Shared Responsibility Model
The shared responsibility model refers to a framework allocating security and operational responsibilities between a service provider and a customer within a managed or cloud-based environment.
Definition
The shared responsibility model is a framework that defines the division of security, compliance, and operational responsibilities between a service provider and its customer when services are delivered through managed or cloud-based infrastructure. The model establishes which party is accountable for protecting different components of the environment, including infrastructure, platforms, applications, and data.
Under this model, the service provider typically assumes responsibility for the underlying infrastructure and physical security, while the customer retains responsibility for configurations, data protection, access controls, and usage of the services. The allocation of responsibility may vary depending on the service model, such as infrastructure-as-a-service, platform-as-a-service, or software-as-a-service.
Structural Characteristics
The shared responsibility model involves distinct layers of responsibility distributed between the provider and the customer.
- Infrastructure responsibility: Physical data centers, hardware, and core networking managed by the service provider.
- Platform management: Operating systems, runtime environments, and middleware, which may be managed by the provider or shared depending on the service model.
- Application control: Customer-managed applications, configurations, and deployment settings.
- Data responsibility: Protection, classification, and access control of customer data.
- Identity and access management: Authentication and authorization systems governing user access to services.
Parameters & Conditions
The allocation of responsibility within the shared responsibility model depends on the type of service and the contractual agreement between the provider and the customer.
- The division of responsibility varies based on the service delivery model, such as IaaS, PaaS, or SaaS.
- Customers retain responsibility for data security and user access regardless of service model.
- Providers maintain responsibility for physical infrastructure and core service availability.
- Misconfiguration or improper use of services may remain the responsibility of the customer.
- Compliance obligations may be shared or divided based on regulatory requirements and service agreements.
Topic Relationships
Exceptions, Limitations & Boundaries
The shared responsibility model defines allocation of responsibilities but does not eliminate risk or guarantee security outcomes.
- Responsibility allocation does not prevent security incidents or data breaches.
- Contractual terms may vary between service providers and alter responsibility boundaries.
- The model does not transfer all liability from the customer to the provider.
- Security failures may occur due to misconfiguration, inadequate controls, or third-party dependencies.