Cloud Server Security

Cloud server security protects your online data from risks like loss, theft, errors, or cyber-attacks.

As threats grow more complex, it's important to stay informed. This article covers everything you need to know about securing your cloud server.

What Is a Cloud Server?

A cloud server is a virtual server that holds your website's files and lets you access your data from anywhere online.

Cloud web hosting is also called server on-demand or cluster server hosting.

What Is Cloud Security?

Cloud security is a series of technologies, controls, and policies designed to safeguard cloud infrastructure, data, and systems.

It ensures customer privacy, and regulatory compliance, and sets user and device access rules.

It also guards against data theft, prevents data leaks due to human errors, and allows data recovery if needed.

Cloud Server Security vs. Traditional Hosting Security

Traditional Hosting

Providers ensure server protection against malicious activities.

Customer information is kept confidential to prevent hacking.

Security measures includes virus and spam protection, plug-ins, and SSL certificates.

Automatic scanning for programs and viruses is standard.

Cloud Server Hosting

External software for delivery and data storage.

Cloud hosting solution are more advanced than traditional hosting.

Enhanced with monitoring systems.

Option to install web application firewalls.

Understanding Cloud Hosting: Security Features and Advantages

More than 90% of companies have seen an improvement in online security and easier handling of government rules after switching to the cloud.

Knowing cloud computing security and using the right tools helps you enjoy cloud hosting's benefits and avoid risks.

Backups

Cloud computing security offers:

• Automatic Data Backup: Multiple cloud servers for easy backups.

• Quick Disaster Recovery: Fast and efficient in emergencies.

• Traditional Hosting Limitation: Single server, complex backup preparations.

Encryption

Before moving your data to the cloud, it's changed and secured using data encryption.

Various hosting services like Google or Amazon offer different types of encryption methods.

Eliminating Hardware Issues

Cloud web server hosting ensures smooth operation and flexibility, letting you enhance performance without interrupting your service:

• No Hardware Issues: Avoid physical server problems.

• Seamless Upgrades: Add memory or make improvements effortlessly.

• No Downtime: Keep your website running smoothly during changes.

Access to Firewall Software

Cloud web hosting plans come with a built-in firewall that keeps your network safe and ensures secure access to your important data.

Confidentiality

Your data remains private and secure through advanced security measures, maintaining its confidentiality and integrity:

• Managed Firewall: Monitors network access requests.

• Encryption Protection: Keeps data confidential and safe from unauthorized access.

• Private Key Security: Ensures only authorized users can decrypt sensitive information.

Not Tied to a Single Physical Server

With cloud-based web hosting, your site stays up even if one server is compromised, as it is loaded from a different source and isolated from problems.

Data Integrity

Cloud security solutions safeguard your information more effectively than traditional single-server methods:

• Enhanced Protection: With the fastest cloud hosting, data is spread across many servers for safety.

• Dynamic Data Transfer: Moves between virtual spaces to avoid issues.

• Lower Risk: Less vulnerable to breaches and hacker attacks compared to single servers.

Compliance Standards

Earlier, we mentioned the necessary standards you need to comply with. Working with a cloud hosting provider connects you with certified experts familiar with these compliance requirements.

Security Risks in Cloud Hosting

Data Breaches

Failing to use two-factor authentication increases the risk of data breaches in cloud hosting, but this can be avoided by enhancing security measures.

Our cloud hosting solution at Verpex offers:

• Improved user authentication processes

• Two-factor authentication and implementation

• Enforcing the use of strong passwords

• Cloud Security Posture Management(CSPM)

DDoS attacks

DDoS attacks are difficult to stop; however, you can use security add-ons and solutions such as SiteLock and use your best effort to protect your site.

Data loss

To safeguard against unexpected data center outages, certain precautions are essential:

• Regularly back up data in multiple locations.

• Protect against natural and other unforeseen events.

• Ensure continuous access to your cloud provider’s web server data.

Insider Attacks

Insiders like staff and administrators from both the cloud providers and your organization can misuse their access.

They can steal or harm information because of their special access rights.

Accessibility

The only way to access cloud data computing is the Internet. If you don’t have an internet connection, you won’t be able to access it.

This can be an issue in remote areas that don’t have good internet access or in developing countries

Malware

Moving your data to an internet-connected environment exposes you to extra cyber threats:

• Malware scripts can infiltrate your cloud hosting, harming sensitive data.

• Security add-ons for your cloud server can be effective countermeasures.

Access control

Cloud hosting providers own and manage the infrastructure with limited customer control.

While you can't manage services and data on the cloud, it frees you from administrative tasks like updates and maintenance.

Regulatory Compliance Violation

The growing concern for data privacy has led to stricter industry standards and compliance regulations, requiring careful monitoring of data access and usage.

• Stricter regulations like PCI DSS, HIPAA, and GDPR are in response to growing data privacy concerns.

• Monitoring who accesses data and how they use it is crucial for compliance.

• Cloud security solutions involve widespread user access, making monitoring challenging without proper identity and access management controls.

User Behavior and Cloud Security Risks

Understanding how user behavior affects cloud security is crucial. Both deliberate and accidental actions can lead to security risks.

Take note of these:

• Password Habits: Strong, unique passwords are essential.

• Phishing Awareness: Knowing how to spot and respond to phishing attempts helps prevent breaches.

• Following Protocols: Consistently adhering to security guidelines protects data.

• Education: Teaching users about risks and safe practices reduces vulnerabilities.

Blockchain: Enhancing Cloud Security

Blockchain is revolutionizing cloud security by adding a layer of transparent, unchangeable protection.

This technology ensures safer data transactions and access, greatly reducing fraud and unauthorized use.

It boosts security by spreading data across multiple areas and requiring group approval for changes.

This integration with cloud services leads to safer, more efficient data management.

Cloud Hosting & IoT: Security Implications

Cloud hosting and the Internet of Things ( IoT) create a complex, data-rich network with heightened security needs:

1. Vast data exchanges increase attack vulnerability.

2. Expansive connectivity from IoT devices adds risks.

3. Robust encryption and access controls are vital.

4. Regular security updates are essential for protection.

Final Thoughts: Is Cloud Hosting Secure?

Cloud security hosting is safe and also a favored choice for protecting company data.

While there are some risks, they can be managed with ongoing security measures like firewalls, data encryption, and the latest hosting strategies, ensuring advanced protection for your data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cloud web hosting plan is best for me?

Get in touch with the team and we'll help you find the best plan for your needs. We never oversell and will always suggest a cloud web hosting plan that's right for you.

Will cloud hosted websites be backed up?

Yes, Verpex performs daily backups of all sites hosted.

Do I need technical knowledge to use cloud hosting?

Not necessarily. Under a fully managed hosting package Verpex will take care of all the technical aspects for you.

How can I assess the security level of my cloud server provider?

Check your provider's security policies, certifications, and audits. For a reliable option with strong security measures choose Verpex.

Can I use my encryption keys in cloud hosting?

Yes, many cloud hosts offer Bring Your Own Key (BYOK) services, allowing you to use your own encryption keys.

Check with your provider for setup details.