The world of technology and related factors have changed how companies function in the digital landscape. Most companies have taken advantage of digital data sharing and storage, which helps to make their work streamlined and efficient. The evolution of this technology and its common use make it trusted, and the proliferation of cloud computing has increased exponentially.

But there are those out there who would like to take advantage of your company’s data, and the easiest way for them to do this is through the cloud where your data is stored. In this blog post, we will take a look at what cloud security is, as well as some reasons why it is such an important safeguard for your business. Let’s get started!

What is Cloud Computing?

When we refer to the “cloud” or “cloud computing”, we are talking about the process of accessing resources, software, and databases outside the confines of local hardware, such as a computer or server. This type of technology gives organizations flexibility when scaling their operations, which is done by offloading a majority of their infrastructure management to third-party hosting providers. 

The three most common cloud computing services are:

• IaaS (Infrastructure-as-a-Service): This is a hybrid system that allows organizations to manage some of their data and applications in their facility while also relying on cloud providers to manage servers, hardware, networking, virtualization, and storage.
• PaaS (Platform-as-a-Service): This cloud computing allows organizations to streamline their application development and delivery. It provides a custom application framework that automatically manages operating systems, software updates, storage, and supporting infrastructure in the cloud.
• SaaS (Software-as-a-Service): Cloud-based software hosted online and typically available through a monthly or yearly subscription. Third-party providers manage all potential technical issues, including but not limited to data, middleware, servers, and storage. This minimizes IT resource expenditures and streamlines maintenance and support functions.

What is Cloud Security?

Cloud security is a collection of procedures and technology designed to combat external and internal threats to business security. Suppose your company is moving toward a digital transformation strategy or incorporating cloud-based tools and services. In that case, cloud security is a must-have to ensure that your sensitive data stays intact. It is important to strike a balance between taking advantage of the benefits of related cloud technologies and using the best cloud security practices possible.

What Are Some Reasons Why Cloud Security Is Important?

Cloud security is important for many reasons, the biggest and most obvious of which is that it guards against security breaches. A lack of data security can greatly harm your company’s financial health, and sometimes it can take a while to be detected. This makes data security on your cloud storage system vital, especially if your business utilizes a public cloud alternative that allows for third-party access.

Cloud storage has many advantages, including that your data can be accessed from anywhere in the world. This is great for remote workers but emphasizes the need for your data to be protected and handled properly. Cloud security may be the only thing standing between your data and malware or phishing scams on the public internet that your employees could potentially use.

Additionally, we all know that disaster can strike anytime, and things like a flood or fire could negatively impact your data if it is not properly secured. Cloud security systems help safeguard your data in the cloud, so you do not have to worry about losing it in the event of a natural disaster. You will also be able to comply more easily with HIPAA and GDPR regulations that are in place to protect your customers.

The last advantage of great cloud security is the implementation of access controls. Limiting access to data to only those employees who need it is the best way to prevent important and potentially sensitive data from leaking to the public. This keeps your business’s reputation from getting damaged while also protecting your data, keeping you in the good graces of your customers.

What Types of Cloud Security Are Available?

There are four types of cloud security that are available today:

• Identity and access management (IAM): These tools and services allow enterprises to deploy policy-driven enforcement protocols for all users attempting to access both on-site and cloud-based services. IAM is designed to create digital identities for all users so they can be actively monitored and restricted when necessary during data interactions.
• Data loss prevention (DLP): These tools and services are designed to ensure the security of regulated cloud data. DLP solutions combine remediation alerts, data encryption, and other preventative measures to protect all types of stored data.

• Security information and event management (SIEM): This solution automates threat monitoring, detection, and response in cloud-based environments. Using artificial intelligence to correlate log data across multiple platforms and digital assets, SIEM gives IT teams the ability to successfully apply their network security protocols while quickly reacting to any potential threats.
• Disaster recovery: Regardless of the preventative measures for on-site and cloud-based infrastructures, data breaches and outages can still occur. Businesses must be able to react to vulnerabilities or system outages as soon as possible. Disaster recovery solutions provide organizations with tools, services, and protocols to expedite the recovery of lost data and resume business operations.

Managed Services Group is devoted to making sure your data is protected by providing secondary security that is separate and away from a potential disaster site. We ensure you have the right IT resources to cater to your needs while protecting your business from security or weather-related disasters.  Contact us at MSG to discuss how we can assist your business today.