Cloud Migration: Can You Securely Store Data on the Cloud?

Between remote work, remote learning, and the steady rise of “software as a service”, the cloud has been introduced to just about everyone on the planet.

Statistics show that by the year 2025, over 100 zettabytes of data will be stored in the cloud. To make it clear how gargantuan 100 zettabytes is, just one zettabyte is a billion terabytes. One billion terabytes are equivalent to a trillion gigabytes!

The widespread adoption of cloud data storage happened so quickly that many people still have questions. What, or where, is this elusive cloud? What are its limitations? Can anyone be sure of how secure it really is?

A Brief Overview of the Cloud

The cloud may sound like a vague, arbitrary term, but it’s actually quite simple to understand. Cloud computing means storing, managing, and accessing programs and data over the internet instead of using a local hard drive.

The ‘cloud’ is really a network of remote servers that allows accessibility from any device. Besides storing data, the cloud can also be used for networking and even running software.

Security Concerns Surrounding the Cloud

Businesses’ clouds house a significant amount of data and sensitive information. So much information that it often makes business owners concerned. After all, suggestions for cybersecurity rarely endorse storing all of a company’s data in one place.

Data breaches are the first concern that comes to mind when it comes to cybersecurity and the cloud. The next big concern is data loss, whether as the result of accidental human error or a malware attack.

Another cause for concern is the array of devices the cloud is being accessed on. Signing on to the cloud while on an unsecured, potentially malicious device can open the entire cloud up to cyberattacks. If one employee carelessly accesses the cloud from somewhere they shouldn’t, it could end up being catastrophic for the entire company.

The questions and fear regarding the cloud are understandable. Any new technology is hard to fully trust, and a company’s data isn’t something to gamble with. Luckily for all cloud users, it was designed with security in mind.

Entrusting Your Business’ Data to the Cloud

Data stored on the cloud is likely more secure than data stored on a computer’s hard drive. This assertion may seem like a baseless claim until you consider the realities of attempted data breaches.

First, hackers use malware and other tricks (phishing, for instance) to secretly extract data stored on devices. An infection of malicious software can sometimes be undetectable to even the most trained eye or advanced antivirus software. Simply put, you are always at a high level of risk.

When using cloud computing, you’re afforded the top-tier security measures of the tech giants who are providing the cloud service. These huge companies store the physical servers for cloud computing in warehouses that only a select number of employees have access to.

All files stored on cloud servers are encrypted — making them substantially more difficult for a cybercriminal to break into. The added help of built-in firewalls, third-party testing, and AI makes the cloud a leading option in data security.

SEAM Services

The cloud is an excellent option for securely storing data. On the other side of data security, SEAM Services is the company to call when you’re ready to destroy that daa. Operating in North Dakota and South Dakota, SEAM is committed to the privacy and protection of your business. Contact us today to learn about our secure and certified data destruction services!