Cloud computing has proven to be a cost-effective, vital tool for small businesses. However, there are still many owners who remain misinformed about cloud solutions. Here are four common cloud misconceptions you need to be aware of.
Cloud infrastructures are not secure.
Information security is a necessity for every business. And the most prevalent cloud misconception is the idea that services lack appropriate security measures. Some find it hard to believe that service providers can keep data safe from intruders. Most also think that the data stored in the cloud can be easily accessed by anyone, from anywhere, and at any time.
But the truth is it’s actually more secure for small businesses to use cloud services. Small companies usually can’t afford to hire an IT department let alone train them to deal with online security threats. On the other hand, cloud providers offer a variety of security services. They can add multi-layered security systems and antivirus protection to keep infrastructures safe from hackers. Furthermore, the value of these services is lower than you would pay for in-house IT staff.
Large cloud-based services such as G Suite and Office 365 are supported by an infrastructure that constantly installs updates and patches. This helps manage security breaches. It also frees you from the burden of installing the updates yourself.
Users should understand that no company is 100% safe from security threats. But data is likely to be more secure in the hands of cloud providers as they are the most prepared and qualified to protect your digital property.
The cloud lacks proper encryption
Most people misunderstand how encryption is implemented to keep your data safe. A good example of this is encryption. This process is generally used for data in transition. The data is protected from anyone seeing it as it travels from one internet address to another. Now, encryption can also be applied to data at rest, where data is encrypted on a storage drive.
With this in mind, you should understand what types of encryption your business requires. When choosing the right cloud service, look for a provider that has a solid encryption service system to protect your company’s digital property.
With the cloud, you are no longer responsible for data security
While cloud security is important, protecting data ultimately rests on the users who have access to it. For instance, misplacing unlocked mobile devices can leave your data vulnerable. This action could compromise your entire cloud infrastructure. This is why a strong verification mechanism in place for devices that are used to access the cloud is highly recommended.
The cloud is never faulty
Like many IT services, cloud-based services are not immune to technical difficulties. It’s not unheard of that some cloud providers have suffered outages and server failures. Such actions can cause corrupted files and lost data.
Hacking is another reason why some cloud services fail. Using a less than optimal cloud service that is vulnerable to attacks can lead to stolen or deleted data. Before signing up for any type of cloud service, clarify with its provider what is guaranteed. Most cloud providers make promises about a service’s uptime or its safety from provider-related breaches.
Security is truly one of the biggest barriers to the adoption of cloud computing in a small business. But as cloud services expand and encryption technologies advance, cloud adoption is increasingly becoming the most cost-effective solution to meet the small business owner’s IT demands.
To learn more about how cloud services can help you secure your business, contact us now.