Importance of cloud security
Cloud computing is one of the most beneficial innovations for businesses providing low-cost, virtual services, and local hardware. Users place almost everything in the cloud, but what do we really know about its security? How can the users protect their data and privacy from being compromised?
Cloud storage has its benefits, but it is also important to remain secure while taking advantage of any technology. While most organizations are offering cloud storage options to keep the data stored in the cloud safely, many organizations are concerned about mobbing their data to the cloud. Cloud storage is a safe way to store a vast amount of data, as long as you are aware of what to look for when it comes to security. In this article, we have explained you the importance of cloud security which you may not know.
SECURITY RULES MUST BE CLEARLY DEFINED
Know clearly what your cloud service provider will address and what security issues are needed to be taken care at your end. A service level agreement should be established between you and your service provider to clearly determine the responsibilities. An SLA should also define:
– Estimated time for the recovery of any data loss.
– Who will be responsible for various maintenance procedures?
– Policies and procedures if the network goes down?
– Who monitors the data for security threats?
USER SHOULD KNOW EXACTLY WHERE THE DATA IS STORED
Your cloud service provider should be able to tell you where exactly the data is stationed. The user also has to question the cloud provider that how the data is separated from others data. It is not a sign of confidence if you did not get clear answers to these questions. Always be clear about your data location before signing any contract with your provider.
PHYSICAL SECURITY IS ALSO IMPORTANT
Pay attention not only for the data which is stored in the cloud. Ask your cloud service provider what are their physical security policies are and where the data will be stored. This should include information such as, whether the video surveillance is used or not. Also, the user has to know what happens in the event of an emergency such as fire.
BACK-UP STRATEGY IS A MUST
As the data is stored somewhere, it is always important to have a backup strategy in place. The data stored in the cloud is always secured. But, the unexpected can sometimes happen. Back-up could include storing of duplicate data in a different location, which could provide protection in the event of a natural disaster or other damage to the primary facility storing your data.
THINGS TO ASK YOUR CLOUD PROVIDERS
– Are the services developed using a secure development lifecycle?
– What are your data privacy policies?
– Is security covered in SLAs? If not, why?
– How do you encrypt the data in motion and at rest?
– What kind of visibility will the user have in your logs?