Accounting Data Security Always A Challenge

Author: Keith Huggett

The cloud has gotten a lot of press lately, but it's not really a new phenomenon. Once the Internet grew to the point that large amounts of data could be passed securely among individuals or companies, it quickly became clear that not everything had to be stored or maintained inhouse. Companies realized that they had the option to access software applications and information remotely, thereby reducing the cost and hassle associated with frequent updates and compatibility issues.

They also realized that rather than building their own server networks to handle record-keeping, they could transfer that information to an external vendor who would assume responsibility for ongoing access, security and storage.

The question, of course, is whether accounting data security is safer in the cloud versus on-site. It's definitely more convenient. For one thing, using the cloud for data storage reduces the need for large IT departments and ongoing hardware/software upgrades. It also makes it possible to access corporate data remotely, using the Internet or mobile technology to do the work that would otherwise have to be done in the office.

With regard to security, the cloud also has some clear advantages. Vendors that provide online data storage and management focus on one thing — data integrity. That means they're committed to doing whatever it takes to protect the data residing on their servers. Typically, that includes:

• Building an enterprise-class data center

• Installing technologically-advanced firewalls

• Conducting ongoing anti-virus scans

• Completing daily data backups

• Employing full-time security personnel

• Maintaining redundant power systems, backup generators and fire/flood protection

The list could go on and on. Does your company have the resources to undertake that kind of effort? If not, a cloud-based solution might be the just what you've been looking for — a viable way to reduce costs without sacrificing data security or quality. 

If you'd like to learn more about safe, alternative ways to manage your financial applications and data, The Tax Office, Inc. would love to help. By offering everything from tax preparation, payroll management and online bookkeeping to complete accounting services, we have the solutions you need to keep your business streamlined and secure. So contact us today.