Data Recovery and Cloud Hosting

Recovering data in a cloud environment may be new to those who have recently made the switch to cloud computing.  Because more and more organizations are migrating to the cloud, it is important to understand how to recover data in an event that any data is lost due to a security incident.  There are a number of methods to go about recovering data, and understanding each method is the first step in knowing what to do in case you have a security problem.  Below are three methods of data recovering as it pertains to cloud hosting.

Replication

Replicating data is one of the simplest and most relied on form of backing up data.  When you replicate data, you are simply placing your data on another system.  Doing this will give you backup data should anything be lost on one system.  Although this is one of the most popular methods of backing up data, it doesn’t necessarily translate to 100% of your data being able to be recovered.  Some data may be lost.  Talk to a cloud computing professional about what you can do to protect yourself using this particular method.

                                         

Outsourcing

Many organizations will elect to outsource their disaster recovery to a managed service provider.  There is obviously a cost associated with this method, but managed service providers are equipped to handle data recovery.  There is a great peace of mind knowing your data can be recovered from professionals that focus primarily on this task.  If you make the decision to go this route, make certain you understand the timeframe it generally takes to recover data from the managed service provider you are considering. 

Restore from Backup

There is an automated process of backing up data to the cloud that can be taken advantage of.  This particular method is relatively safe and inexpensive, but backing up the data can take hours depending on what was lost.  If you consider this method, talk to a cloud computing expert about the differences between interval backups and synced backups.  Each is different types of backup solutions with pros and cons to consider.

Regardless of what method you choose any route you decide to take a wise choice.  You want to make sure you backup your data and understanding what your options are is a great first step at making the right decision for your business. 

Maintaining a Safe Cloud Computing Environment

One of the most popular misconceptions about cloud computing is that data on the cloud is not safe and secure.  Although no storage data is 100% safe, regardless of platform being used, cloud computing has proven to be just as effective, if not more, than traditional hosting when it comes to security.  As long as there are people making every attempt to hack into systems to obtain information, there will always be a focus on security, rightfully so.  If you are considering using the cloud to store your data, we provide a handful of tips for maintaining a safe cloud environment.

Use Email Wisely

Email is a fantastic tool to communicate, but it is also a focal point for those looking to hack into systems and obtain sensitive information.  If you need to relay a username and/or password to another person, avoid using email.  Simply call the person and let them know what that information is.  Emailing sensitive information out such as usernames and passwords is a great way to have your information compromised.

Be Clever

You would be surprised just how many people choose “password” as their security password.  Be clever when it comes to accessing your information.  Create passwords that are unique.  Also, when it comes to security questions and answers, think outside of the box.  Don’t answer the question of “what is your favorite color?” with “blue”.  Instead, use another name such as “football”.  An unrelated response can tighten your security measures considerably.

Be Aware

A simple way for someone to steal your information is to simply look over your shoulder.  If you are logging in from a remote location, be aware of what and who is around you.  Avoid any high traffic areas and try to do work with your back against a wall.  This can help reduce the chances of your information being stolen.

Cloud computing is safe and reliable.  However you want to make sure you don’t leave yourself open to having your data stolen and following the tips above will help.  Before you make any computing decision, be sure to do your research and understand the facts, especially when it comes to cloud computing.