Cloud computing is becoming the go-to system for file storage. Whether you’re using cloud computing for your personal files or running a digital marketing agency, the cloud is becoming a reliable and more cost-efficient way of storing data and so is cloud computing security.
For one, it doesn’t require installing hardware that would require high maintenance that will add up to overhead expenses.
Also, when you’re working with remote teams, cloud computing can be a faster and easier alternative to still collaborate in real-time wherever they are.
Lastly, cloud computing offers higher storage at lesser costs.
Unfortunately, more and more business owners and individuals are concerned about the cloud’s security.
Since the cloud system is accessible anywhere, anytime where there is connectivity, hackers could find a way to penetrate your system and access your files.
And this is why cloud computing security is vital:
Read on as we share the benefits of using cloud computing and how to improve its security.
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Benefits of Cloud Computing
Any conventional person knows that it’s sometimes hard to keep and maintain hard copies of your files. And this is why the modern way of saving your data is through cloud computing.
5 Benefits of Cloud Computing
Here are some benefits to persuade you that using the cloud for your file storage is a much convenient option:
Low maintenance
You only need low maintenance and very few staff to run, operate and secure your cloud systems, unlike a dedicated hardware system.
You can say goodbye to manual security systems and manual updates. This means you’ll never have to hire more administrators to access your physical systems.
Cloud computing also means you’ll have centralized security because you only have to access your files in one network or server.
Easy to back up
If you storing thousands of files every day, storing them in one system can be easy to monitor and back up.
For example, if you lose all your files in your cloud, then there are certain measures you can take to restore these files without exerting effort in finding them in the first place.
The more files that are stored in one system, the easier for owners to recover them in case accidents happen.
It offers accessibility to whomever, wherever
Because you can access your files wherever you are, cloud computing proves to be a more convenient option for teams working remotely.
The cloud is also built for scalability.
Whether you’re using cloud systems for personal or professional gains, it can offer versatility.
If your business is experiencing a slow season, you can downgrade your system without incurring penalties or additional fees.
Moreover, most cloud systems don’t bound clients by a contract, allowing organizations and individuals to cancel their subscriptions anytime.
Customer satisfaction
Dependable customer service is undeniably one of the best benefits when using cloud computing. Most cloud providers ensure that they cater to customer satisfaction, which means you can talk to customer representatives 24/7.
6 Tips for Better Cloud Computing Security
If you’re decided to use cloud computing for your personal or business files, make sure that you have robust cloud computing security in place. Here are six tips to enhance your cloud computing security.
Keep an eye on these three common cloud computing risks
The disadvantage of storing your files in an online network is that the files can be prone to accessibility from third parties. That being said, ensure that you keep an eye on these three most highly penetrable cloud security risks:
Cloud control
There are various types of cloud systems:
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a service)
- PaaS (Platform as a service)
- SaaS (Software as a service)
- CaaS (Container as a Service).
Before you migrate all of your files, it’s crucial to determine which service provides you’re subscribing to. This is so you’ll know the limitations of accessibility or who has control over these providers.
File deletion.
When you delete a file on the cloud, ensure that the file is deleted permanently.
Depending on which service provider you subscribe to, some files are stored in other locations after you delete them.
For instance, if you’ve signed onto your cloud from different devices, ensure that you use a single-sign-on system that implements end-to-end encryption and update.
Research service providers.
As with any other things, doing due diligence is vital to ensure everything is protected.
Always research the cloud service providers beforehand and ensure that you understand the security level and limitations it provides.
Plan your storage
Before transferring all your files to one cloud, weigh your options. See if you only need one infrastructure to hold all your confidential files. Before you choose a provider, try to do a file audit and see which ones need a separate provider.
The thing about integrating all your files into one cloud is that you’ll probably have to give access to many of your team members to work efficiently.
See if you can use a separate cloud system for the more essential data.
Keep encryption keys
Encryption is another crucial factor to secure your cloud systems. It protects your text and data whenever it is transformed and transferred from one network to another.
Make sure you ask the cloud service provider about the encryption security that goes with the cloud. If not, invest in good encryption technology and ensure that you keep the encryption keys with you and not in the cloud storage itself.
Back up your data
Data loss is sometimes inevitable even if you’re extremely careful with how you handle your cloud storage.
However, recovery techniques can be easier and can have lesser damages if you back up your storage regularly.
Find a way to secure your data by implementing scheduled backups regularly.
Involve collaborators
Whether you’re using cloud computing for personal or business use, always involve your collaborators when it comes to its protection.
Let them know of the proper defense techniques to secure cloud storage. Create a document that has all the necessary steps whenever there is a security breach.
Also, conduct training or refresher courses regularly to remind them of the security measures they need to adhere to.
Run security tests
Run security tests once in a while to know if collaborators are taking security measures to protect your cloud storage.
For instance, you can send them simulated phishing emails and check if they’re recklessly opening them.
Then jot everything down on what actions need to be done to better improve your security protocols and guidelines.
Conclusion
Thanks for reading till the end, so far we have covered quite a lot on cloud computing security, we have discussed what cloud computing is about, 5 benefits of cloud computing, and 6 Tips for Better Cloud Computing Security.
Now, it’s your turn:
What will you add or remove from this article, let’s hear your thoughts in the comment section below. Or let us know you’re here by commenting “I love Cloud Computing” below.
