Cloud storage has transformed how businesses store and manage data. Today, 60% of global business data is stored in the cloud, and almost every company subscribes to some form of cloud storage.
Given its widespread use, it’s crucial for businesses to safeguard their cloud-stored data with strong cyber security solutions. But since cloud data isn’t stored on local hard drives, many people ask: can cloud data be encrypted the same way local data can?
If you’re considering cloud storage solutions for your business but have security concerns, this blog is for you.
At Netcentrix, we specialise in cloud storage for businesses and have helped many enterprises improve their data storage capabilities. Keep reading to get peace of mind, or speak to a Netcentrix specialist today about our cloud options.
Is Cloud Storage Encryption Available?
The short answer: yes.
Cloud data can absolutely be encrypted, providing a high level of security. This is especially important for business cloud storage, where sensitive company and customer data must be protected.
While free cloud storage may offer basic security, it usually doesn’t compare to the robust encryption offered by trusted cloud providers like Netcentrix.
What is Encryption in Cyber Security?
Encryption is the process of converting data into a format that is unreadable to anyone without the correct decryption key. In its unencrypted state, data in the cloud appears just as it was saved. But when encrypted, it appears as a jumble of random letters, numbers, and symbols to anyone who doesn’t have the decryption key.
If a hacker were to breach the network and steal encrypted data, they would be unable to use it without the appropriate key.
There are several types of encryption designed to protect data at different stages. No matter how data is being transferred or handled within the cloud, it remains secure with the proper encryption.
Types of Cloud Storage Encryption
While there are various types of encryption methods, such as symmetric and asymmetric encryption, there are three key types that are particularly relevant to cloud storage:
- Encryption at Rest
This protects data that is stored on physical devices (e.g. hard drives, servers) or in the cloud while it is not being accessed or moved. Since most data is stored in this “at rest” state, this encryption is essential for securing cloud-stored information.
- Encryption In-Transit
This type of encryption scrambles data as it moves between two points, such as when it’s being transferred over the internet. This ensures that if someone intercepts the data during transmission, they cannot read it. Once the data reaches its destination, it’s unscrambled and can be accessed as intended. This is particularly important for cloud storage, as data can be accessed from virtually any location by authorised users.
- End-To-End Encryption (E2EE)
While similar to encryption-in-transit, E2EE encrypts data from the moment it leaves the original device or storage location. Only the intended recipient, who holds the decryption key, can access the data. Even network service providers can’t read the data, making this a preferred choice for confidentiality-sensitive communications. It’s become widely known through apps like WhatsApp and Messenger.
Why Do Businesses Need Encrypted Storage?
With cyber attacks becoming more frequent and increasingly sophisticated, it’s essential for businesses to protect their data using the most robust security measures available. Encryption is a key part of this defence.
Over 50% of UK businesses have experienced cyber attacks or successful data breaches, 2024 Cyber Security Breaches Survey. With so much business data now stored in the cloud, the need for strong cyber security solutions to safeguard this data is greater than ever.
Encryption isn’t just about protecting data from cyber criminals, it’s also a legal requirement. Regulations like GDPR mandate that businesses protect sensitive data. Failing to comply can result in hefty fines and legal consequences, making cloud encryption an absolute necessity for businesses of all sizes.
Discover Cloud Storage and Cloud Encryption Services from Netcentrix
If you’re looking to invest in cloud storage solutions for your business, or if you’re unhappy with the encryption provided by your current provider, Netcentrix is here to help.
With decades of combined experience in cloud computing and cyber security, we’re the ideal partner to help you adopt effective cloud storage and security solutions. As an approved Microsoft Partner, you can trust us to provide the latest and most effective products and services to keep your business and client data secure.
To find out more, speak to a Netcentrix specialist today.
