Cloud computing is a leading edge technology that delivers high-demand computing services entirely over the internet. Operationally, cloud computing stores, manages and processes data effortlessly rather than relying on a local server or personal computer systems. Cloud computing gave birth to the term, “cloud storage.”
Cloud storage stores digital data online using a cloud service provider’s computing infrastructure. Some well-known cloud services include Box, Google Drive, Apple iCloud, Dropbox, Microsoft OneDrive, and Amazon Web Services. With many of us working hybrid schedules, cloud storage has been central to assisting students, faculty and staff work more connectively while being physically away from the university. For example, at GW, secure, encrypted cloud-based solutions such as Box and Google Drive are two of the cloud services provided to the university community for easy collaboration and data storage.
The following are some key benefits of cloud storage:
- Adequate security, which requires authentication and password.
- Your files are secure, and you are less likely to lose data due to device failure.
- Facilitates collaborative team projects as you can easily share files and folders.
- Easy access to lesson plans and notes to share across several devices.
- An excellent way to back up your computer without copying your data to a hard disk or flash drive.
While cloud storage offers good security measures to keep your data safe and secure, you need to do your part to guarantee that no one gains unauthorized access to your data. Following are some recommended practices to help you secure your data:
Use Permissions: When a folder or file is shared, it's usually in the form of a link or permission using the recipient's email address. Consider setting different access levels for senior staff members or on a need-to-know basis. Permission-based access can make it harder for a hacker to get through each layer of permissions.
Manage File and Folder Sharing: Protect stored data by limiting shared access to the files or folders associated with that link to specific users. When utilizing Box or Google Drive, it is usually best to only share files or folders with George Washington University members unless there is a business justification to share outside of the university.
Examine Files and Folders: Review the shared folders and files regularly, and disable shared access when it's no longer required.
For more information on Storage, backup or document management, please visit our GW IT website: https://it.gwu.edu/backup-storage-document-management
This blogpost is offered to you by the GW Information Security and Risk Services team. For more information on GW IT Security, please visit our security website: https://it.gwu.edu/gw-information-security
#SecuringGW is a shared responsibility, so if you see something, say something. Report suspicious digital activities, including phishing emails, to abuse@gwu.edu
IT Support Questions? For IT support, please contact the Information Technology Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948), ithelp@gwu.edu, or visit ithelp.gwu.edu.
