Why Managed Cloud Security Should Be Part of Your Security Strategy

Instead of investing in costly infrastructure upgrades that are difficult to secure, more and more organizations are transitioning to cloud services Fifty-eight percent of IT leaders cite security as one of the top reasons for their transition to the cloud.

However, that doesn’t mean IT leaders can walk away and trust that their data is safe. Cloud security is a shared responsibility, especially in a multi-cloud environment or hybrid cloud deployment where security must be managed across multiple platforms.

If security is a high priority for your organization, leaning on your internal team and cloud provider to manage all endpoints, attack vectors, and cloud deployments may not be enough. An extra layer of protection with cloud managed security services ensures your data stays safe in this ever-broadening threat environment.

What is Managed Cloud Security?

Managed cloud security is a third-party security service that helps you lock down your company’s cloud-based infrastructure and applications. Cloud security managed services include anti-virus, firewall management, intrusion detection and monitoring and testing for vulnerabilities.

What are the Different Types of Cloud Security?

For businesses with a variety of cloud platforms and configurations, a few basic security services are essential for a minimum level of protection.

• Identity and Access Management (IAM)— Ensures each user has the correct access (and lack of access) to your organization’s assets. User identity is validated using passwords, single sign-on and multi-factor authentication.
• Network and Device Security— Puts barriers such as encryption and VPNs between the user and the data in contained environments.
• Security Monitoring/Alerting— Notifies you of unusual activity and potential breaches. These systems can be automated but should be monitored by security personnel.
• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Planning— A documented plan with steps to take before and after a breach. The plan should spell out data redundancy tactics and recovery steps.

5 Reasons to Invest in Managed Cloud Security

Though your cloud provider may have a standard cloud security package, here are five reasons why you should be prepared to fill in any security gaps with your own cloud security managed service.

1.   Strengthen your security posture.

A managed cloud security provider has specialized expertise, advanced security technologies and the staff to continuously monitor your cloud environment without interruption. Accidental misconfigurations are one of the most common cybersecurity risks and happen most often in cloud environments. A vulnerability assessment conducted by a skilled cloud security provider can uncover misconfigurations and other vulnerabilities which will strengthen your organization’s overall security posture.

2.   Address cybersecurity skill and talent shortages.

Hundreds of thousands of IT security positions go unfilled each year due to a shortage of skilled professionals. Hiring your own staff can be a nearly impossible—and undoubtedly expensive—task. Working with a third-party provider ensures you have experienced security experts monitoring your environment at all times, without the hassle of employee turnover, recruiting, rehiring and training.

3.   Respond quickly to threats.

A dedicated security team can provide real-time monitoring and incident response, identify and contain threats and remediate the damage to reduce downtime and minimize data loss.

4.   Focus on your core competencies.

Cybersecurity diverts time and resources away from your core business activities. When you outsource to experts, you get top-of-the-line security monitoring and technology while gaining the time you need to handle the highest, most strategic security priorities.

5.   Improving compliance.

Many organizations face regulatory requirements that are non-negotiable. These expectations are much easier to meet with a cloud managed security service provider that can continuously monitor and report on your organization’s compliance with local, federal, and international law. This ensures your organization meets its obligations according to industry standards and regulatory guidelines and helps you avoid penalties due to noncompliance.

Engage a Strong Cloud Security Partner

Investing in managed cloud security gives you a full team of security experts on your side to monitor and mitigate attacks. With this proactive approach, you’ll have fewer security incidents, experience less downtime and can always rest assured that you’re in compliance.

Leveraging the expertise of managed cloud security providers like the team at OneNeck IT Services leaves you free to focus on your core business activities while the experts ensure a robust defense against ever-evolving threats. With OneNeck’s help, you can reap the benefits of cloud flexibility and scalability without compromising security.

Ready to learn more? Read about OneNeck’s cloud security solutions.

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