Prepare for Disaster with Data Storage Security

Because of the large number of security breaches in the news, data storage security has become a prominent approach to keeping data safe from disasters and cyber attacks. The Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA) defines data storage security as the “application of physical, technical and administrative controls to protect storage systems and infrastructure as well as the data stored within them. Storage security is focused on protecting data (and its storage infrastructure) against unauthorized disclosure, modification or destruction while assuring its availability to authorized users. These controls may be preventive, detective, corrective, deterrent, recovery or compensatory in nature.”

Developments within the enterprise space are driving the need for data storage security. Significant data growth is a factor, as the growth causes a need to add storage to maintain business operations. However, as the volumes of storage proliferate, they become bigger targets that are harder to protect. In addition to this, cyber attacks and the cost of recovering from them is an incentive to invest in data storage security. In putting money into security, an organization will save a significant amount in the event of a disaster or cyber attack. The business would not have to pay to recover any lost data, because their data would already be protected.

To best take advantage of data storage security by keeping your data safe and preparing for disaster simultaneously, we’ve compiled a list of tips.

Access Control

By practicing role-based access control as well as multi-factor identification, your data system will be more secure. In addition to this, administrators should change the default passwords on the storage systems, as well as compel users to create strong passwords for themselves.

Encryption

The data in the storage systems should be encrypted while in-flight and while at rest. The storage administrator needs to use a secure key management system in order to accurately track their encryption keys.

Endpoint Security

Endpoints are typically weak spots for an organization in terms of security. The mobile devices that will be accessing the stored data need to have proper security measures put in place. This way, the endpoint won’t be vulnerable to mobile attacks.

Backup and Recovery Plan

As an extra level of insurance, put a comprehensive backup and disaster recovery plan in place in the event that you are caught off guard by an attack and need to recover your data. The backup systems should have the same level of security that is used for the primary systems. A potential cyber attack is always right around the corner, so it’s a necessity to have a strong backup and recovery plan, just in case a cybercriminal gets past your defenses.

Data storage security that is implemented well will be a preventive measure against attacks that come as a result of trends such as data growth. By strengthening your security, you make your entire organization stronger and less susceptible to attacks.