Have you made the decision to migrate your data to the cloud? Then you've made a smart choice. Storing data in the cloud allows for greater flexibility and security while lowering your capital expenditure.
To ensure data health and safety, start by doing your research. Choose a cloud service provider that you've thoroughly researched and has an excellent reputation and best fits your needs.
Encrypt Your Data
Whether you opt to have encryption built into your agreement with a managed service provider or you do so prior to migrating to the cloud, encryptions protect your data while in transit.
Create a backup schedule
Your disaster recovery plan should include regular backups. Many service providers offer routine backups as part of their service packages and quality service providers have multiple data centers to provide redundant optional locations and ensure your firm's data is accessible when you need it.
Create guidelines and procedures for employees
Clear training guidelines can protect your network from potential human error. Ensure you have guidelines and training for employees pertaining to security awareness and company cloud usage. Regularly augment your security policies with checkups and enforcement.
Understand your role
It's important to know exactly what aspects of security fall within your organization's scope of work as opposed to tasks that will be handled by your service provider. Understanding your contract or Service Level Agreement (SLA) with your service provider is key to protecting your data. Research service providers to find one that meets your security needs.
Close the loop
Pinpoint points of access and close them. Remembering to remove access for previous employees and ensuring encryption keys cannot be easily accessed and exploited is also extremely important to ensure cloud security and health. 