What is the primary role of a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) in cloud security?

The primary role of a Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) in cloud security is to enforce security policies on cloud services. CASBs act as intermediaries between cloud service users and cloud service providers, providing critical visibility and control over the data and applications hosted in the cloud.

By enforcing security policies, CASBs help organizations manage and mitigate the risks associated with cloud applications, which may not have the same level of security as traditional on-premises systems. They enable organizations to define policies related to data protection, access control, threat detection, and compliance, ensuring that users can safely access cloud services without exposing sensitive information.

Additionally, CASBs facilitate a better understanding of how cloud services are being used by employees, including shadow IT risks where employees may use unauthorized applications. This added layer of security is essential for protecting sensitive information and maintaining compliance with various regulatory requirements.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the primary functions of a CASB. Increasing network speed, managing on-premises data, and replacing firewalls are not the main focus of a CASB's role in cloud environments. Instead, their primary objective is to provide visibility and control over the security of cloud services.