Despite security concerns, cloud growing in government
24 June 2011 15:58:48
A new study from defense contractor Lockheed Martin found that while many federal agencies are deploying cloud computing services, some are still concerned with the data security implications of the technology.
In a survey of government IT decision-makers, two-thirds identified security as a key factor to their evaluations and deployment of the cloud. Of those surveyed, one-third of respondents said they wouldn't consider moving mission-critical data or financial management systems to the cloud.
In addition to security, the study also found that agencies harbor concerns about availability, dependability, and compatibility with existing IT solutions. However, despite these concerns, the study found that the percentage of agencies considering the cloud has grown from 12 percent to 50 percent in the last year.
"The government is making strides in transitioning to the cloud and we believe an intelligence driven cyber security approach, and asking the penetrating questions regarding cloud governance, availability and reliability are key to prudent adoption," said Lockheed Martin vice president of cyber security Curt Aubley.
As cloud adoption continues to grow in government, a similar trend is occurring in the public sector as well. According to a report from Forrester Research, the global cloud market is expected to reach $241 billion by 2020.
-McAfee Cloud Security
