Category: Security

Pure vs Hybrid Cloud: Advantages For Data Analysts?

Pure vs Hybrid Cloud Models: Questions Answered For Data Analysts

There are landmark moments throughout history where innovations in technology have marked a change in how businesses operate. The creation of cloud technology is undoubtedly one of them. Now we have choices in the type of cloud services we can use. Comparing pure vs hybrid cloud models reveal there are pros and cons of each technology. Here on the Fastmetrics blog, we have already looked at how ushering in cloud technology created a new era in computing, affecting how many people work, across industries and across the world.

The cloud has made many tech professionals’ jobs much easier, from data analyst to data scientists. Having an easily accessible repository for big chunks of information, provides the necessary support for these professionals. This allows them to keep up with an increasingly fast-paced and mobile world.

In recent years, two different types of cloud models have emerged, with pure vs hybrid cloud models available. Each cloud model has its own set of benefits for data analysts. We’ll be looking deeper into the two types to determine what advantages each model has for data analysts.

Pure Cloud Model

A pure cloud model, also known as a private cloud model, has an on-premises cloud owned solely by a company or enterprise. Techopedia states that many opt for this model, because of the control and privacy it entails. Having a pure cloud model means there will be less risk of attack or a data breach. Data analysts who use this model prefer it because of the security and reliability it provides.

Using a pure cloud model means all aspects of the cloud are in your control. You decide on accessibility. The private cloud model is also very helpful for data analysts dealing with sensitive or high profile information or data.

Furthermore, Computer Weekly notes that “the key benefit of a pure cloud approach is that it is easy to implement, scalable and very well suited to organizations that don’t possess in-house IT department skills.” This means that analysts who are also filling other tech roles will be able to devote their time towards data analysis without worrying about troubleshooting.

Hybrid Cloud Model

A hybrid cloud model on the other hand is a mix of private and public cloud platforms. The creation of multiple service platforms has made it easier for companies to shift from the very rigid private cloud models and migrate towards locating their data and assets on public clouds. For analysts, this makes their data more accessible anywhere and at anytime.

The main advantage of the hybrid cloud is speed. As a data analyst, you need quick access to information in order to process it as fast as possible. And if you are using different types of software for the job, speed counts for a lot.

To be a competitive, data analysts must have skills across a multitude of software, including programming languages like Python and HTML. A hybrid cloud model will complement analysts dealings with multiple software, potentially increasing productivity.

There’s no concrete answer when it comes to the question of which of the two models work best. After examining the advantages of both, it’s clear to see that each has its own merits. In the end, it all depends on the nature of the business and how cloud technology can support processes and your output as a data analyst.

About Fastmetrics, Inc. Building & Business ISP

Since 2002, Fastmetrics is the Bay Area’s only dedicated business ISP. We provide telecommunication services in California and the San Francisco Bay Area. Reliable service – backed by better live and local support. From install to 24-7 proactive monitoring, get treated like a VIP customer. Not a number by a faceless call center. We specialize in managed business internet and phones, dedicated high speed business fiber internet, business WiFi, SIP voice solutions / UCaaS and managed network services. We are a Microsoft and Cisco Meraki Partner. Our team are Certified Cisco Specialists, Ubiquiti Enterprise Wireless Accredited and Polycom Authorized Solution Advisors. We take care of your business network, so you can focus on growth.

July 12, 2019
Data Security & Personal Information
Personal Data Security: Protect Important Details Online

Being online is part of our daily lives. Unfortunately, cyber attacks and data breaches have also become commonplace in today’s connected world. With the growth of the Internet and the rise of digital technology, we often inadvertently share our information over the ‘net. This compromises our personal data security and leaves us open to identity fraud, hacking and other malicious online attacks. Identity fraud is now one of the most common white-collar crimes.

Recent studies show that most Americans do not trust modern institutions to protect their personal data. Further, we neglect cyber-security best practises in our daily lives. In our modern interconnected world, it’s even more important for us to take care what personal information we share online. From email addresses to social media accounts, we leave digital footprints wherever we go.

