Security is better in the cloud

It’s usually one of the first questions we get asked when we talk about the advantages of the cloud: “Is the cloud secure?” The questions take other forms. “Will someone steal my data?” “Am I more likely to get hacked?”

When asked, we point out the reasons that cloud computing is actually more secure:

• Your applications and data aren’t sitting in an unattended server room
• Encryption is difficult to fully implement on your own – service providers do it
• Cloud service providers use state-of-the-art security systems
• Software updates are routinely done by service providers – out of date software is one of the biggest risks
• Controlling copies is a lot easier

Microsoft has just released a survey of small and midsized business that reinforces these points. The survey shows that businesses using the cloud spend noticeably less time and money worrying about security then they did prior to the move.

The study shows that 35 percent of U.S. companies surveyed have experienced noticeably higher levels of security since moving to the cloud. In addition, 32 percent say they spend less time worrying about the threat of cyberattacks. U.S. SMBs using the cloud also spend 32 percent less time each week managing security than companies not using the cloud. They are also five times more likely to have reduced what they spend on managing security as a percentage of overall IT budget.

The press releas is here: Cloud Computing Security Benefits Dispel Adoption Barrier for Small to Midsize Businesses