What is CNAPP?

CNAPP (Cloud Native Application Protection Platform) is a relatively new and evolving concept in cloud security. It refers to a suite of integrated security tools designed to protect cloud-native applications throughout their lifecycle, from development to deployment and runtime. CNAPPs aim to address the unique security challenges associated with modern cloud-native architectures like microservices, containers, and serverless functions.

Benefits of Implementing CNAPP:

• Unified Security Management: CNAPPs consolidate various security functionalities into a single platform, simplifying security management for cloud-native applications.
• Improved Security Posture: By offering a comprehensive set of security tools, CNAPPs can help organizations strengthen the security posture of their cloud-native applications.
• Shift Left Security: CNAPPs can integrate security features into the CI/CD pipeline, enabling a “shift left” security approach where security considerations are addressed from the beginning of the development process.
• Automated Security: CNAPPs automate various security tasks, such as vulnerability scanning, threat detection, and incident response, freeing up security teams to focus on more strategic initiatives.
• Compliance Adherence: CNAPPs can help organizations comply with security regulations and industry standards by providing features for access control, data encryption, and audit logging.

Use Cases of CNAPP:

• Securing Containerized Applications: Many cloud-native applications leverage containers. CNAPPs offer functionalities like container image scanning for vulnerabilities, runtime security for containerized workloads, and container orchestration security.
• Protecting Serverless Functions: Serverless functions are another popular cloud-native paradigm. CNAPPs can provide security features for serverless functions, such as code scanning for vulnerabilities and access control for serverless resources.
• Enhancing API Security: APIs are critical components of many cloud-native applications. CNAPPs can offer functionalities for API security, including API discovery, vulnerability scanning, and API access control.
• Microwaste Management: Microwaste refers to unused or unmaintained container images and serverless functions. CNAPPs can help identify and remove microwaste, improving security and resource efficiency.
• Cloud Workload Protection Platform (CWPP) Integration: Some CNAPPs integrate with CWPP solutions, providing broader security coverage for cloud infrastructure and workloads alongside application security.

List of Tools and Services for CNAPP (Including Open-Source Tools):

While CNAPP is a maturing space, several vendors offer solutions that encompass various aspects of cloud-native application security. Here are some examples:

• Aqua Security Cloud Native Platform: A comprehensive CNAPP offering that includes container security, serverless security, API security, and workload protection.
• Palo Alto Networks Prisma Cloud: Provides a cloud native security platform with features for container security, API security, and cloud workload protection.
• Sysdig Secure: A cloud security platform with functionalities for container security, Kubernetes security, and workload protection, applicable to securing cloud-native applications.
• StackRox KubeArmor: Focuses on runtime security for containers and Kubernetes environments, a key component of CNAPP functionality.

Open-Source Tools:

While there isn’t a single, comprehensive open-source CNAPP solution, some open-source tools can be integrated to address specific aspects of cloud-native application security:

• Aqua Trivy: Open-source vulnerability scanner for container images, Dockerfiles, and Kubernetes objects.
• Falco: Open-source runtime security tool for containers, providing intrusion detection and runtime threat protection.
• Open Policy Agent (OPA): Open-source framework for enforcing policies at different stages of the application lifecycle, relevant for securing cloud-native deployments.

List of Tools and Services for CNAPP including Open Source Tools

Here are some notable CNAPP tools and services:

• Wiz: Offers a comprehensive platform unifying multiple security functions like container and Kubernetes security, vulnerability management, and compliance management​ (Codeless)​.
• Prisma Cloud by Palo Alto Networks: Known for its robust features that support serverless and containerized applications, ensuring thorough cloud-native application protection​ (Codeless)​.
• CrowdStrike Falcon Cloud Security: Integrates various security technologies for enhanced protection across cloud environments​ (Codeless)​.
• Microsoft Defender for Cloud: Provides broad multi-cloud defenses, integrating various security technologies to offer comprehensive protection​ (Codeless)​.
• Sysdig Secure: Combines cloud detection and response with CNAPP capabilities for extensive security coverage​ (Codeless)​.