One concern that some people who want to undertake cloud computing have data security. While this is a valid concern, it shouldn’t stop you from undertaking cloud computing. Although, in the past, data security was a concern in the cloud computing industry, with new advancements in the field, it’s become a cinch for businesses to handle.

Most cloud computing stakeholders agree that data security in the cloud is now considered more advanced and better than that of corporate networks.

Whether or not your data is secure in the cloud is a moot issue. What matters is the cloud computing provider that you are using. Cloud computing providers will implement data protection measures such as the following. They will:

• Allow users to define the permissions attached to their data
• Provide encryption to protect against unauthorized access to stored data
• Offer data protection when it is in transit
• Provide firewalls to protect against outside data attack that are launched against the cloud
• Reinforce servers to protect against every imaginable threat

Number of Cloud Users Grows

Because of the increased security that is associated with cloud computing, more and more people are beginning to use cloud services. This growth proves the growing recognition of strong data security measures that can be used in cloud computing.

In the past, it used to be that only the select few felt secure enough to use cloud services. With an increase in more cloud computing providers willing to go overboard to provide secure datacenters, more people are comfortable in the cloud.

Common Data Security Concerns

Any business that incorporates any one of the 3 major cloud computing models will have data security concerns. This is why some major companies that need more than air-tight security measures will either opt for in-premise solutions or private cloud services.

One of the major Security concerns when it comes to cloud data security is identity protection. Identity protection encompasses keeping an organization’s access management, user identification and entitlements safe and secure.

All organizations are looking to keep this information out of the public eye. So, these organizations will gravitate towards a cloud provider who promises the security of their identity.

It’s also important for businesses to secure user activity and threat intelligence. It’s not common for an organization or business to want to prevent outsiders from gaining access or insight into their activities. Most of all, every organization is looking for a cloud services provider who will be able to keep all their data and applications secure.

The good news is that as cloud computing grows, security measures become more sophisticated. This means that today, your data is more secure than it would have been a few years back. It is, however, important to understand that you do have a responsibility for the security of your data.

It is up to you as an organization to come up with a risk assessment for your data security needs. This is the only way you can select a cloud service provider that will meet your data security standards.

“Cloud Computing is similar to taking your jewelry from your sock drawer and placing it in the bank”- Eran Feiganbaum, Google Apps Director of Security

Do you think you are getting adequate data protection from your cloud service provider? Share your thoughts with us.