The digital era is driving the migration to cloud environments like never before. Consultancy firm Gartner predicts that global spending on public cloud will grow by 20% in 2024. The benefits for organisations are extensive: scalability, efficiency, flexibility, and cost reduction, among many others.
However, data security remains one of the major concerns for those embarking on the path of technological modernisation.
Why? Because the cloud still evokes fears and myths regarding privacy and information security. Many believe that data is at a higher risk of exposure to cyber-attacks, and that it becomes easier to lose control over it.
Distinguishing myths from truths is essential for organisations to make informed decisions when considering cloud migration.
Sure Steps
Currently, the vast majority of data centres managing clouds exhibit high performance and adhere to robust information security standards. Nonetheless, it is advisable for organisations embarking on a cloud computing project to continue handling their data protection.
The first step is to implement a robust security architecture from the inception of the migration project, incorporating necessary security standards and industry best practices, combining technology, processes, and people.
What should an adequate cloud security architecture include?
Data encryption is fundamental to protect both "at rest" and "in transit" information, ensuring potential attackers cannot access the system without the appropriate encryption keys. The use of multifactor authentication devices further reinforces data security.
Another crucial element is access controls, allowing the assignment of different permission levels and ensuring that only authorised personnel access specific resources and data.
Continuous monitoring is another vital tool to guarantee information protection, leveraging real-time security monitoring solutions that enable swift responses to suspicious activities.
It is also advisable for organisations to regularly schedule attack simulations to identify potential vulnerabilities in the security architecture.
Employee training is another crucial aspect. The key is to provide the workforce with the necessary tools to be aware of the dangers their digital activities may pose and to be alert to possible traps or phishing attempts.
According to cybersecurity specialist José Miguel Lavín Donoso, employee training is a decisive aspect. "In general, the user is the primary, intentional or unintentional, responsible party for a breach within an organisation. So, if we have a robust user who knows how to defend themselves, there will be more security within the companies," asserts the expert.
Technology, the Best Ally
The advent of artificial intelligence has brought about a qualitative leap in information security. Its technological versatility has become indispensable for combating the increasing sophistication of cyber-attacks. It enables the analysis of vast amounts of data, identifying threats that might go unnoticed by humans.
It is also highly effective in real-time blocking of cybercriminal threats and, through predictive techniques, can anticipate the next variants of malware and other potential attack vectors.
Organisations are aware that, to implement their data protection strategies, it is fundamental to rely on technology.
Presently, there are specific solutions for these challenges, such as SAP S/4HANA Cloud, public edition, which stands out for its focus on security. It is a cloud-ready ERP that provides the latest industry best practices and continuous innovation.
Unlike other solutions on the market, SAP S/4HANA Cloud, public edition, manages technical operations, including backup and disaster recovery, system maintenance, data protection, and the best uptimes to ensure customers feel calm and secure.
A Path of Opportunities
The latest market signals are positive. According to the 2024 Genetec report, cybersecurity risks rank sixth among the factors dissuading companies from adopting cloud-based security systems, while in last year's report, they held the top position.
However, challenges for cloud data security remain enormous. Companies must prepare, prioritising their information protection strategies.
Continuous awareness, specialised training, and the implementation of best security practices are essential for organisations to carry out their digital transformation smoothly.
About United VARs
United VARs is a global alliance of SAP implementation partners and solution providers for the mid-market. With over 70 members in 100 countries, the alliance serves all types of SAP rollouts and integrations across the world. The organization provides businesses with local expertise ‘on the ground’ charged at local rates. All United VARs members work together as one team to provide a more personalized service than other global systems integrators can, and one that is better suited to mid-market budgets.
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