The cloud enables you and your staff members to store and access data and applications over the Internet, as opposed to storing and accessing data and applications via your computer’s hard drive. As businesses around the world are using the cloud more than ever before, many business owners are wondering what it’s all about.

When it comes to the cloud, there’s a lot of concerns in terms of data privacy and security. Fortunately, Vertical IT is here to help you understand the cloud! To learn more, give us a call at (888) 505-8215 or send us an email at info@verticalitcorp.com.

Have you considered moving to the cloud but you’re feeling uncertain about a wide range of concerns? If you’re like most business owners, you’ve already considered the following concerns:

• Privacy – Will your data remain private when it’s stored, or is it being used for advertising and marketing purposes?
• Continuity – Will your data be recoverable in the event of a disaster at the data center? Does the cloud provider have continuity obligations?
• Security – Will your data be encrypted? Who will be able to access and use the encryption keys?
• Copyright – Will your data still be yours once it’s uploaded to the cloud? Does the provider have the right to sell or publish content?

Despite the growing popularity of cloud computing, these concerns are still significant and must be addressed before moving to the cloud. So let’s get started! First of all, you’re probably thinking, “What if my business can protect our data better than a cloud provider?” however, this isn’t always the case.

Consider all of the facts: cloud providers are often well trained, have backup systems and contingency plans in place, and have full-time staff members checking and maintaining their service on a regular basis. Would you be able to dedicate these resources to the protection of your data? Chances are, it wouldn’t be easy.

Fortunately, the cloud is a fairly safe place for your data to be stored, however, it’s up to you to take due diligence and select the right cloud provider for your unique business needs and security requirements. Now, if you’re looking to select the right cloud provider, here’s a few important questions to ask potential candidates:

1. Who has access to the data I’m storing in the cloud?

When you’re storing data in the cloud, it’s important to know who has access to that data, such as administrators. Often, administrators will have access, however, you can make sure there’s controls in place to prevent the copying, sending, or printing of your data.

2. What are the chances of data loss?

If you’re considering a cloud provider, make sure the cloud provider follows a comprehensive data-protection policy and undergoes regular audits, in order to ensure data loss is prevented and avoidable.

3. Where is your data center located and how safe is it?

The location of the data centers is incredibly important as different locations have different laws regarding data security. Make sure the data center is located in an area with laws you’re comfortable with, and make sure the data center has physical security measures in place.

4. Would I be able to switch cloud providers in the future?

Many business owners forget to ask this question, then wish they did once it’s too late. Make sure you’re able to switch cloud providers in the future, in the event that you’re unhappy with the service you’re receiving.

Still have concerns about the cloud? To learn more, or to schedule a no-obligation assessment of your cloud needs, give us a call at (888) 505-8215 or send us an email at info@verticalitcorp.com. Vertical IT is the leading cloud solution and managed IT services company in New England.