What is the term for dividing cloud servers into smaller discrete areas for applying granular security policy?

The correct term for dividing cloud servers into smaller discrete areas to apply granular security policy is segmentation. This process involves breaking a larger network or system into smaller, manageable segments or zones, which helps in enhancing security and managing policies more effectively.

Segmentation allows for more targeted security measures to be implemented, as each segment can have its own specific security policies tailored to the types of data and applications that reside within it. This approach reduces the attack surface, as security measures can be applied based on the sensitivity of the data and the specific requirements of applications, thereby isolating potential threats and minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

This concept contrasts with isolation, which typically refers to keeping resources completely separate from one another, limiting communication entirely, whereas segmentation allows for some communication within defined parameters while still maintaining security controls. Partitioning can involve dividing resources but does not specifically imply security measures, and clustering generally refers to grouping servers to improve performance and availability rather than applying security policies.