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Best Practices for Data Security in Cloud Computing

Cloud computing is more popular than ever with no signs of slowing down. According to the Flexera 2022 State of the Cloud Report, 60% of businesses moved their workflow to the cloud in 2020. While we can credit this transition to the pandemic, pushing business operations to a more flexible and accessible platform has made it easier to keep up with rising remote expectations.

Cloud computing doesn’t only offer convenience. It provides unlimited storage capacity, reduces technical costs, encourages collaboration and scalability and automatically updates systems and restores data. The cloud environment has proven to be highly beneficial, but many are still on the fence about putting sensitive information in the public cloud due to security threats and potential data breaches.

Data loss and security issues in cloud computing are common deterrents from making the transition, but there are security components in place to safeguard sensitive data and reduce instances of account hijacking.

How secure is cloud based computing? With proper planning and execution, you can face common cloud computing security issues and challenges. Here are five best practices for cloud computing data security:

1. Keep Hardware Safeguarded

For starters, we recommend installing a next-generation antivirus solution, which can:

  • Protect your computers from malicious code
  • Ensure automatic updates can fix bugs
  • Keep data backed up regularly
  • Encrypt your device’s hard drive for security

2. Ensure Data Backup

Most cloud computing providers offer a solution that comes with automatic data backup, but it’s still important to make sure backups are in motion. Audit your system on a regular basis to ensure that all backups are scheduled and occurring on a regular basis. You may even consider backing up your data locally; keeping a few copies of your data in different locations can reduce your chances of losing it forever in the event of an incident. We recommend following the industry standard, the 3-2-1 Rule: Keep 3 copies of your data on 2 different media with 1 copy being off-site.

3. Encourage Strong Access Control with Password Policies and Multi-Factor Authentication

All data should be protected by a strong password to reduce chances of data breach and account hijacking. Regular password hygiene is essential to the safety of your systems.

We recommend updating your password every three months and choosing a strong and unique sequence that includes a variation of numbers, lowercase and uppercase letters, and special characters. Most vendors will help you create a strong password by offering suggestions for updates if you’re having trouble coming up with your own.

Businessman using laptop with interface of padlock and cloud computing technology

Handing out your password to all employees might sound like a good idea for workload handling purposes, but giving too many people access to your data center can be risky. Ensure protected data by limiting access control to a few employees. Putting password policies in place can make your workflow more organized and set expectations for best security practices.

It’s also important to adopt multi-factor authentication practices to reduce your risk of experiencing compromised passwords. A second step authenticator makes it much more difficult for breachers to access your sensitive information.

4. Create a Policy for Cloud Usage

Beyond limiting access to passwords, it’s important to have specific policies in place for employees who will be working with the sensitive data. Create a workplace framework that outlines how to access the cloud platform, how often they should frequent the cloud, and tips and tricks for preserving the integrity of the data. A robust policy for cloud computing can help you gain peace of mind and help your employees feel more confident as they navigate the cloud environment.

5. Work with a Trusted Provider

If you’re ready to gain access to your files from wherever you are, whenever you want, make sure you find a cloud services provider that you can trust. PGH Networks can take your business to the cloud and help you feel comfortable and confident about making the transition.

Whether you’re in need of an upgrade or you’re ready to say goodbye to physical hardware costs and repairs, we can help you move your data to the cloud and feel good about it.

Are you ready to explore your options? Connect with PGH Networks today to learn more about cloud computing opportunities.