Is the Cloud More Secure? | Cloud Migration in the Public Sector

There are many factors to consider when making the decision to move your IT systems to the cloud, especially in the public sector. One of those vital factors is security. The security of your data is important, and you need to weigh the risks and benefits of moving to the cloud before making a decision. 

The cloud is a great option for many organizations because it can provide increased security and flexibility. When data is stored in the cloud, it is more difficult for hackers to access. Cloud providers also have robust security measures in place, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. 

However, there are also some risks associated with moving to the cloud. One of those risks is that you may not have control over where your data is stored. In this article, we will look at the risks and benefits of moving your IT systems to the cloud so that you can make an informed decision. 

Public Sector Benefits of Moving IT Systems to the Cloud 

Federal government IT organizations are responsible for managing large amounts of data and ensuring that this data is secure. The cloud can provide many benefits for these organizations, especially in the areas of security and flexibility. The cloud offers a ton of advantages over traditional on-premises solutions. However, one of the key considerations for public sector organizations when moving to the cloud is security.

There are pros and pitfalls of cloud security, particularly in a multi-cloud environment. By understanding these before making a decision to move to the cloud, you can be sure that your data is as secure as possible. Some of the most significant benefits of moving IT systems to the cloud for public sector organizations include: 

• Increased security: One of the main benefits of moving to the cloud is that it can provide increased security for your data. When data is stored in the cloud, it is more difficult for hackers to access. Cloud providers also have robust security measures in place, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems. 
• Connectivity & Accessibility: With anytime, anywhere access, users are always connected. Users may access files from any device at any time. That eliminates the chance of data being saved on any computer, which is a significant security risk.
• Improved collaboration: Another benefit of moving to the cloud is improved collaboration. With cloud-based solutions, multiple users can access and edit files in real time from anywhere in the world. This can be a great advantage for public sector organizations that have employees working in different locations. 
• Faster Deployment: Cloud-based solutions may be deployed in hours rather than weeks, months, or years as it takes to carefully plan, acquire, develop, and implement an internal IT infrastructure with inside personnel.
• Cost savings: One of the biggest benefits of moving to the cloud is cost savings. Cloud-based solutions are often more cost-effective than on-premises solutions since you only pay for what you use. In addition, there is no need to invest in hardware or software upfront, which can also save you money. 

Despite the fact that cloud-based technologies offer a lot of promise, public-sector organizations considering migrating to the cloud frequently confront a variety of organizational and operating-model problems. Despite the new pressure, many businesses still struggle to gain access to the required resources for migration. 

Furthermore, there are concerns about perceived privacy and security—including over compliance with the US Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data or CLOUD Act and the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR.

Public Sector Risks of Moving to the Cloud

While there are many benefits of moving to the cloud, there are also some risks that need to be considered. One of those risks is that you may not have control over where your data is stored. When you store data in the cloud, it is often stored in multiple locations. This can make it more difficult to track and manage data. 

Some pitfalls of moving your systems to the cloud can include: 

• Unavoidable security risks: One of the biggest risks of moving to the cloud is security. While the cloud can provide increased security, there is also a risk that your data could be hacked or leaked. It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of moving to the cloud before making a decision. 
• Vendor lock-in: Another risk of moving to the cloud is vendor lock-in. When you use a cloud-based solution, you may be reliant on that particular vendor for support and updates. This can be a problem if the vendor goes out of business or raises their prices. 
• Workforce Training: The public sector workforce is not accustomed to working in the cloud and may need additional training to be able to use cloud-based applications effectively. Migrating to the cloud can add new levels of complexity to IT operations. 
• Lack of Cloud Expertise: The public sector often lacks the in-house expertise needed to effectively manage a cloud environment.
• Data Sovereignty: The public sector often deals with sensitive data that must be kept within the country of origin. 

The public sector workforce is not accustomed to working in the cloud and may need additional training to be able to use cloud-based applications effectively. The operational complexity of migrating to the cloud can add new levels of complexity to IT operations. 

The public sector also often lacks the in-house expertise needed to effectively manage a cloud environment. All of these risks need to be mitigated and managed in order to have a secure and successful cloud deployment in the public sector. 

Conclusion

When done correctly, moving IT systems to the cloud can offer many benefits, such as increased security, improved collaboration, and cost savings. However, there are also some risks that need to be considered, such as vendor lock-in and security risks. 

To move your IT systems to the cloud in a secure manner, OnFrontiers’ network of cybersecurity experts can provide guidance and best practices. To connect with one of these experts, please click here.