How safe is a cloud based system for business management?

cloud based security system

How safe is a cloud based system for business management?

What are the security risks of cloud computing?

The cloud is a data storage service which stores your files, videos, and images on a server. You probably use cloud storage every day without realising it – from Google Docs to email, Dropbox, and streaming services like Netflix and Spotify – all these systems use the cloud. Rather than physically storing files on a computer, the information is available from any device with an internet connection. 

A cloud-based management system is a solution which allows you to manage, update, and store the information that is stored in the cloud. They can also save your business money by cutting down on storage and administration costs.  

A common concern about cloud storage is the level of security in the cloud – just how safe is your data? And what are the risks of cloud computing? 

Some of the main security risks of cloud computing include:

  • Data breaches
  • Compliance violations
  • Malware infections
  • Identity theft 

However, when cloud computing is used correctly through reputable companies, cloud security is just as strong as traditional on-site IT. In fact, security in the cloud is often more secure than traditional computing systems, with the added bonus of being scalable, space-saving, and cost-effective, saving you money on IT personnel and physical storage facilities. 

How does cloud security work?

While a physical computer may feel more secure than an intangible cloud, the reality is that cloud security is more than likely much stronger than that on your personal devices. Security in the cloud is strong thanks to security measures put in place by the companies hosting your data – bear in mind, these companies’ reputations depend on the security of your data, so they take it very seriously. 

Cloud storage providers use a series of security measures to ensure the integrity and safety of your data. Security measures provided by cloud providers include:

  1. Physical security – the servers on which your data is stored are usually kept in secure warehouses with limited access by authorised personnel.

  2. Encryption – cloud storage service providers encrypt, or scramble, your data to make it harder for hackers to access.

  3. Security updates – cloud security systems are continuously updated to provide maximum protection. We’ve all ignored update notifications on our PCs – with security in the cloud it all happens automatically, ensuring all the latest protections are in place.

  4. Firewalls – cloud providers use firewalls to protect your data from suspicious traffic.

  5. Highly backed up data – Worried about what will happen if your cloud storage provider loses power? What if their hardware fails? Cloud providers anticipate these problems by backing up your information to multiple sources – known as ‘redundancy’. If one server fails, you’ll still have access to your data.

  6. Security testing – cloud providers often hire external security companies to test their facilities and ensure they’re safe from viruses, malware, and hackers. 

It can be a scary thought entrusting your data to an external source – you may feel you are not in control of your information. However, when you choose a reputable cloud storage system which uses strong cloud security practices, you can rest assured your information is safe. Using a cloud system for business management is not only safe but cost-effective and efficient, too. 

Want to know more about security in the cloud? Contact us to find out how you can protect, manage, and maintain your data with improved cloud security. 

Need a cloud management system? Check out the Mango QHSE system

Image: Unsplash