Abstract
Cloud computing has become a prevalent paradigm for organisations and individuals, offering a range of services and resources that enable the efficient management, processing and storage of large quantities of data. However, despite its numerous advantages, cloud computing also presents significant challenges related to data security and user authentication. The distributed nature of cloud environments, coupled with the relinquishment of control over data to cloud service providers, has raised concerns regarding data vulnerability to various types of attacks, such as data breaches, malware injection, and denial of service. Moreover, traditional password and token-based authentication methods have been shown to be susceptible to a range of attacks, including brute force, interception, and unauthorised sharing. In response to these challenges, this thesis proposes a novel system architecture that enhances data security and user authentication in cloud computing environments by incorporating data fragmentation and biometric modalities. The proposed architecture consists of several key components, including a data fragmentation and secure storage module, a biometric authentication module, and a data access control module. By dividing data into multiple fragments and storing them across multiple cloud storage providers or locations, the architecture aims to protect data from unauthorised access and reconstruction by attackers. The biometric authentication module leverages individuals' unique physiological or behavioural characteristics to provide a higher level of security compared to more traditional methods of authentication.To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed architecture, a literature review is conducted, examining the state-of-the-art data security techniques for cloud environments, as well as biometric methods for user identification and authentication.
The results of the performance analysis highlight the potential of the proposed architecture in addressing the data security and user authentication challenges associated with cloud computing. The distributed nature of the proposed system allows for the mitigation of risks related to data breaches and other cyber attacks. In addition, its performance against encryption demonstrates the potential of usage in environments where speed is paramount. Moreover, by integrating data fragmentation and biometric authentication techniques, the system provides a comprehensive solution that can be combined with other cloud data security mechanisms, to enhance the overall security of cloud environments further.
This thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge on cloud data security and biometric-based user authentication by proposing a novel system architecture that addresses the unique challenges associated with data security and user authentication in cloud computing environments. The study also identifies potential future research directions, such as exploring new data fragmentation and encryption techniques, improving biometric authentication methods, and investigating the impact of emerging technologies on cloud data security and user authentication.
| Date of Award | 2024 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Bogdan Ghita (Director of Studies (First Supervisor)) & Giovanni Masala (Other Supervisor) |