms.

Core Topics Covered

• Cloud Governance: Adapt governance policies and regulatory requirements to cloud environments.
• Risk Assessment: Identify and manage cloud-specific risks.
• Compliance: Navigate the shared security responsibility model and meet compliance requirements.
• Continuous Monitoring: Implement cloud architectures that support ongoing security monitoring.
• CSA STAR Program: Learn about the STAR program, the world’s largest cloud security assurance program.

Who Should Pursue the CCAK?

The CCAK is ideal for a variety of roles, including:

• Cloud and third-party auditors
• Security consultants and compliance managers
• Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs)
• Privacy and data protection officers

Course and Exam Details

CCAK training is virtual and offered in both self-paced and instructor-led formats. The self-paced option takes about 12 hours to complete. Instructor-led courses take place over multiple days. The specific number of days and hours depends on the Training Partner offering the training.

After completing CCAK training, you can take the exam on ISACA’s website to earn your CCAK badge. The exam takes 2 hours and features 76 multiple-choice questions.

ISACA certificate exams are virtual and proctored remotely. Registration is continuous, meaning you can register any time. However, from the date you register, you have 12 months to take the exam.

STAR Lead Auditor Training

CSA's second offering is the STAR (Security, Trust, Assurance and Risk) Lead Auditor Training, jointly developed with BSI. This training equips auditors to assess cloud service providers against the Cloud Controls Matrix (CCM). This course is perfect for auditors, IT security professionals, and consultants looking to expand their auditing skills.

STAR Lead Auditor Training focuses on how to perform assessments for cloud providers seeking the STAR cybersecurity certification. It covers the cloud security auditing process, but also how to specifically evaluate controls in alignment with the CCM.

Core Topics Covered

• CCM Controls: Define and contrast the specific control areas of the CCM.
• Maturity Models: Explain what maturity is and how the CSA certification maturity model works.
• Maturity Scores: Calculate a maturity score for each CCM control area and derive a provider's maturity level.
• STAR Assessment: Recommend organizations for STAR certification.

Who Should Pursue STAR Lead Auditor Training?

This course is a great fit for:

• ISO/IEC 27001 auditors
• Network security managers
• Information security consultants
• Cybersecurity principles
• IT risk and security managers

Course and Exam Details

STAR Lead Auditor Training is a virtual self-paced course that takes about 6 hours to complete. It requires no formal prerequisites. However, we recommend having a basic understanding of cloud systems and experience with IT audits.

The course concludes with a final open-book exam that consists of 20 multiple choice questions. The course bundle includes two attempts at the exam. Since the exam does not require proctoring, you can take it at any time without scheduling.

How the CCAK and STAR Lead Auditor Training Complement Each Other

Both the CCAK and STAR Lead Auditor Training are essential parts of CSA’s assurance education portfolio. CCAK provides a broad understanding of cloud security auditing principles. Meanwhile, STAR Lead Auditor Training provides the specialized skills needed to assess organizations against the CSA STAR Certification.

Together, these trainings offer a comprehensive toolkit for professionals responsible for cloud security audits. Future cloud auditing professionals may find it beneficial to take both trainings to gain a well-rounded skill set.

What CSA Assurance Education Can Do for You

Earning either or both of these credentials offers multiple benefits:

• Career Advancement: Cloud security skills are in high demand, and these certifications demonstrate proficiency in auditing cloud environments.
• Comprehensive Knowledge: The programs cover everything from technical assessments to governance frameworks, ensuring well-rounded expertise.
• Increased Job Prospects: Organizations increasingly look for certified professionals who can assess cloud security and compliance frameworks effectively.
• Enhanced Trust and Transparency: Certified auditors provide stakeholders with confidence that cloud environments are secure and compliant.

The CCAK and STAR Lead Auditor Training are two excellent options to help professionals meet cloud auditing needs. No matter your experience level, these training programs will help you thrive in today’s cloud-driven world. Further explore CSA’s assurance education programs and take the next step in securing your cloud ecosystem.

CSA corporate members may be eligible for discounts on these trainings. For more details, contact [email protected].

Also make sure to check out these other CSA training offerings:

• Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge: Get a comprehensive and unbiased understanding of how to effectively secure your cloud environment.
• Certificate of Competence in Zero Trust: Become an accredited Zero Trust professional. Take part in the world's first independent Zero Trust training and certificate program.
• Cloud Infrastructure Security Training: Introduce yourself to some of the most critical cloud security topics. Explore AI, DevSecOps, key management, cloud threats, and more with these bite-sized offerings.