A User Identity Management Protocol for Cloud Computing Paradigm

Abstract

Cloud computing paradigm is a service oriented system that delivers services to the customer at low cost. Cloud computing needs to address three main security issues: confidentiality, integrity and availability. In this paper, we propose user identity management protocol for cloud computing customers and cloud service providers. This protocol will authenticate and authorize customers/providers in other to achieve global security networks. The protocol will be developed to achieve the set global security objectives in cloud computing environments. Confidentiality, integrity and availability are the key challenges of web services’ or utility providers. A layered protocol design is proposed for cloud computing systems, the physical, networks and application layer. However, each layer will integrate existing security features such as firewalls, NIDS, NIPS, Anti-DDOS and others to prevent security threats and attacks. System vulnerability is critical to the cloud computing facilities; the proposed protocol will address this as part of measures to secure data at all levels. The protocol will protect customers/cloud service providers’ infrastructure by preventing unauthorized users to gain access to the service/facility.