The Department of Defense has recently switched to cloud hosting, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe. Overall, cloud hosting offers a more secure environment than what the average person could put together, but not all cloud hosting services are created equally. Most people have no idea what the server area of their cloud host looks like, and wouldn’t even know how to get that information.
Risks of cloud storage include massive security threats since they are big targets for hackers. Data privacy and security is also a concern, since cloud hosts transmit information for millions of users–some of it confidential. Record retention, disaster recovery and business continuity are also possible problems. For those going to cloud, here are the five best ways to keep websites safe.
1. Backup
Cloud storage can be used as a backup system, but it shouldn’t be the be all, end all solution. There’s still plenty of room for backing up to an external hard drive or another platform, too. Cloud storage is fairly reliable, but what happens if there’s no backup and disaster strikes? Don’t put all those eggs in one cloudy basket.
2. Research the Company
There’s an abundance of cloud services available, so do the research and choose one with a great track record. Know the security measures in place, response time for disasters, and make sure a live person can be reached 24/7. Do this before files are deleted so an SOP can be developed.
3. Keep an Eye on Administrators
The site owner can choose just how much control other people have over the files, whether it’s view-only or the ability to edit. For larger companies, the HR department should be in charge of this. The moment a person leaves the company, their access to the cloud needs to be terminated. Review accessibility on a weekly basis.
4. Change the Password
Just like anything else, constantly changing the passwords and requiring administrators to change their passwords can help keep files in the cloud safe. Hackers are smart and diligent, and sometimes there’s no telling how long they’ve been chipping away at a firewall. Stay a step ahead of them.
5. Talk to the Cloud Customer Service
Before choosing a cloud server, give them a call. Ask them what additional security measures they recommend and start building a relationship with them. Who knows what might be missed without a phone call?
It’s also good to remember that there are options outside the cloud like VPS hosting for Windows. Cloud storage is just one solution, albeit at times a great one. Depending on the needs of a company, something else might be in order. Consider ajaxWindows, iCube, or eyeOS if the cloud isn’t the right fit.