I read with interest the other day that Google notified its users that an issue with the software in Google Docs had inadvertently allowed some subscribers unauthorized access to files that were not theirs. Now it is fair to say that Google, Microsoft and the other hosting companies do a very good job in keeping these systems secure and available. Well at least that’s what we believe.
My point is, that this highlights a consideration when choosing “cloud” computing services or “web hosted applications” as we called it not very long ago. It should always be weighed in the pros and cons, that when choosing a service or application that is outside your direct control or the that of the company, you share twin risks. The security of your data and the availability of the aforementioned. Obviously there are usually lots of pros, including availability anywhere with Internet access, price, lower ongoing costs.
So back to the cons – it should be said that if you do put data in the cloud then consider firstly the sensitivity of your data and how well protected it is and if it meets your company’s security standards. You should go through strict evaluation and request technical details of how the service will protect your data.
From the availability standpoint, I am fairly confident that 24 x 7 availability metrics of these hosted services will be at least as good as your business can deliver and that’s if you are a very large, deep pocketed corporate. If you aren’t then 99% or 99.9% availability will be a good and realistic achievement. Now, I have experienced system issues with certain suppliers of hosted email in the past and in that customer’s case we had to move from the provider to internal systems and so far (touch wood) it has worked out better, but I don’t believe this to be the norm.
Saying that, I have moved my own business email out to Microsoft hosted Online services as I like to eat the cake I am serving up and so far it tastes good!
