How Secure is the Cloud System?

In computer internet security, the cloud system – an offshoot of cloud computing or networking – is the new kid on the block. It has many advantages that traditional software hasn't quite perfected. It doesn't bog down your computer's CPU, it saves memory space and it updates in a snap. It also rescans all of your files when new threats are identified. While this all sounds great in theory, there are some drawbacks that can hamper your security. These drawbacks don't affect all users, but they are something to seriously consider before purchasing cloud system security software.

Internet Problems

One problem with the cloud system is that it isn't contained on your computer. The software is run from remote server located on the company's property. While this system makes your computer run faster than it would with traditional anti-virus software, it also leaves your computer open to attacks.

Since the software is running from a remote location, your computer always needs to be connected to the internet to be protected. The internet connection speed also has to be fast or the cloud system won't work properly.

When your computer is working offline or using wireless, satellite or dial-up internet service, your computer can be infected with viruses and malware from contaminated portable storage devices.

Traditional security software protects your computer both online and off because it is downloaded and stored directly on your computer's hard drive, so this problem is unique to cloud systems. Of course, if your computer is a desktop PC and is never disconnected from the internet, this may not be a problem for you.

Hacking

You may need a cloud system to protect your computer from hackers, but who is going to protect the cloud?

This is a question that has bothered computer experts for a while. Some have predicted the creation of new viruses that will block remote servers, allowing hackers to infiltrate the newly defenseless computer. While this type of virus may be created sometime in the future, cloud systems are currently being attacked as hackers create new ways to manipulate cloud systems every day. This means that a cloud-protected computer can become vulnerable at any moment. If fact, some hackers have already found ways to infiltrate clouds and attach rootkits. While this problem isn't widespread yet, it still poses a viable problem that cloud-system users should be aware of.

Luckily, cloud systems are designed to adapt quickly. In the case of an attack, chances are your system will be able to quickly fix the problem before any major damage is done.

Overall, cloud systems are can be a viable additional layer of protection for your computer, but it shouldn't be the only system of protection you use. Good anti-virus software with a built-in cloud system is a practical compromise that will give your computer the highest level of security against Trojans, viruses, spyware and other malware threats.

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