22 technology
Take the mystery out of cloud security
There is still a lot of concern over data security especially where the cloud is concerned. Are we right to still have such reservations? SIRE technology takes a closer look at three main points: Is the cloud secure? Where is the data? And is your password up to the job?
1 My data is more secure with me than in the cloud
Most cloud providers have more physical, environmental and logical security than most businesses. Having multiple feeds of networking and electrical power, uninterruptable power supplies (UPS) and generators will make sure the systems have a constant connection, power and air-conditioning to keep things cool. With 24-hour surveillance cameras and security patrols that secure the building, you will find that this is more physical security than is provided for your whole office, let alone just your data.
Firewalls provide the security from unwanted cyber visitors and remote site replication and data backups will ensure data is always available.*
2 If my data is in the cloud it could be anywhere?
This is where your own due diligence comes into play, it’s time to ask questions. Transparency is key.
It is completely acceptable to see something before you buy it. Good cloud providers will advocate honesty and complete transparency. If you would like further reassurance then a trip to one of the data centres will answer all your questions and ease any worries that you may have. You can then be sure of the security measures in place as promised by your provider, meet the data team and see how the whole system works. Looking back to point number one, this is where you will also be able to evaluate whether your data is safer with you or with a cloud services provider.
3 Surely access to the cloud is just a password away?
Apart from the cloud services provider and the data centres we can all do our own bit to help with security.
Recent research and password breaches show that the most common passwords:“123456“, “password“, “qwerty“ and “letmein“ are still in use. Even with the most secure back-end systems – a weak password will often enable an attacker to access your cloud. Not only are passwords tried online, but breaches of password databases allow an off-line brute-force and dictionary attacks to be attempted where standard safeguards such as account lockouts don’t apply.
And yes when it comes to passwords length is important, make sure your password is at least eight characters and contains an assortment of symbols avoiding the obvious o substituted for a zero as dictionary attacks often include this rule. When in doubt write it down, and be sure to store in a safe place.
When it comes to security of your data the main points are to establish an honest and transparent relationship with your cloud provider, carry out your own checks and regularly refresh your passwords. These are just some of the things that will help with keeping your data secure.
Details:
www.sire.co.uk
*Although it is best to check the SLA that the cloud provider offers.
www.businessmag.co.uk
business focus The Brayborne service is
Priding itself as a caring business, leading contract cleaning company Brayborne Facilities Services has some of the best conditions of employment for its staff in the industry, and has established an enviable reputation as an honest, caring and trusted partner for its customers.
“Supporting the communities in which we work is an integral part of our caring ethos,“ said Beverley Mason, business development manager at Brayborne.
one that truly cares Working closely to support the local communities in which they work is at the heart of Brayborne Facilities Services’ caring ethos
In the building next to Brayborne’s head office in Wokingham is an award-winning charity called Building for the Future. ’Our House’ is a place where disabled children and their families are able to meet, find support and information, access therapies, make friends and have fun. Brayborne sponsors the chill-out room.
Brayborne’s Lorraine Gibson (left) and Mairi Berryman (right) with Stephanie Wescombe of Against Breast Cancer
research; with organisations who fully embrace our vision for ’a future free of breast cancer’.“
Against Breast Cancer held its fundraising spinathon event in February at The Park Club, Milton Park in Abingdon, an event that was sponsored by Brayborne and attended by many companies from across the area. The charity’s main aims are to fundraise and raise awareness of its research (especially new projects with the University of Oxford); to meet corporates and individuals; to grow the support of the charity; and network among people who want to support the charity in its end goal of finding and developing a vaccine against breast cancer.
Brayborne also entered two teams into the Spinathon. “We had a great day,“ said Mason, “although we were put through our paces. We enjoyed working as a team and the atmosphere was amazing.“
Kelly Gibson, corporate fundraiser at Against Breast Cancer, commented: “Without generous companies like Brayborne Facilities Services sponsoring our events we wouldn’t be able to hold them. As a small charity we like to work with empathetic partners who help us create awareness and raise funds to continue our groundbreaking
One of the founders of Brayborne in 1986 was Simon Berryman, who passed away suddenly in 2011. In his memory, and to raise money for various local charities, an annual Golf Day is held in May at Bearwood Lakes Golf Club which is also sponsored by Brayborne.
“It is important for us to be actively involved in our local community,“ continued Mason. “We support at a corporate level but individual staff members also put time and energy into specific fundraising projects.
“We also take pride in going the extra mile for our customers to exceed expectations in the delivery of facilities services. We carry this through to our support and involvement with our local communities and by supporting our customers through active fundraising. This caring ethos is a core value for all aspects of our business.“
Details: Beverley Mason 0118-9789428
beverley.mason@
brayborne.co.uk www.brayborne.co.uk
THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE – SOLENT & SOUTH CENTRAL – APRIL 2015
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