CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

What does the acronym SOC stand for in the context of cloud security?

1. Service Organization Control

2. Security Operations Center

3. Shared Online Computing

4. System Operational Compliance

The correct answer is: Service Organization Control

In the context of cloud security, the acronym SOC stands for Service Organization Control. This refers to a series of auditing standards designed to help measure how well a given service organization manages data in order to protect the interests of the organization's clients. The purpose of SOC reports is to assess and communicate the effectiveness of an organization's internal controls, particularly regarding data security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. These reports are crucial for both the service provider and its customers, as they provide transparency and assurance regarding the security measures in place. Companies that hold or process customer data, particularly in the cloud, often undergo SOC audits to provide evidence of their compliance with these rigorous standards. While the other acronyms may seem relevant in different contexts—such as Security Operations Center, which refers to a facility for monitoring security, or Shared Online Computing—Service Organization Control is the most pertinent answer within the scope of cloud security and compliance.