Regulating Data in the Public Cloud

Despite the obvious advantages for small and medium enterprises to migrate to a Public Cloud Server, for data and application storage, it is also important to factor in the risks that the strategy can entail. Businesses need a considered and targeted approach in the adoption of the Public Cloud Server option. It is critically important to identify processes and information that is best suited for Public Cloud storage.

Several recent breakthroughs in technology are helping to empower small and medium enterprises in their ability to compete against larger entities within their industry. Of these innovations, the services of Public Cloud Server Platforms represent an option that is easily and immediately accessible, while still providing a remarkable fillip to competitive viability. The emergence of several Public Cloud storage options in Dubai, at pay-as-you-go rates and flexibility in operations, represents a huge competitive advantage that few small enterprises in the region can afford to ignore. Nevertheless, identifying data that is suited for migration to a Public Cloud is fundamental to minimizing security risks. A re-evaluation of approach, in deploying and administering network security, is also advisable.

Clearly, storing non-mission critical data and applications on a Public Cloud Server reduces the chances of downtime, process failure, data theft and other related outcomes that a security breach can precipitate. Processes and applications that do not need specific or specialized IT infrastructure, as well as those that do not depend on controlled access, are the best bet for a migration to the Public Cloud. CRM, non- transactional websites and portals, and other lightweight applications that do not pertain to sensitive client information, as well as most shared documents and files, are a good example of data that can be stored on a Public Cloud with relatively low risk to the enterprise.

Several industries that are highly regulated and subject to legal and procedural compliance – such as healthcare outlets, financial institutions and government departments – tend to accumulate highly sensitive and confidential data. It is probably a good idea for such networks to only involve the Public Cloud strategy in quite tertiary operations. By contrast, The Public Cloud in UAE, and the general GCC region, has matured enough to be an excellent and obvious fit for industries such as Retail, Online Media, Tourism and Hospitality, Education, e-Commerce and other industry segments.

The following are a few precautions that is advisable for businesses considering the Public Cloud:

• Controlled Access to Data and Applications: A well administered and effectively enforced corporate policy on the use, sharing and incorporation of data into processes is fundamental to limiting systemic vulnerabilities. This involves a series of precautions which range from training, creating strong passwords and regularly updating software, to numerous other best practices that enhance function while controlling access to data.
  
  
• Data Encryption: While the practice has some limitations of its own, encryption is an easy and non-negotiable practice for enterprises choosing to go the Public Cloud route. Several Cloud service providers bundle encryption into the packages they offer and it is advisable to verify the effectiveness of these options prior to signing a contract for these services.
  
  
• Redundancies and Backup Plans: Even the best prepared businesses, employing best practices and taking into account the risks involved can, theoretically, be vulnerable to disruption due to their network being compromised. This is the nature of networks and the process of information storage – Private or Public. Creating an effective back up plan and incorporating redundancies into the system are the best approach and are key to ensuring business continuity. Identifying vulnerabilities within the Public Cloud environment and implementing an appropriate system for data recovery should be part of all modern networks.

at 10/28/2018, 13:37pm

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