
In this article, EVG Cloud presents five essential Cloud Server security practices that every business should know to operate confidently in today’s complex digital environment.
A firewall acts as a digital barrier, controlling and filtering data traffic to and from your Cloud Server. By setting specific rules, a firewall blocks unwanted connections, safeguarding the system from cyberattacks like DDoS or unauthorized intrusions.
Implementing a firewall is not overly complex but requires fine-tuning to match business needs. For example, an e-commerce company can configure its firewall to allow access only from trusted IP addresses while blocking connections from irrelevant geographic regions. Businesses should regularly update firewall rules to counter new threats. Many Cloud Server providers now integrate advanced firewall tools, making it easier for IT teams to manage and monitor security.
Data encryption is one of the most effective security measures, ensuring that business information remains secure even if stolen. Encrypted data is transformed into an unreadable format without the decryption key, which is critical for businesses storing sensitive information like customer data, financial records, or contracts.
Businesses can apply encryption at various levels, from data at rest to data in transit. For instance, using HTTPS for websites or applications on a Cloud Server encrypts data exchanged between users and the server, reducing the risk of interception. Some Cloud Server providers offer built-in encryption tools, but businesses should also consider independent encryption solutions for added security. Secure key management is equally important, as losing encryption keys can expose data to malicious actors.
A strong password alone is no longer sufficient to protect Cloud Servers from sophisticated attacks. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide at least two forms of identity verification, such as a password combined with an OTP (One-Time Password) sent via phone or an authentication app.
MFA is particularly critical for administrator accounts or employees with access to the Cloud Server. For example, a software company in Vietnam avoided significant losses when hackers attempted to log in with stolen credentials but failed to bypass OTP verification. To implement MFA effectively, businesses should choose user-friendly solutions to avoid disrupting workflows and train employees on the importance of protecting authentication credentials.
Despite robust security measures, businesses still face risks of data loss due to system errors, ransomware, or human mistakes. Regular backups ensure critical data is stored securely and can be restored when needed.
When setting up backups, businesses should determine a frequency that aligns with data volume and importance. For instance, a financial company may require daily backups, while a small retail business may need weekly backups. Backup data should be stored in a separate location, ideally on another Cloud Server or offline system, to avoid being compromised. Key considerations include:
Automated Backups: Many Cloud Server providers offer automated backup tools to minimize management efforts.
Restore Testing: Regularly test data restoration to ensure the system functions correctly.
Encrypted Backups: Backups should be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access.
Think of backups as an insurance policy: you hope never to need them, but they can save your business in worst-case scenarios.
Not all threats come from external sources. Employee errors or unauthorized internal access can lead to serious consequences. Role-Based Access Control ensures that only necessary personnel can access critical resources on the Cloud Server.
The principle here is the “least privilege” approach. For example, a marketing employee doesn’t need access to customer databases, while the IT team may only require administrative rights for specific areas. Businesses should use Identity and Access Management (IAM) tools to define clear roles and permissions. Additionally, monitoring and logging access activities help detect suspicious behavior early. A logistics company in Ho Chi Minh City, for instance, identified a former employee attempting unauthorized access to its Cloud Server through access logs, preventing a potential data breach.
The effectiveness of these security measures is amplified when partnering with a trusted Cloud Server provider. A reliable provider not only offers robust infrastructure but also ensures comprehensive security through international certifications like ISO 27001, SOC 2, or GDPR compliance. They often integrate advanced security tools, enabling businesses to deploy firewalls, encryption, or backups without significant investment in proprietary infrastructure.
When selecting a provider, consider:
24/7 Technical Support: Ensures IT teams receive timely assistance during incidents.
Transparent Security Policies: Providers should clearly outline how they protect customer data.
Scalability: The cloud infrastructure should be flexible to meet business growth demands.
Local providers like EVG Cloud offer high-performance Cloud Servers with integrated security packages tailored for SMEs in Vietnam.
Securing a Cloud Server is not an impossible task but requires careful attention and investment. By implementing these five practices, businesses can build a secure system, minimize risks, and focus on growth. Partnering with a reputable Cloud Server provider is the foundation for maximizing the effectiveness of these security measures.