For small and mid-sized businesses, being able to move specific IT processes to the cloud is appealing—because the cloud enables easier scalability of IT services on an as-needed basis. It also reduces both the complexity and the manpower needed to operate and maintain core infrastructure.
While the cloud provides many benefits, the technology can potentially undermine your IT security efforts. Keep these tips top of mind to ensure your business and data remain protected.
Managing cybersecurity in the cloud
As you consider a move to the cloud, evaluate the impact it will have on the wider security of your IT infrastructure. Start by auditing your IT security capacity, as moving to cloud-based services can result in some additional IT infrastructure demands.
Part of this audit should include reviewing processes and tools that can enable IT admins to manage security more efficiently company-wide. The ESET Cloud Administrator platform allows IT admins to easily check devices, apply updates, review the status of the network and remotely install endpoint security on a diverse mixture of devices.
Credentials
Be sure to review the credentials of your chosen provider to understand what you’re getting. Does the provider have a solid background in security? Can they answer your questions about cloud security?
Also, look at whether or not the company has made a transparent commitment to cybersecurity, and check for a history of competent management. As a rule, you get what you pay for. You want to know that your provider has invested sufficiently into expertise, quality hardware and security.
Encryption
You should encrypt as much of your cloud data and traffic as possible. This adds a layer of complexity but is well worth the effort.
Why? Because putting your data and/or processing in the cloud means it is one step removed from your physical control. Since your cloud content can include valuable intellectual property and sensitive information, encrypting this content keeps it out of the wrong hands if a breach occurs.
Implement two-factor authentication (2FA)
Your cloud provider may promise to look after your data, but you should still restrict access. Limit access to specific individuals on an as-needed basis rather than leaving the connection open for everyone to use. Better yet, consider implementing two-factor authentication rather than merely relying on passwords.
As an SMB, managing endpoint security via the cloud offers a lot in terms of usability and scalability, but it’s critical that your IT security admins retain strict control over access. That’s why the login to ESET Cloud Administrator can be protected by 2FA.
Try ESET for free
ESET’s endpoint protection products are highly rated for their low system impact (light footprint), cost effectiveness and high detection rates. See for yourself: Get a free, 30-day trial of ESET Endpoint Protection Advanced Cloud.