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Cloud Computing Threats Enhance the Need for Cloud Management Solutions

Cloud computing has grown significantly in the last few years, along with the ability of cloud computing vendors to provide better security. But there are still risks associated with doing business in the cloud, and users need to be familiar with the risks that can pose a threat to their operations.

Most companies take their processes to the cloud to save time and money, but it's not worth a dime if data is compromised and processes are hampered. The right approach to cloud management can give users the advantage in the fight to protect applications as well as the network supporting those applications. 

A recent development that has more people in the industry talking about cloud management solutions and security is the recent Dropbox (News - Alert) spam attack. According to this InfoWorld report, the attack was the result of an end-user's dropping the ball, so to speak. Public cloud storage users should consider cloud management solutions to give an added layer of security against such attacks.

In the case of the Dropbox security breach, an employee's account was compromised due to weak password security protocol, and the hacker was able to access more than he or she should have been able to get into. A huge security blunder is to use the same password for more than one administrative account is an Achilles heel in cloud management protocol. 

The positive takeaway to any breach is that the saying “once bitten, twice shy,” goes into effect, and companies tie up loose ends quickly. Proper cloud management procedures get a closer look, allowing everyone operates at a heightened alert.

In the case of Dropbox, the company's cloud management protocol now calls for two forms of proof of identity to get access to files. Users desire more visibility in how their data is being accessed, and Dropbox now allows them to monitor active log-ins. Anything that looks out of place will come to the attention of the appropriate people, and it is all automated, which helps take away the human error factor.

Just as cloud computing began its rise in popularity, so too did the proliferation of mobile devices. Workers became as mobile on the job as their personal devices would allow, thus adding another avenue of compromise to the security of company information.

Proper cloud management monitoring means not counting on a third party to guarantee the safety of the company's information; it means setting policies in-house that will put solid walls between prying eyes and sensitive company information, which could include financial information of thousands of clients.

The benefits associated with cloud computing ensure that its growth will continue, but threats must be mitigated. Corporate and user policies must be designed around cyber security education and the implementation of the proper cloud management to protect information and corporate networks. Without it, companies are truly just sitting ducks, waiting for the attack. It’s not a matter of “if,” but instead “when,” and all users must be prepared.

Want to learn more about cloud communications? Then be sure to attend the Cloud Communications Expo, collocated with ITEXPO West 2012 taking place Oct 2-5, in Austin, TX. The Cloud Communications Expo will address the growing need of businesses to integrate and leverage cloud based communications applications, process enhancement techniques, and network based communications interfaces and architectures. For more information on registering for the Cloud Communications Expo click here.

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Edited by Allison Boccamazzo

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