This article provides reasons why you should not give away personal details about yourself. It also states basic personal data that you should protect and safeguard.

6 Basic Pieces Of Information Not To Be Shared Online

There is a plethora of information that should not be shared online. 6 of the most important pieces of personal information to be protected for data security purposes include;
1. Personal Names: Not easy to avoid. However, there isn’t always a need to use personal names on social media profiles, for example. Your first, middle and last names are basic pieces of information, but also key to misuse by others. Never share your mother’s maiden name or your own maiden name online.
2. Personal Identity Numbers: All personal ID numbers like passport numbers, banking PIN codes or account details, social security numbers, and even your driver’s license.
3. Residential & E-mail Addresses: Never share your residential or private email addresses online. Be aware that all of this data is often stored and hard to remove on social networks.
4. Bio metric data: Retina and iris scans, fingerprints, facial geometrical patterns and voice signatures.
5. Vehicle Registration Numbers: Your automobile and or motorcycle registration numbers.
6. Phone Numbers: Personal landlines or cell phone numbers.
So why take personal data security so seriously?

Prevent Identity Theft: Identity theft is when somebody steals uses your personal credentials for their benefit (typically financial gain), leaving you in a vulnerable position. This mainly relies on taking your personal information and pretending to be you online. This might mean getting access to your personal finances. Even committing cyber criminal activities, which you will be held responsible for. Avoid this by limiting the personal information you share over the internet.

Protect Financial Data: It’s obvious you should not share your financial data with just anybody online. There are many ways in which you can safeguard your financial details. Some of these include not sharing your banking details, using strong and multi-faceted passwords to make it difficult for hackers to crack and using internet banking only when you are on a secure network.

Prevent Home Burglaries: Would be thieves want to break into your house when you are not there. If you spread the news of your vacation on social media, you are literally giving an open invitation to others to enter your house and steal.

Enhance Employ-ability: Your online image can make or break employ-ability. Many companies conduct thorough background checks on potential employees. Not discussing too much of your personal life in public (online) ensures you take your personal information seriously and will do so in the workplace too.

Enhance Business Reputation: Owners of businesses need to also keep data private from prying eyes. This is very important for maintaining corporate security as well as safeguarding trade secrets. Your business will suffer if you lose all your data at the hands of a malicious hacker. In case you do, consider this business reputation repair services.

University Admissions: Even renowned universities are checking social media profiles (old and new) in their admissions processes. Ensure you are on the safe side and don’t divulge too many details about yourself. Getting involved in controversial arguments can mar your chances of university admission.

Insurance Purposes: Even insurance companies check claims based on personal online data that is available.

In Court: Your online image can also be used in conducting legal proceedings against you. This can hold as evidence in a court of law.

The above are just some of the many reasons to keep on top of our personal data security. There are always new and unknown threats online. As technology evolves, so do attacks. As do options for better online security, such as a free VPN for private browsing or managed routers and firewalls. The only diligent way to maintain high levels of data security, are to remain vigilant and follow best practises as best as we can. It is also recommended to invest in network security training so you have all necessary knowledge to keep data secure.

About Fastmetrics, Inc. Building & Business ISP

Since 2002, Fastmetrics is the Bay Area’s only dedicated business ISP. We provide telecommunication services in California and the San Francisco Bay Area. Reliable service – backed by better live and local support. From install to 24-7 proactive monitoring, get treated like a VIP customer. Not a number by a faceless call center. We specialize in managed business internet and phones, dedicated high speed business fiber internet, business WiFi, SIP voice solutions / UCaaS and managed network services. We are a Microsoft and Cisco Meraki Partner. Our team are Certified Cisco Specialists, Ubiquiti Enterprise Wireless Accredited and Polycom Authorized Solution Advisors. We take care of your business network, so you can focus on growth.
January 22, 2019