Maintaining secure and reliable cloud data storage for a manufacturing company can be a complex challenge, especially in an era of elevated cyberattack risks and consequences. But a multi-layered approach can strengthen this vital infrastructure against even the most sophisticated attempts.
Here’s how to ensure your company’s cloud storage infrastructure is robust enough to guard against constantly evolving cybersecurity threats.
Adopt a hybrid or multi-cloud strategy
Diversifying your company’s cloud-based assets into a hybrid, segmented or multi-location cloud strategy can be a powerful defense against cyber risks. Distributing workloads among multiple cloud environments increases flexibility and offers redundancy, guaranteeing that if one data center is compromised, the data stored elsewhere remains safe.
However, the need for efficiency demands ingenuity — that’s why edge computing has become part of a sound cloud strategy in manufacturing environments. Edge computing techniques enable your company to process and analyze critical, real-time data closer to the source (e.g., the plant floor), reducing reliance on cloud latency and increasing resilience against network disruptions.
Strengthen security protocols
Implementing a “zero trust” model can bolster security by requiring every user to submit to the same rigid protocols, regardless of title or clearance. This kind of strict identity verification and authentication should also apply to every device trying to access resources on a private network, whether within or outside of the network perimeter, to limit the threat of a breach. However, if a breach does occur, encrypting sensitive data both at rest and in transit will protect it from unauthorized access.
In addition, conducting regular security audits can identify potential vulnerabilities in the cloud infrastructure so they can be addressed before attackers exploit them.
Improve cloud monitoring and governance
Automated tools driven by AI and machine learning can continuously oversee cloud environments for unusual activities, delivering real-time notifications to enable swift responses to potential threats. Additionally, defining explicit cloud governance policies that specify data access rights, management procedures, and security incident protocols is crucial in maintaining control over cloud assets and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
Industry-specific compliance and regulations
In addition to your company’s due diligence, it’s essential not to ignore industry regulations and other external mandates. Regular audits, compliance reviews, and detailed documentation are crucial for adherence to strict industry standards and regulations, such as ISO 27001 for information security management and NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) guidelines.
Supply chain integration
An effective cloud strategy boosts supply chain security by offering real-time data visibility and control. Secure cloud platforms can encrypt data both in transit and at rest, safeguarding sensitive information shared with suppliers and partners against unauthorized access and cyberattacks.
Customization and scalability
Tailored cloud solutions enable manufacturing firms to customize security measures according to their unique requirements. For instance, a company may utilize advanced threat detection systems, multi-factor authentication, and regular security updates to defend against emerging cyber threats. The scalability of these measures ensures they can expand along with the company's growth.
Backup and disaster recovery plans
If your company isn’t regularly backing up data to multiple locations, both on-premises and in the cloud, now is the time to correct the record. Automated backup systems continuously save critical data for quick retrieval and restoration in the event of a breach. Make sure to regularly test your disaster recovery plan so that established procedures work effectively under real-world conditions.
Invest in cybersecurity training
Since human error is a leading cause of security breaches, companies should train employees on how to recognize phishing attacks as well as ways to thwart them — such as using strong passwords and following secure practices when accessing cloud resources. Take it a step further by creating ongoing security awareness programs that teach employees about emerging cyber threats and how to protect against them.
Partner with reliable cloud providers
C Spire partners with cloud providers such as AWS and Azure and utilizes a network of owned cloud storage facilities to bring clients the latest, strongest cloud security possible.
Are you ready to transform your unreliable cloud strategy into a more secure, resilient and effective approach that reduces exposure to cyber threats and enhances operational efficiency?
