Cloud storage vs on-premise storage Pros and cons
Are you deciding between cloud storage and on-premise storage for your business? One of the most significant factors to consider is cybersecurity. Both options have their pros and cons, so it's essential to understand the differences before making a decision. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at each storage type's cybersecurity capabilities and their overall pros and cons.
Cloud storage
Cloud storage has been growing in popularity over the years, with many businesses opting for cloud storage. Here are the pros:
Pros
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High-level security: Cloud storage providers typically employ enterprise-level security protocols, such as end-to-end encryption, intrusion detection systems, and firewalls.
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Automatic updates: Cloud storage providers offer automatic updates, ensuring that your data is always protected with the latest cybersecurity measures.
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Remote access: No matter where you are or what device you're using, cloud storage allows you to access your data. This flexibility is particularly attractive to businesses with remote teams.
Cons
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Cost: Cloud storage can be expensive, particularly for large businesses or those requiring extensive storage.
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Outages: Cloud storage is susceptible to outages, which can result in data breaches, loss of productivity, and damage to your business's reputation.
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Dependency: Cloud storage providers become the gatekeepers and could potentially cause problems if they shut down.
On-Premise Storage
On-premise storage, also referred to as local storage or self-hosted storage, is where data is stored on hardware on-site, such as servers or hard drives. Here are the pros:
Pros
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Full control: Businesses have full control over the management and security of their data.
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No dependence: Businesses are not dependent on internet connectivity or third-party providers, making on-premise storage ideal for businesses with limited or unreliable internet access.
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No recurring costs: Once the hardware is fully paid, the only costs are maintenance and upgrades.
Cons
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Data loss: On-premise storage increases the risk of data loss due to natural disasters, fires, and theft.
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Lack of security: Without an IT team, the data risks being susceptible to cyberattacks, leaving your business exposed to data breaches.
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Limited flexibility: On-premise storage limits remote access unless businesses pay for remote access options.
Conclusion
Cloud storage and on-premise storage are both viable options for businesses. It's essential to consider each option's pros and cons and choose the one that best suits your business's cybersecurity needs. While cloud storage offers flexibility and high-level security, it can be costly and dependent on third-party providers. On-premise storage provides full control and no recurring costs, but it can be susceptible to data loss and cyberattacks without proper IT management.
So know your priorities, evaluate your possibilities and choose your storage wisely.
References
- Orellana, I. (2021, March 17). Cloud versus on-premises storage: What to consider. CSO Online. https://www.csoonline.com/article/3406732/cloud-versus-on-premises-storage-what-to-consider.html
- IBM. (2021, April 20). On-premises storage pros and cons. IBM. https://www.ibm.com/cloud/learn/on-premises-storage-pros-and-cons/