Cloud computing is no longer something just for larger organizations. Even small practices are implementing cloud-based solutions.
- 81 percent of companies have a multi-cloud strategy already implemented or in the works
- 67 percent of enterprise infrastructure is based in the cloud
- The average person uses 36 cloud-based services daily
While a cloud-based approach can make you more efficient, it also comes with security concerns. As you continue to add and build, don’t forget to create security from the ground up to ensure your sensitive data stays secure. Use these strategies to help you along.
1. Identify benefits and risks
There is no doubt that cloud technology brings benefits to today’s businesses. However, getting lost in the potential is easy if you haven’t clearly defined what you need. Start by identifying your benefits and risks by working your way through a series of questions.
- What will you accomplish and improve by moving data to a cloud service?
- What types of data will be best suited for a cloud application?
- Will all data move?
- What challenges will you face during and after the move?
- How will you continue to monitor data after the move?
- Do you have a partner to ensure safety throughout the process and as you grow?
While just the start, these questions will open up where your possibilities lie.
2. Review security
It’s easy to fall in love with an application because it solves a pressing need. It’s only after you bring it in-house and start to use it that you discover it leaves you vulnerable. Or worse, you have no idea what risks it opens you up to.
Before you say “yes” to any new cloud platform, check its cloud security practices. Review them regularly to ensure they are up to date. Never assume a system’s security is working - check it yourself to ensure patches are in place to close vulnerabilities.
3. Use automation whenever possible
Cloud environments offer dynamic workspace, meaning their security risks can change just as frequently as updates to functionality. This means continuously monitoring what’s changing within the system, as well as ensuring efficiency with security updates.
Luckily, automated tools are available to continuously monitor cloud environments. This is where an experienced IT professional can ensure you have the tools to stay up to date.
4. Training
Training is always an important part of all security strategies. No matter how much security a cloud-based application has, it only takes one untrained user to leave it vulnerable. Cybercriminals know this - that’s why they target end users almost exclusively. It’s almost always the weakest link.
Training begins with the foundational steps to cloud-based security practices. It should continue to advance as your practice grows. Cybercriminals get more creative with their attacks - your employees need updates to understand what to look for and how to thwart problems.
Better cloud security is crucial as we move forward.
The cloud will continue to be an essential tool for practices as we move forward. Yet with every platform you turn to, don’t overlook cloud security. Without doing your own due diligence to ensure a secure cloud, you’re putting your operations at risk.
Get started on developing your own cloud security strategy today.
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