Secure ERP data
The topic of security plays an important role in discussions about the decision between on-premise and cloud solutions. We find that the on-premises solution is quite often seen as the more secure option. The reason is simply the physical proximity to the data and the feeling of control.
The interesting question, of course, is whether this assumption is correct and what the reality really looks like. Where is your ERP data most secure - in your own data centre or in the public cloud?
How careful do you need to be with your data?
The topic of data security is currently at the centre of many discussions. And rightly so, as there are many parties who want to access, control or even steal your data. In today's highly competitive markets, companies are forced to handle their data with extreme caution for several reasons.
1. professionalism
So where is your valuable data most secure? Let's look at this question with an on-premise situation in mind. The first point to consider is the level of professionalism required. Hackers are becoming more and more sophisticated at a rapid pace, so the handling of data must also become more and more professional. Ideally, you should always be one step ahead of the hackers. So you need to consider the level of expertise of your IT staff, their experience and mentality, your budgets and your ability to fill vacancies.
2. knowledge, knowledge, knowledge
The second point is the depth of your knowledge. What is the current skill level of your IT staff? When was the last time you gained a new perspective through recruitment? What do your budgets look like in terms of training and motivation? Is it enough to keep up with the pace? And how has the trend in these budgets developed in recent years?
3. practice makes perfect
The third point is the extent of your expertise and level of experience. To what extent are you able to master all the applications, databases, operating systems and reporting tools that your organisation uses today? Are you satisfied with the answer to this question?
4. server access
The fourth point is physical access to your servers. What exactly are the access controls to your server room? How many different people have access? Do you know what employees and external providers are doing in this room? And don't forget the cleaning company employees who work after hours.
5. audits
And finally, audits. How often do you have a professional IT audit carried out - by an external company that tells you honestly what the weak points in your security strategy are? And how closely do you follow their recommendations?
And how often do you make a backup?
According to a rough estimate, 40% of all companies using on-premise solutions do not back up their data on a daily basis. Does this news shock you? And are you sure that your company is one of the other 60%?
Let's face the facts:
In today's world, data security is critical
You need to run a business and focus on your customers, employees and goals Data security is not part of your core business.
Cybersecure Microsoft solutions
In 2020, Microsoft was awarded the Joint Enterprise Defence Infrastructure contract put out to tender by the Pentagon, the headquarters of the US Department of Defence. The Pentagon is probably the organisation that places the most value on confidentiality of any company in the world. And the one with the most to lose! This contract could potentially dispel the mistrust many organisations have about cloud security. Microsoft employs 3,500 engineers specialising in cyber security and invests a billion dollars a year in cyber security.
There is no doubt that the security of Microsoft data centres is far better than that of the server room and the IT staff of the average SME. Does this also apply to your company?
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