Today’s modern workplace is heavily data-driven. All of this information is at the core of most business strategies. Data makes it possible for leaders to base each of their decisions on statistics, trends, and facts rather than trusting a gut feeling. By using this data, businesses are able to operate as efficiently as possible. It’s almost unthinkable for companies to work in the 21st century without creating a corporate email, building an official website, or managing various social media channels. These different tools generate an almost endless amount of data that eventually will become valuable business intelligence. This is one reason why cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular.
Prior Use of Data
Historically, companies kept their data local. This is typically by using in-house equipment, whether it’s disk-based storage or HDDs. The increasing number of remote workers has forced businesses to use other tools for data security. Various software programs continue to rise to the forefront to fill in these data gaps. These software programs may include Microsoft Teams, Slack, or G-Suite. These innovative digital tools create a decentralized work environment that relies on virtual systems for real-time remote collaboration. This is all done with the help of cloud computing.
The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the use of cloud computing due to social distancing guidelines. Companies across the world are expected to spend over $304.9 billion in 2021. However, the sudden transition to the cloud can neglect simple security measures and violations of basic compliance protocols.
What are the Security Risks of Cloud Computing?
Cloud transformation is not neccessarily a simple process for most organizations. Transitioning to the cloud involves a wide range of factors. For instance, the transition requires the migration of software programs, apps, data, desktops, and even IT infrastructure. All of these implementations can create faulty configurations. This can eventually lead to cloud security issues.
Cybersecurity is often not a priority while transitioning to the cloud. Many IT teams are attempting to implement changes within a few weeks instead of years. These vulnerabilities have been a significant weakness for businesses since the start of the pandemic. The lack of control over this data, as well as the vast majority of employees working from home, pose significant cloud security challenges.
Private Cloud vs. Public Cloud
Businesses transitioning to the cloud need to carefully consider this decision. Initially, you will need to decide between the public or private cloud. You can also experience the best of both worlds by using hybrid solutions. All of these different options offer robust security measures. Using private cloud services gives you greater control of your data. This is essential to improving data security for your organization.
Cloud Data Security
Private cloud services offer complete control of each aspect of the infrastructure on the cloud. This is possible, as it operates on dedicated hardware instead of using a shared server. All of the cloud security efforts occur in-house or outsourced to an IT service provider. Companies don’t share any of their resources while using the private cloud. This is especially important in keeping sensitive information safe. Data ownership is also known as a single-tenant architecture. It keeps your data safe and inaccessible to unauthorized users.
What is the Private Cloud?
Businesses that use private cloud solutions are the sole users of the entire hardware. This makes it possible for them to customize their private cloud infrastructure to best meet their needs. These companies are also not limited by generic cloud security methods, which is standard in using the public cloud. Private cloud solutions are especially beneficial for regulated industries that must stay in compliance and maintain specific security conditions, whether it’s healthcare, finance, or government.
Closing Thoughts on Cloud Computing & Private Cloud Security
Due to its protected network links, access to the private cloud is much more secure. Private cloud storage offers greater authentication levels, added layers of automation, scalability, and API-enabled protection. Public cloud providers take additional security precautions by adapting and strengthening their security services to reduce the effectiveness of evolving cyber threats. However, there are a few limits to the security of using the public cloud vs. the private cloud. Ultimately, choosing to opt for hybrid, public, or private cloud is highly dependent on the unique needs of a company. Data security concerns will continue to increase as private cloud solutions provide additional security.
