Cloud Governance is the set of policies, processes, and controls that ensure cloud resources are used securely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory requirements. It provides the framework for managing cloud chaos, security loopholes, and cost overruns.
Key Components
1. Identity & Access Management (IAM)
Role-based access control (RBAC)
Principle of least privilege
Multi-factor authentication
2. Security & Compliance
Policy-as-Code for automated enforcement
Continuous compliance monitoring
Automated compliance checks
3. Cost Management & Governance
Real-time cost tracking
Budget alerts and allocation
Resource tagging strategies
4. Resource Governance
Guardrails for resource provisioning
Tagging standards
Resource lifecycle management
Cloud Governance by Provider
Aspect
AWS
Azure
GCP
IAM
AWS IAM
Azure AD
Google IAM
Security Tools
AWS Security Hub
Microsoft Defender
Security Command Center
Cost Control
AWS Cost Explorer
Azure Cost Management
GCP Billing Reports
Policy Enforcement
AWS Organizations & SCPs
Azure Policy
GCP Organization Policies
Best Practices
Define IAM roles and policies upfront — avoid giving excessive permissions
Use automated compliance checks — detect misconfigurations