Cloud computing has become the next big thing in computing, but the cloud needs to be navigated carefully. While it can provide innovative advantages to the modern business, there are challenges that this new technology presents, as well. It is important to keep your head as your business embraces cloud computing, and keep your information safe and secure.

This sharing of technological resources creates data security, privacy, and regulatory compliance concerns that can’t be ignored. Here are some things to consider:

Public vs. Private

Public clouds are hosted by third-party providers, while private clouds are implemented within a company’s corporate firewall. Private clouds provide their clients more control of their own enterprise and customer data, and are therefore more secure and better suited for regulatory compliance.

Knowing Your Requirements

Only after you have conducted a thorough review of your company’s security needs should you begin to seek out a cloud provider. What level of security does your business require for the information you will be sharing through a cloud? What requirements must be met to ensure your regulatory compliance?

Check underneath the hood

It is critical for an organization to carry out an in-depth evaluation of a cloud provider’s security systems and practices. What are their encryption capabilities? Review their data classification and protection policies and practices. Verify that they can meet your security and regulatory needs and requirements.

Go Mobile

One revolution can have an impact on another, as mobile devices must be accounted for by cloud providers in an effort to lock down all endpoints. Make sure both your company and your provider extend their cloud security controls to cover mobile devices.

Cloud computing is a revolutionary technology that can prove to be extremely advantageous to your business. Just be sure to keep your wits about you while your head (and your valuable data) is in the cloud.