Cloud storage for business pros and cons: Nowadays, everything can be accomplished online. You can store files or data, access information, send instant messages, and do more with the power of technology and the internet. However, these practices have given cyber criminals the option to commit malicious acts to steal data.

For businesses, instant online practices are beneficial. It brings a more positive impact on the growth of an organization. But they must be precautious in every step they take when they need to store data on their server or elsewhere.

One advanced technology that businesses can find crucial to their operation and security is cloud storage. Cloud storage changed the way business is done and data is handled. From managing customers to accessing information anywhere, cloud storage gives organizations the flexibility they need to accomplish tasks and get better results from it.

When organizations choose the right cloud storage solution that will meet their needs, they can enjoy a smooth workflow and be confident with the security it offers to their business data.

As data continues to grow and cyberattacks happen almost all the time, more organizations need to invest in cloud storage that can manage data safely.

Why Use Cloud Storage?

Cloud storage is a good solution to overcome the problems that many businesses have with their internal servers and online threats. Servers can reduce your productivity at work in a variety of ways, from misplacing crucial documents to attempting to exchange files to big documents taking up minutes of your time to load.

So what exactly can cloud storage do to keep business data safe? And what are other ways businesses can secure them?

How does Cloud Storage Protect Business Data?

Encrypts Data

Encryption means the process of turning data into unreadable code. Cloud storage companies/ providers include encryption technology to make sure data is safe from malicious actors.

Even when the server has been hacked, if the unauthorized individual tries to view the data, it would be impossible. Access to readable content happens when there is a decryption key.

Most cloud providers encrypt data at rest and in transit by using encryption technology like AES 256-bit (at rest) and TLS/SSL 128-bit (in-transit).

However, the security of cloud storage can be enhanced when there is also the availability of client-side encryption.

Encryption and decryption take place on the target user’s device with this method. Because the vendor does not hold any keys, there is no encryption or decryption on the provider’s server. Even if a hacker gains access to the provider’s server, the thief will not be able to decode your data.

24/7 Monitoring

Another security feature that cloud storage offers is the 24/7 monitoring of stored data. Most cloud storage providers have a dedicated staff that provides continuous monitoring and cybersecurity surveillance. They check on the cloud infrastructure for digital threats using the necessary tools for the job.

There is also a team of experts who work on improving the security and overall performance of cloud storage. Furthermore, the physical server of cloud storage is also monitored constantly for threats that aren’t online.

Multiple Backups (Redundancy)

When you store your data on the cloud, the provider makes sure to create multiple backups of the content.

When a file is uploaded, it will be copied multiple times on different servers from the main to others located in different countries.

It is critical for cloud providers to have this characteristic, so when a server fails unexpectedly, the file is still available to access anytime. That’s why there is only a little to no chance of losing your data when you store them on the cloud.

Meanwhile, when you store your data on a hard drive, you’ll need to spend twice what you pay to store multiple copies on multiple drives.

Availability of Built-in Firewalls

Cloud providers use firewalls to protect your files. It functions as a barrier to protect your data.

Firewalls apply rules to all network traffic. These rules filter out harmful traffic and keep your data safe behind the firewall. This makes it more difficult for hackers to get malware or viruses past your cloud service provider’s security procedures.

Third-party Security Testing

Cloud providers hire third-party or outside security companies to test the security of their servers. Hiring other security services to check the integrity of the server will help cloud providers boost their security. They can get more information as to what they need to do to continue providing better service to their clients.

Use AI Tools

Artificial intelligence has been a great technological advancement in cybersecurity. It is used to protect data and monitor unusual behavior even without the help of humans. AI is often used as the first level of security. Their algorithms can identify suspicious activities and vulnerabilities within the system.

Constant Updates

Cloud providers make sure to update their security measures consistently. These updates are important because they patch vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the system that hackers can exploit.

When you store your data in the cloud, you do not have to worry about updating your software, the cloud provider will run it for you.

Cloud storage providers always use the best technology to secure all data in the cloud. Furthermore, they combine it with continuous monitoring and updating of the software and server to make sure that hackers will not get a chance.

However, even if a cloud provider has the best security practice to protect your business data, threats can still find a way into their server. This is because of the clients. Therefore, make sure that you also know how to play your part to protect your data online.

Here are some ways you can secure your cloud data.

Additional Security

Enable Two-factor Authentication

One way to strengthen your cloud data is to activate two-factor authentication. This additional security will be the second line of defense after you have input your password.

You will receive a code via text or email which you will use to open your cloud storage account.

Backup Data

Even though your cloud storage practices redundancy, you must also regularly backup your data. This means you store them on your cloud storage and another copy offline or on a hard drive. Always make sure both storages are updated.

Educate Employees

You and your employees also play a critical role in keeping your business data safe. If you and your employees know how to carefully access the data, how to spot a phishing email, and how to report a breach, it will much more strengthen the security of your cloud storage and also your company’s reputation.

Since 88% of data breaches are due to human error, educating your employees can decrease this number.

Log Out of Accounts

If you make it a habit to stay logged into your cloud account on any device, chances are anyone who has access to it can break into your cloud storage. It would even be easy for them since they do not have to know your password. Therefore, make it a habit to log out of your account when it is not in use. You can also add a code to your device so it will prevent anyone from getting into its content.

Create a Cloud Storage Policy

If you are planning to use cloud storage for your business data, make sure to implement policies. By developing cloud storage policies, employees can take initiative to keep data safe. Ensure that the policies are based on what your company needs, objectives, how to use cloud storage, best safe practices, compliance and regulation, configuration standards, and more.

Monitor Cloud Storage

It is also good practice to keep an eye on your business data stored in the cloud. By being proactive in your approach, you can determine changes to the content or new login.

Most storage providers allow users to monitor the activity in their accounts. This includes:

• New sign in
• Deletion
• Updates
• Account activity

Check Shared Files

Cloud storage makes it easy to share files with anyone. This feature makes collaboration possible and effortless. However, sharing files and providing unlimited access to them can be a way for unauthorized individuals to spy on your data.

Make it a habit to audit shared content on your account. If there are individuals who no longer need access to the file, revoke their permission. You can also add passwords or expiration dates on links you share. cloud storage for business pros and cons

Install an Antivirus Software

You can keep your data safe, not only on the cloud, by installing antivirus software on your device. In this way, you can scan for the presence of malware on your device. Furthermore, it can prevent phishing emails that can be a source of ransomware attacks.

There is plenty of antivirus software to keep your device safe. You need to choose a business antivirus that can secure multiple devices at once.

Conclusion

As cloud storage is an integral part of many businesses, both cloud providers and users of the technology should always be active in their security approach. By using a cloud provider with top-notch security features and implementing your policy, it can eliminate cyber attacks.