Cloud Computing and Reducing Security Risks

cloud computingThere’s no denying that cloud computing can be a real boon not just to businesses, but private users too. Being able to transfer files from one computer to another so easily, and share documents in real time can be a great alternative to email – in fact, many businesses choose cloud computing collaboration over email collaboration for this very reason. However, like with many things internet-based, there are a few security risks to bear in mind when using the Cloud. If you don’t take the proper precautions when choosing a Cloud computing provider, you could end up losing sensitive documents or find hours of work compromised.

So how can you keep secure when using The Cloud?

Protect

In order to protect information which you have on the Cloud, you’ll need to know exactly who has access to it. Know exactly who you are sharing your information with, and utilise Cloud Computing services to allow access to certain documents only for certain people.

You’ll need to keep proper tabs on any material you share which you only want the recipient to see – and fully understand the levels of security that your Cloud provider implements.

If you access the Cloud with a mobile device such as a smartphone or iPad, it’s worth noting that you may not have access to the same level of protection that a secure network offers.

Keeping what’s on the Cloud safe

It goes without saying that you will need to properly protect your passwords to the Cloud, but you’ll be surprised how often people become lax regarding password protection.

Choose a password complex enough not to be obvious, and which you can remember easily enough without needing to keep a record of it on your computer. Don’t choose a password which you use for anything else, and always log out of a session once you are finished.

Look into Retain keys, as they encrypt and decipher information. As the user, you need to have full control over these so that any requests for your information are run by you first.

Keep on track with malware detection – choose a Cloud storage provider which is able to identify a virus in the event of one being shared with you.

Encryption

Operations-preserving encryption has recently been introduced to Cloud computing, as unlike standard encryption it does not interfere with the function of the Cloud. Now, it’s possible to sort, report and search encrypted data – an additional security measure.

cloud computing

Because of the popularity of Cloud computing, hackers are constantly finding new ways of breaching Cloud security. Egnyte employs a third party security firm to perform continual penetration tests to confirm the stability and reliability of its system. While security is being advanced constantly, it’s still preferable to bear all the above in mind when taking advantage of everything the Cloud has to offer.