
Did you know? On average, a ransomware attack occurs every 11 seconds. And even if businesses pay off the hackers, only 8% of the companies can retrieve all their lost data successfully. So it’s no surprise that data security is the primary concern for IT teams managing and storing heaps of data.
But businesses are facing another challenge now- legacy systems cannot keep up with the increasing storage support demands and have become astonishingly expensive to upkeep. This is where cloud computing comes in; it’s affordable, evolved, and accessible.
But is cloud storage safe enough to manage big data? Here are six ways it keeps your data secure.
Built-in security features
Lack of security seems to be the leading concern amongst businesses hesitant to adopt cloud storage. Yet the truth is the opposite – the cloud is much safer than on-premise data centers. Cloud service providers continue to invest in upgrading data protection by adding new built-in security features with every patch. In fact, unauthorized employee access is the most significant threat, and even that can be prevented by authenticating logins.
Segmented network
Another major advantage of cloud over on-premises infrastructure is that it is segmented from employee workstations. This makes phishing useless for hackers wanting to break into your systems.
Surveillance
Cloud services remain unmatched when it comes to surveillance. Service providers have the ability to monitor all resources simultaneously and shut off any part of the system if there’s a bug or some suspicious activity.
Multifaceted approach
Cloud service providers rely on a multifaceted approach to improve cybersecurity and mitigate threats before they breach containment and infect the whole network. With data protection techniques integrated every step of the way, the cloud is less targeted as well.
Additionally, all cloud services follow strict cybersecurity protocols and comply with HIPAA, FISMA, PCI DSS, and IEEE standards.
Homogeneous architecture
Since day one, local networks have evolved and incorporated new features and security patches. Unfortunately, neither do these technologies integrate with one another, nor do they share a streamlined logging and management framework. This puts traditional data centers and their defensive mechanisms at a disadvantage against current complex threats. On top of that, legacy systems eventually lose safety updates unless the hardware is also upgraded.
In comparison, the cloud has a homogeneous and refined architecture. Cloud data centers follow a blueprint of built-in security that is found in every corner. This leaves little space for attackers to exploit.
It’s safe to say if they get over their initial hesitancy to adopt cloud storage, businesses can benefit immensely from it in the long run.
Steps You Can Take to Increase Cloud Data Security
While it’s established that the cloud carries solid security, businesses also need to play their part in maintaining a safe environment for the sensitive information they store online. Some steps you can take to keep data safe on cloud servers proactively include:
- Using encrypted communication channels.
- Having unique encryption keys.
- Enabling multi-factor authentication on login.
- Choosing a reputable cloud provider.
- Restricting access among departments and training employees in cybersecurity best practices.
Through these methods, you can stay on top of any threats and keep your cloud provider vigilant as well.