Architectural Thinking for Security
Overview
This report aimed to outline the design of security architecture for the Turing Intelligent Energy (TIE) platform, a cloud-based energy optimisation system that connects homeowners, installers, operational staff, and third-party service providers. It outlines how the platform is structured to operate securely and reliably while handling sensitive personal, financial, and operational data. The architecture is shaped by clearly defined system boundaries, trust domains, and identity-driven access controls aiding the assurance of confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Details of the platform’s system context are outlined in within the report, alongside a data classification model, and information asset inventory. All functional requirements were linked directly to recognised standards such as the Cloud Security Alliance Cloud Controls Matrix. Furthermore, a separation of duties controls is included, and structured threat modelling using an OWASP-based risk evaluation approach. There are Component and deployment architecture diagrams that illustrate how segmentation, monitoring, logging, and Zero Trust principles are embedded into the technical design.
In addition to technical controls, the document incorporates governance mechanisms such as a RAID log and an Architecture Decision Record, demonstrating accountability and structured decision making. By integrating threat modelling, identity management, and operational oversight into the design process, the architecture portrays how security can be treated as a foundational design principle as opposed to an afterthought. A key factor which would enable the platform to operate at scale.