There is an increase in reliance on cloud computing in several organizations today. Cloud computing has revolutionized the accessibility to high-end technology and information with no indication of its usage slowing down.
The term cloud computing covers a lot of operations and can be a bit difficult to define. Simply put, cloud computing is the delivery of various services such as data storage, databases, networking, software, etc. via the internet.
With cloud computing, information is stored permanently on a server hosted on the internet while temporarily stored on a user’s computer. It provides a remote database for files to be stored and eliminates the need for a proprietary hard drive or local storage device.
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For a lot of organizations and people, cloud computing is a popular option for reasons such as increased productivity, cost savings, speed, and security.
Despite the many positives of cloud computing, there are some reservations due to the inevitable risks of cloud computing. Some of these risks include:
Security
Cloud security is one of the top concerns of cloud computing. With cloud computing, you are unable to see where exactly your data is stored or processed. This increases the risks that can arise in the process of implementation or management of the cloud.
There have been several cases of data breaches, hacked interfaces, compromised credentials, hijacked accounts and so much more. All these make it difficult for some to entrust sensitive data to a third party.
Luckily, security capabilities are constantly improving for both cloud providers and users. Verify that the SaaS provider has put in place secure user identity management, authentication, and success control mechanisms to ensure the privacy and security of your organization’s files.
Data Availability
The only way to access files stored in the cloud is through the internet. When the user or the provider faces any problems with an internet connection, automatically, access to data stored in the cloud will be disconnected.
This poses a big obstacle, especially in developing countries and remote areas without a steady internet connection. It is also a problem faced by a public cloud, where everyone has access to the same server, increasing the risk of attack.
Confirm with your cloud provider what controls are put in place to ensure a reliable internet connection.
Compliance
When considering the physical location of the chosen data centre, compliance with national laws and regulations should be considered. This is of utmost importance because data hosted on cloud infrastructure is subject to the laws and regulations of the country where the data is stored.
Users need to ensure that cloud vendors can provide compliance and that they are regulated by the necessary standards. Some vendors can offer certificates as evidence of compliance, but in some cases, both users and providers need to ensure there are proper compliance regulations.
Cost Management
Cloud computing can save businesses money. When an organization stores data in the cloud, it can easily ramp up its processing capabilities without needing to spend money investing in new hardware.
However, it can be difficult sometimes to define and predict quantities and costs based on the on-demand and scalable nature of cloud security services. Adjusting the platform to suit the company’s needs can be expensive and transferring data to public clouds can be a costly problem for projects that are short-lived and small-scale.
While cloud computing has its challenges, its advantages cannot be denied. If properly addressed cloud computing is an extraordinary system that is improving from time to time.
The main step to overcoming the shortcomings in cloud computing is finding service providers who are ready to meet your business needs and ensure your server’s security.
