Cloud computing has revolutionized how businesses operate - from storing data to delivering services globally. But with this convenience comes a stark reality: cloud environments are prime targets for cybercriminals.

A single misconfigured storage bucket, insecure API, or weak identity access policy can expose sensitive customer data and disrupt your operations overnight.

That’s why cloud security testing is not just a “nice-to-have” - it’s essential for every organization using cloud-based applications, infrastructure, or services.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• What cloud security testing is and why it’s different from traditional testing
• The steps in a cloud VAPT (Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing)
• The best security testing tools for cloud computing
• How to evaluate cloud service provider security
• Best practices and compliance frameworks to follow

What Is Cloud Security Testing?

Cloud security testing is the process of identifying, analyzing, and fixing vulnerabilities in your cloud environment - including applications, infrastructure, and configurations.

It’s different from traditional IT testing because it must address:

• Shared responsibility models between you and your cloud provider
• Multi-cloud setups and hybrid environments
• Third-party integrations that expand your attack surface

Common vulnerabilities found during cloud security tests include:

• Data breaches
• Unauthorized access
• Misconfigured storage
• Weak IAM (Identity and Access Management) policies

 Tip: Even if your provider secures the infrastructure, application security testing on cloud is your responsibility.

Cloud-Based Application Security Testing

Cloud-based application security testing ensures that SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS applications can withstand cyberattacks.

Two Main Approaches

1. Manual Testing

• Ideal for custom-built or complex applications
• Detects nuanced vulnerabilities automated tools can’t

2. Automated Testing

• Uses tools like Nessus, OWASP ZAP, or Burp Suite
• Great for repetitive, large-scale vulnerability scans

Combining manual and automated testing offers the best protection — speed and accuracy together.

Cloud Security Testing Services

Professional cloud security testing services typically include:

• Cloud VAPT — Simulates real-world attacks to test defenses
• Cloud security scanning — Identifies misconfigurations, insecure APIs, and overly permissive IAM roles
• Cloud infrastructure security assessment — Evaluates network, architecture, and user access

These services go beyond scanning; they provide actionable recommendations for risk reduction.

Cloud Security Testing Methodology

A structured cloud security test follows this methodology:

1. Define Scope – Identify applications, storage, and networks to test
2. Reconnaissance – Gather details about your cloud environment
3. Vulnerability Scanning – Use security testing tools for cloud computing to detect flaws
4. Exploitation – Perform ethical hacking to simulate an attack
5. Post-Exploitation Analysis – Determine the impact of a breach
6. Reporting – Provide a prioritized action plan
7. Retesting – Ensure vulnerabilities are fixed

This process ensures a thorough evaluation from discovery to resolution.

Top Security Testing Tools for Cloud Computing

When performing security testing of cloud-based applications, these tools are industry leaders:

• OWASP ZAP – Open-source application security scanner
• Burp Suite – Premium penetration testing suite
• Nessus – Advanced vulnerability scanning
• AWS Inspector – AWS-native cloud security testing tool
• Azure Security Center – Microsoft’s integrated security platform

These tools support continuous monitoring and compliance checks.

Cloud VAPT: Why It’s a Must

Cloud VAPT combines automated vulnerability detection with manual penetration testing to uncover both potential and exploitable weaknesses.

Benefits include:

• Realistic attack simulation
• Detection of high-risk flaws missed by scanners
• Meeting compliance for regulated industries like finance and healthcare

Without VAPT, you might only see part of your risk picture.

How to Evaluate Cloud Service Provider Security

Before committing to a cloud service provider, ask these questions:

• Do they allow penetration testing cloud services?
• Are they certified for SOC 2 and ISO 27001?
• How often do they perform cloud security checks?
• What’s their plan for mitigating cloud security risks?

Choosing a provider with a proactive security culture is as important as your own testing strategy.

Best Practices for Secure Cloud Testing

To maintain robust cloud security:

• Run application security testing of cloud service providers quarterly
• Integrate testing into your DevSecOps pipeline
• Review IAM permissions regularly to avoid over-permissioning
• Encrypt sensitive data in transit and at rest
• Use cloud security testing tools for continuous scans

Consistent testing keeps your environment aligned with security and compliance requirements.

Cloud Security Compliance

Two major frameworks guide cloud security assessment:

• SOC 2 – Ensures data is secure, available, and confidential
• ISO 27001 – International standard for information security

Meeting these standards protects your organization from legal and reputational risks.

Future of Cloud Security Testing

Emerging trends in secure cloud software testing include:

• AI-powered cloud security scanning for real-time detection
• Shift-left testing — integrating security earlier in development
• Continuous monitoring with automated compliance checks

The future points to faster, smarter, and more integrated testing methods.

Conclusion

If your business operates in the cloud, you’re already a target. Application security testing of cloud service providers is a must to prevent breaches, ensure compliance, and protect customer trust.

Cloud Patrons offers expert cloud infrastructure security assessments, cloud security penetration testing, and cloud VAPT services. Contact us today for a free cloud security scan and stay ahead of attackers.