Data access control crucial in the cloud
29 June 2011 14:06:19
Though the cloud has proven to be an effective tool for companies looking to enhance productivity while also keeping IT spending in line, many businesses worry about the technology's ability to store critical data safely. According to one expert, businesses can mitigate these concerns by implementing data access control strategies with their cloud deployments.
Writing for IndustryWeek, Cloud Security Alliance member Dave Elliott acknowledged that the cloud presents a number of security challenges for businesses. Particularly as cyber criminals become more strategic and attacks more sophisticated, businesses may have trouble keeping information on the cloud safe.
However, by integrating access control and other solutions, such as Security-as-a-Service, into data security strategies, businesses can minimize the risks associated with the cloud. While there is no way to guarantee protection, these steps should allay some fears of vulnerability.
"You should limit user privileges, including the privileges of your administrators. Rogue admins are a big source of security breaches in the cloud, just as they are in traditional computing," Elliott wrote.
Even as security concerns prevail, many experts have noted that the cloud is no less secure than most traditional IT solutions. In fact, Security-as-a-Service and other security measures can bolster a company's data protection even further.
-McAfee Cloud Security
