How the Cloud Is Changing the Way We Work
The bring-your-own-device (BYOD) movement has proven itself to be a huge security challenge for enterprises and small to midsize businesses (SMBs) alike. However, because SMBs often lack dedicated or in-depth IT staff, they may not truly realize the risks until it’s too late.
Employees who bring in their own smartphones, tablets or other devices and connect them to the company networks often also use their own cloud-based file-sharing to upload and download work-related documents (especially when one hasn’t been provided at work). Without IT to regulate, much less know about, such usage, the employee could be opening up the business’ networks to viruses, Trojans or malware, not to mention the trouble of lost data should an employee’s device be stolen or compromised.
Some SMBs are looking to virtual desktops and other software and apps to help provide access to projects and files. Teradici PCoIP software is one such software solution that is available for Dell Precision customers. Another solution is the OneSpace unified workspace app provided by NComputing that works with its DaaS offering.
For those SMBs that prefer on-site cloud solutions, Promise Technology offers another private cloud solution called FileCruiser that is deployed on-premise and provides secure, flexible access to users from both iOS and Android devices as well as from desktop PCs.
According to a recent release, James Lee, Promise Technology CEO, says that cloud technology may be what SMBs need to become efficient, but it also may open up security issues:
“Cloud storage is an enabler for innovation, collaboration and productivity. It provides a means for mobile access that keeps workers connected and contributing. This is one of the reasons we see the amount of data being stored in the cloud growing at such a rapid pace. However, we know that in a business setting, security continues to be a top concern.”
With FileCruiser we’re not only offering Dropbox-like services, but also building in enterprise level security in a platform that is designed to be deployed as a private cloud to deliver the highest level of protection.
FileCruiser provides easy-to-use cloud file storage like Dropbox, but with the added security of a private cloud platform. It can be managed locally and can be integrated with existing systems. It allows for encryption both during transfer of data and while in storage, and administrators can set up two-factor authentication and perform a remote wipe of company data to devices that are lost or stolen.
Promise Technology says that FileCruiser can handle large-sized data files and the company has plans for a whole lineup of cloud offerings aimed at the growing data storage needs of businesses. New products include a virtual SAN that should be available later this year.
Kim Mays has been editing and writing about IT since 1999. She currently tackles the topics of small to midsize business technology and introducing new tools for IT. Follow Kim on Google+ at google.com/+KimberlyMays6 or Twitter @blumoonky.
