Storing your data and managing different applications has become increasingly convenient with the emergence of cloud-based solutions. However, those same solutions come with a variety of challenges and risks that you must take proactive measures to mitigate. When you make the switch from on-site hardware and networks to applications and computer virtualization frameworks over the internet, you will love the accessibility and ease of management for all of your content.
With cloud security options from top cybersecurity companies, you can be confident in the safety of your data and the security of your processes. Learn more about the best practices and protocols to increase the privacy and protection of the data that you handle to instill confidence in your customers and prevent problems before they ever arise.
What Is Cloud Security?
Many businesses are moving towards cloud computing for data storage, software, and analytics that are delivered over the internet for great convenience and lower operational costs. In order to protect your data and prevent disruptions, you need to implement security measures. Cloud security is a more specific discipline of cyber security that focuses on keeping cloud computing systems secure and functioning just as you expect. There are several factors that contribute to cloud security, including technology, protocols, and best practices, Each of these factors works together to protect the data that is stored in the cloud.
So what does cloud security actually do? It keeps your data private and safely stored. You can also use cloud security to protect the physical networks, the operating systems, and the end-user hardware from a wide variety of potential threats, both external and internal.
There are a few different types of cloud services and environments. The main types of cloud services are public, private, and a hybrid of the two. Depending on the needs of your company, you may favor one over the other, but each type has its advantages. There are also different cloud environments: public, private third-party, private in-house, multi-cloud, and of course a hybrid.
No matter which cloud service type or cloud environment you choose, your cloud security should accomplish a few main objectives. Each of these objectives aims to reduce the impact of a data or system compromise so that your business can continue to run smoothly. This means deterring any human error that can lead to data leaks, as well as protecting your network against malicious attacks or data theft. And in the event of a data loss, the ideal cloud security should enable you to recover the data.
What Differentiates Cloud Security from Other Types of Security?
There are many options for improving the cybersecurity of your business, so what makes cloud security any different? It focuses so specifically on the cloud environment that you use, which means you can more effectively target areas of weakness. However, it still comes with different risks and challenges that you must take into account.
One of the biggest challenges of implementing a cloud security solution that works for your company is finding one that is compatible with the IT framework that you use. You also need to be mindful of compliance regulations to ensure that you properly protect and store data. Some of the risks that cloud security must address include internal threats and external threats. Internal threats often come in the form of human error. External threats are most often either malware, phishing, or DDoS (distributed denial of service) attacks.
While it is important to be aware of the challenges and risks associated with cloud security, there are many benefits that you can expect. These include lower upfront costs for things like software and operating systems, as well as reduced operational and administrative costs. Another benefit is the increased reliability of storage and availability of physical networks. And when it’s time to upgrade, you can anticipate increased ease of scaling since cloud computing and security are adaptable to your needs.
What Are the Six Pillars of Cloud Security?
As with any other security option, there are a few things that you should be aware of when you are picking the best choice for your company and some questions to ask your cloud security provider, or CSP. When you are looking for the ideal solution for your organization, keep the following in mind to help you make the best possible choice.
- Be sure your cloud security controls are designed to prevent data leakage. The best way to protect your data is to create a system that is airtight and therefore less susceptible to breaches. While data theft and unauthorized access are concerns to be aware of, it is equally important to have measures in place to prevent accidental leaks.
- Find a system that requires strong authentication measures. The passwords and authentication process for accessing your cloud computing system should be a bit more complicated than your typical login for things like email or social media accounts. Find a provider that offers authentication options that match your preferences.
- Be aware of data encryption standards both when the data is in transit and when it is being stored. Data encryption when in transit can drastically reduce the chances of a data leak as the data is often most vulnerable when it is being transmitted across networks.
- Ensure ease of visibility for administrators, as well as easy threat detection. Threat detection should include machine learning that can identify strange, unwanted behavior and notify the appropriate teams to catch the threat before it escalates and compromises your information.
- Remember to prioritize continuous compliance. Document retention regulations are clear about which information you need to store and for how long, so find a system that facilitates the process with minimal stress. It can also help protect your company from potential legal disputes.
- For the best results, look for a cloud security solution that can easily integrate with your existing security measures. This will speed up the process of implementing security tools because you will not have to start from the ground up. Integrated security can also make it easier to control different applications for a seamless user experience.
As long as you keep these things in mind, you can rest assured that you will be able to enjoy cloud computing and security with minimal disruption to your operations and processes. You will have greater control and access to your data, and you can reduce the risk of internal or external threats.
How Do You Use Cloud Security?
With the plethora of cloud security solutions available, you can find something that works for you. Whether you need something smaller scale or something that can handle the data of a large corporation, there are packages that will perfectly address your needs. At Ontinue, we will help you understand the options available to you and find one that not only works for you but exceeds your expectations. Are you looking for something that reduces the possibility of data leaks due to negligence? Or do you want to ensure there is an option for data recovery if a data breach occurs? Ontinue is here to answer your questions and help you maximize the tools at your disposal. Choose from the different types of cloud security solutions, including hybrid, SMB, and others.
Get Started on Your Cloud Security With Ontinue
Fortunately, you don’t have to navigate the world of cloud security on your own. You can turn to the experienced team at Ontinue for more details about the types of cloud security, the benefits and challenges, and tips on how to use it in your business. We will help you identify the top priorities for your organization and develop a plan for the most likely challenges that you will face.
Are you ready to get started? Request a demo today.