According to data from infrastructure experts Thales Group, over 60% of global corporate data is currently stored in the cloud.
This marks a significant shift from the days when 100% of such data was stored on on-site hard drives and servers, highlighting the rapid pace at which cloud storage has been adopted globally.
But for all its benefits, some still raise concerns about the safety of cloud storage.
Fortunately, in an era where advanced cyber security and technology are continuously evolving, cloud storage remains one of the safest, most affordable, and most accessible forms of data storage for businesses of all sizes.
At Netcentrix, we specialise in cloud storage for businesses, helping enterprises store their data securely, safely, and without limitations.
Speak to a Netcentrix specialist today about our cloud storage services, or continue reading to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of cloud technology.
What is cloud storage?
Cloud storage is online storage space that allows you to store data on external hard drives or servers located in dedicated data centres, managed by third-party cloud storage providers such as Microsoft or Google. This data is accessible via the internet.
This technology frees up space on in-house hard drives and servers, while also reducing the strain on IT systems when integrated with cloud computing.
Since it is accessible via the internet, cloud storage systems make file sharing faster and more secure compared to local storage, enabling both on-site staff and remote or hybrid workers to access files across multiple devices.
While some providers offer free cloud storage, this is rarely sufficient for data-heavy businesses with advanced needs. These businesses typically require hundreds of gigabytes, terabytes of space, or even unlimited storage.
Cloud computing, the process in which applications, programs, and entire systems are hosted remotely in the same way as cloud storage, has become a common business practice.
Advantages of Cloud Storage
Cost-effective
Despite often involving a monthly subscription fee, cloud storage is generally more cost-effective than traditional on-site storage.
This is because there are no costs associated with hardware.
Hard drives, pen drives, solid-state drives, and servers can be expensive individually. However, when purchased in large quantities to meet the needs of growing businesses, they can amount to a substantial sum.
In contrast, cloud storage can offer all the storage a business needs for one low monthly fee, making data management easier and more secure while providing constant, unrestricted access.
On-site data centres can also be costly to maintain and repair if something goes wrong. However, with cloud storage from a third-party provider, this responsibility falls to the provider, saving businesses from unnecessary expenses.
Accessibility
As remote and hybrid working becomes the norm, many businesses have prioritised systems that allow employees to work away from the office.
Traditionally, this would have been nearly impossible, as the tools and files an employee needed to perform their role effectively were stored permanently on hard drives at company headquarters.
Thanks to cloud storage and cloud computing, however, remote and hybrid workers can now access all the tools and files they need to perform their jobs, without needing to travel to the office – as long as they have a stable internet connection.
This gives off-site workers the same capabilities as office-based colleagues, combined with the added benefits of a more flexible and convenient working environment.
Furthermore, businesses that support remote and hybrid work through cloud storage and computing are often seen as more attractive to potential new recruits.
Security
Given that cloud-stored data is accessed via the internet, security concerns naturally arise.
However, cloud storage and computing platforms provided by reputable third-party providers are regarded as some of the most secure data storage solutions available today.
According to the Thales data mentioned earlier, more than half of all cloud breaches in 2023 were due to human error, rather than cyber attackers successfully breaching security systems.
This underscores the importance of effective cloud security training for employees and highlights the strength of cloud security measures already in place.
With features such as encryption and multi-factor authentication (MFA), businesses can rely on cloud storage and professional providers like Netcentrix to keep their data secure.
Disadvantages of Cloud Storage
Account Compromise
Unlike traditional hard drives, cloud storage can be accessed remotely. This means that if an unauthorised individual were to discover the correct username and password, they could potentially access the data stored within.
However, there are multiple safeguards in place to prevent unauthorised access.
For instance, multi-factor authentication requires users to confirm their identity through a pre-approved secondary account or device, which cyber criminals would not have access to.
Additionally, cloud systems can block login attempts from unusual locations by analysing the user’s IP address, preventing unauthorised access even with correct login details.
Unintentional Sharing
As mentioned earlier, human error is responsible for the majority of cloud storage breaches. One common way this occurs is through phishing scams.
Phishing is when cyber criminals impersonate a colleague or superior to trick an employee into providing sensitive information, such as login details, or clicking on a malicious link, which can result in unauthorised access to cloud storage.
However, with comprehensive employee cyber security training and the tools mentioned above, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of such breaches, keeping cloud data secure at all times.
Insufficient Data Encryption
Data encryption is the process of scrambling data to make it unreadable to anyone other than the intended recipient.
This means that even if a hacker were to breach a network and access sensitive information stored in the cloud, the data would be useless to them. End-to-end (E2E) encryption is also used when data is in transit between two points, should a hacker attempt to access it while it’s moving across the internet.
Unfortunately, insufficient or outdated encryption can make data vulnerable to cyber criminals seeking to exploit weak security measures.
However, by working with a trusted cyber security expert and cloud provider, such as Netcentrix, businesses can ensure their data remains protected through the use of the latest, most robust security tools and protocols.
Choosing the Right Cloud Storage Provider
When selecting a cloud storage provider, it’s crucial to consider factors beyond just storage capacity. Here are a few key things to look for:
- Security Features: Make sure the provider offers robust encryption (both at rest and in transit) and multi-factor authentication to safeguard your data.
- Compliance: For businesses operating in regulated industries, ensure that the provider complies with relevant regulations, such as GDPR in the UK.
- Scalability: As your business grows, your storage needs will change. Choose a provider that offers flexible plans to scale with your business, allowing for seamless upgrades as required.
- Customer Support: Ensure the provider offers 24/7 support in case of technical difficulties or emergencies. Fast response times are essential for business continuity.
Choosing the Right Storage Solution for Your Business: A Comparison
When it comes to storing your data, it’s important to consider different solutions that can best serve your business needs. Each type of storage offers distinct advantages and disadvantages based on factors like cost, security, and accessibility. In this comparison table, we look at Cloud Storage, External Hard Drives, Network-Attached Storage (NAS), and Hybrid Storage to help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Cloud Storage is ideal for businesses looking for scalable, secure, and accessible storage that requires minimal maintenance. It’s particularly useful for remote work and businesses needing flexible, cost-effective solutions.
- External Hard Drives are suitable for personal or small-scale storage needs but can be limiting in terms of capacity and security.
- NAS offers secure, local network storage, perfect for businesses needing to share files over a network. However, it requires more setup and maintenance.
- Hybrid Storage combines the benefits of cloud and local storage, providing both on-site speed and off-site scalability. This solution is ideal for businesses that need flexibility, secure backup, and disaster recovery.
How To Use Cloud Storage Effectively
To fully benefit from cloud storage and ensure your data remains secure, it’s crucial to utilise the right cyber security tools and protocols.
At Netcentrix, we are experts in implementing these tools and helping businesses of all sizes keep their cloud environments secure.
This includes autonomous cloud monitoring, which continuously analyses your systems and network for potential threats, alerting you to any anomalies and neutralising them before they can cause harm.
Read more about our cyber security services here, or speak to a member of our Netcentrix team for tailored advice.
Maximise the Benefits of Cloud Storage with Netcentrix
Whether you are moving to the cloud for the first time or looking to improve your current cloud storage system, Netcentrix is here to help.
Our cloud specialists will analyse your existing systems and recommend the most beneficial cloud solutions, ensuring you never pay for more storage than you need.
We can also advise on additional cloud-related solutions, such as disaster recovery and hybrid cloud systems, should you be interested.
Plus, with round-the-clock support available on request, you’ll always have someone on hand should any technical issues arise.
To find out more about how Netcentrix can enhance your cloud services, speak to one of our specialists today.
