AWS Security Hub vs Azure Security Center: Multi-Cloud CSPM Implementation Strategy

What are the core differences between AWS Security Hub and Azure Security Center?

AWS Security Hub functions as a centralized security findings aggregator that normalizes alerts from multiple AWS security services and third-party tools, while Azure Security Center (now Microsoft Defender for Cloud) provides both security posture management and threat protection with built-in remediation capabilities. The fundamental architectural difference impacts how organizations should approach multi-cloud CSPM implementation.

AWS Security Hub aggregates findings from services like GuardDuty, Inspector, Macie, and Config using the AWS Security Finding Format (ASFF). It provides compliance status dashboards for standards like CIS AWS Foundations Benchmark, AWS Foundational Security Standard, and PCI DSS. However, Security Hub primarily serves as a centralized view rather than an active security enforcement platform.

Azure Security Center integrates deeply with Azure Resource Manager, providing continuous assessment, security recommendations, and automated remediation through Azure Policy. It includes advanced threat protection capabilities through Microsoft Defender plans and offers hybrid cloud coverage extending to on-premises and other cloud environments.

How do you implement unified compliance monitoring across both platforms?

Unified multi-cloud compliance monitoring requires standardizing security controls and findings across AWS Security Hub and Azure Security Center while maintaining platform-specific optimizations. The implementation strategy depends on whether you prioritize native tool capabilities or third-party integration platforms.

Native Tool Integration Approach:

1. Standardize Compliance Frameworks: Enable CIS Benchmarks in both AWS Security Hub and Azure Security Center for consistent baseline assessment
2. Normalize Finding Classifications: Map AWS Security Hub finding types to Azure Security Center alert categories using common taxonomies like MITRE ATT&CK
3. Establish Common Severity Scoring: Align severity classifications between platforms using standardized risk scoring methodologies
4. Create Cross-Platform Dashboards: Use tools like Amazon QuickSight or Power BI to aggregate findings from both platforms

API Integration Requirements:

• AWS Security Hub GetFindings API for programmatic access to aggregated security findings
• Azure Security Center REST API for retrieving security alerts and recommendations