Getting Started with Cloud HSM

Introduction

Cloud Hardware Security Modules (HSM) provide top-notch security for cryptographic key management. This blog post will simplify the concept of Cloud HSM, specifically focusing on AWS CloudHSM, and explore real-world use cases to illustrate its importance.

What is Cloud HSM?

Cloud HSM, or Cloud Hardware Security Module, is a service hosted in the cloud designed for secure encryption key storage and the performance of cryptographic functions. It serves as a virtual vault, safeguarding encryption keys from external threats. The AWS CloudHSM service, in particular, provides a dedicated, single-tenant HSM adhering to rigorous security protocols, including compliance with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 standards. It operates within a user's Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), offering an isolated environment for enhanced security.

Setting Up AWS CloudHSM

1. Initial Setup: Start with an AWS account and set up our environment, including a VPC, IAM roles, and security groups.
2. Creating a Cluster and HSM: Create our CloudHSM cluster. Once the cluster is ready and uninitialized, create our HSM using the AWS console, CLI, or API.
3. Cluster Initialization and Activation: Initialize the cluster with our credentials and activate it for use.
4. User and Key Management: Utilize the CloudHSM tools to create users, manage keys, and protect data.

Real-World Use Cases

1. Financial Services: A bank uses Cloud HSM to manage encryption keys for its transaction database, ensuring customer data is encrypted and only accessible under stringent security protocols.
2. Healthcare Data Protection: A healthcare provider employs Cloud HSM to store keys used for encrypting patient records, complying with HIPAA regulations.
3. E-Commerce Security: An online retailer uses Cloud HSM to manage SSL/TLS keys, securing customer transactions and ensuring data integrity.

Operational Considerations

• High Availability: Use at least two HSMs in different Availability Zones for robustness.
• Security and Compliance: Enjoy a single-tenant HSM with AWS managing firmware and health, without accessing our keys.

Pricing and Support

Pay-as-you-go with hourly billing, and leverage AWS support for integration guidance.

Integration with AWS and Third-Party Services

Let's explore how AWS CloudHSM integration works and its implications.

AWS Services Integration

• Support for AWS Services: When configured with KMS Custom Key Store within AWS KMS, CloudHSM can support various AWS services like Amazon EBS, S3, and RDS. Specifically, it supports RDS OracleTDE through KMS integration, providing an additional layer of data security.

Third-Party Services Integration

We can create and store keys in CloudHSM for various use cases:

• SSL/TLS Offload: Enhance the performance of SSL/TLS by offloading these processes to CloudHSM.
• Certificate Authorities: Use CloudHSM with Windows Server CA for secure certificate issuance.
• Data Encryption: Integrate with Oracle TDE for database encryption.
• Digital Signing: Leverage CloudHSM with tools like Microsoft SignTool and Java Keytool for secure digital signing.

Sharing CloudHSM Resources Within an Organization

AWS CloudHSM clusters are hosted within private subnets. To facilitate resource sharing within an organization, these subnets can be shared using AWS Resource Access Manager (RAM). This approach allows for controlled access across the organization but with specific considerations:

• Subnet Sharing, Not Cluster Sharing: Although private subnets containing CloudHSM clusters can be shared, the CloudHSM clusters themselves remain exclusive and cannot be directly shared.
• Selective Sharing Options: The sharing of VPC subnets can be tailored to the entire organization, specific Organizational Units (OUs), or designated individual AWS accounts, offering a flexible approach to resource distribution.
• Security Group Adjustments: It's crucial to configure the CloudHSM security group properly to permit client traffic. This configuration is vital for balancing security needs with the necessity for accessibility.

Cloud HSM vs KMS

• AWS KMS: Operates in a multi-tenant environment, where infrastructure is shared across multiple AWS customers. Despite the shared environment, KMS maintains robust security.
• AWS CloudHSM: Offers a single-tenant setup, giving you dedicated access to HSM instances. This is ideal for scenarios demanding the highest level of isolation and control.

For a detailed comparison, refer to cloudericks.com/blog/aws-cloudhsm-vs-aws-kms.

Conclusion

AWS CloudHSM provides a secure, efficient way to manage cryptographic keys in the cloud. By understanding its setup and real-world applications, businesses can enhance their data security and comply with regulatory standards.

See also

Read about setting up high availability with cloud hsm at cloudericks.com/blog/setting-up-high-availability-for-aws-cloudhsm.

Read about AWS RAM at cloudericks.com/blog/demystifying-aws-resource-access-manager-ram.