Cloud computing and storage is a major proponent in the continued push toward enhanced Internet integration in the personal and business settings. By providing applications as a service, as well as virtual server space, this offering has changed many aspects of communications and transmissions on the Internet. However, before you place any sensitive data onto a rented cloud server, consider the issues that may arise over the duration of your lease or ownership.
Network Instability
Dealing with outages can be a major hassle. Unfortunately, cloud computing and storage services are not exempt from this issue. When reviewing potential providers and servers, consider taking a look at their network up-time and contingency plan in the event of an outage. Researching this before entering into any contract or agreement can be vital to ensuring that you have uninterrupted access to your data and services. Otherwise, you may be faced with the unfortunate event of being locked out or unable to connect during a crucial moment.
Outside Attack
Another major issue in the realm of online file sharing is the threat of privacy concerns from outside attacks. These come in the form of malicious programs or scripts that are planted into the cloud server. Intrusions can come from blatant attacks on the infrastructure of the cloud system, as well as more insidious attempts, like script injections on your provider’s web page. Either way, these unwanted invasions can destroy your privacy and corrupt your data. Again, researching the preventative measures of your cloud server administrator can keep you prepared and aware of how to deal with this outside attacks on your data and the structure as a whole.
Inside Concerns
Even if outside threats are properly mitigated, issues can still arise from within. Should your provider be lax in monitoring and moderating public servers, infected users can potentially breach the safety and security of the data of others held on the same network. While it is next to impossible to enforce computer safety, as well as smart web browsing, on others, you do have a few options to prevent these issues. First, taking not of changes in your stored items, as well as any other suspicious activity can be the first sign of an infection. With this information, you should contact an authorized individual who can investigate the issue and prepare a restorative plan. If you are willing to allocate more funds to your cloud solution, a private server can partition your data from others, providing added security.
Focusing on Yourself
With all of this information, your main line of defense still resides within the practices of you and your organization. Failing to install and update anti-virus software, as well as other defense applications when necessary, can cause your own terminal to be the source of the issue. Additionally, unsafe browsing habits, such as clicking dubious links and visiting unusual pages, can lead to serious security problems. Taking steps to educate your employees, as well as refine your own habits, can be the best line of defense when working on a cloud computing and storage server.
