Businesses everywhere experience getting hacked or some sort of outside user trying to get access to their information. With the interconnected world the way it is, it’s nearly impossible not to come across this situation at least once. Because of this, having a secure file server can do wonders when making sure your data is accessible by the people you want to access it. So, how do you set up a secure file server? Well, companies like Fognigma are here to help. We can walk you through what happens when sensitive documents or files end up in the wrong hands and what to do about it. Read more on exploring your secure file server options and how to implement them within your organization.
The Risks of Relying on Thumb Drives
Thumb drives used to be great. They’re portable and hold a ton of data, but they’re no longer as sufficient as they used to be. Thumb drives can get easily lost or even stolen, and you don’t want outside users to have this kind of confidential information. Also, using thumb drives across multiple devices can create confusion and multiple versions of the same file, which just makes the entire situation more disorganized. So, read below some solutions Fognigma suggests instead of using the traditional thumb drive for information.
The Cloud Storage Dilemma: Convenience vs. Security
The newest and most efficient way companies are storing their information is through cloud storage. This is an invisible yet protected area where information like presentations, call logs, and more is stored so that only the authorized users assigned to this cloud have access. If you work in a remote setting, cloud storage is also extremely beneficial to everyone on your team since they can access the information from anywhere in the world. However, there are always risks with putting confidential data in any type of online storage. Here are some of the top ones we’ve seen working with our clients:
Lack of Control Over Encryption Keys
Making sure your cloud storage has encryption keys in place is crucial. It only takes a little bit of time for hackers to get into a cloud storage provider when there aren’t any sort of encryption keys implemented. We like to say that encryption is the backbone of file security, and encryption keys are what lock and unlock your files. Many cloud storage providers retain ownership of these keys, meaning that if their systems are hacked, your files could be exposed. Without control over your encryption keys, you’re essentially letting anyone in the world have access to your network at any given time.
Limited Security Customization
Cloud storage can be a little bit tight on customization. To be able to have your data protected in the way you want, you’ll have to go further than just the standard cloud storage provider. In doing this, it may be beneficial to team up with Fognigma so you’re not at the mercy of encryption standards, update schedules, and security protocols with Erebus, our file sharing solution..
Data Sharing Practices
If you have a lot of people who share data under your organization, you may want to go the cloud provider route. You can collaborate or share with multiple people, including third parties, without posing a significant security risk.
Shared Server Vulnerabilities
Cloud storage can offer shared servers, but this feature can often bring vulnerabilities you may not be aware of. For instance, if a certain employee or even customer account is hacked, attackers may be able to leverage this specific hack to gain more access paths, like seeing files and other confidential content. It’s important to know all the risks and potential vulnerabilities that cloud storage can pose before making the decision to incorporate it within your organization’s network.
Why Host Your Own Secure File Server?
Have you ever thought about hosting your own secure file server? This may seem scary, but it’s actually the best way to have complete control over your organization’s data. If you’re interested, teaming up with Fognigma is one of the first steps in taking your server private. Also, it can give you the ability to customize your security while making sure your files are consistently protected. Read more on some simple methods of setting this up.
Best Methods for Setting Up Your Own Secure File Server
The good news is that there are multiple ways to set up your own secure file server. If one method doesn’t suit you in setting up the server, you can always try another. Here are three we think are most popular:
NAS (Network Attached Storage)
NAS is simple and a great way to keep your things private. NAS stands for Network Attached Storage, and it is mainly a device that you can configure on your own and create an external hard drive of sorts. Many of these are equipped with USB ports or adapters, so you’re able to plug them right into a router. NAS devices are great for small businesses or companies that don’t do a lot of file sharing but still want to be protected from unauthorized users.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, has been around for a while. We’re talking as early as the first days of the internet. It’s a great way to act as a protected server when you want to transfer large files. If you consider going this route, don’t forget about SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), which is where you can add SSH encryption, and FTPS (File Transfer Protocol Secure), which adds TLS encryption. All of these kinds of FTP services are easily customizable, so they’re tailored to your company or organization’s specific needs.
HFS (HTTP File Server)
HFS, otherwise known as an HTTP File Server, is another method you can consider in setting up your own file server. It’s long-lasting and great for beginners who need a quick solution. If you’re mainly looking for more control over a server’s functionality, this may be the best option.
What to Consider for Hosting Your Own File Server
When thinking about how to host a secure file-sharing web server, you’ll need to consider a few things before deciding what method you’ll ultimately go with. Hosting your own server can make you or your IT team more responsible for safeguarding your data. If you’re comfortable with this, then go for it! If you’re unsure, it may be beneficial to talk to a company like Fognigma that can help figure out what works for your organization. Read below on other security practices you may want to think about before pulling the trigger on running your own file server security.
Keep Software Updated
Once you’ve got the secure file server installed or implemented, it’s super important to regularly update, no matter the server software. Having updates in place on a regular basis can patch vulnerabilities and stay ahead of potential threats. Outdated software is one of the most common entry points for cyberattacks.
Use Strong Encryption
Don’t forget to include encryption! Some may think encryption isn’t always needed, but it’s the best extra layer of protection you may need in a cyber attack situation. If you team up with Fognigma, we have our own encryption solution called Conclave. This kind of encryption method makes it significantly harder for unauthorized users to access your data.
Control Access
It’s also very important to only give control access to people who are in your organization. Setting up user authentication can help make sure people outside of your org aren’t getting access to your files. Only authorized users should be able to view or modify your data.
Monitor Activity
Once the internet file server is in place, make sure to continuously track user activity, like logins and more. This can make it easier to find suspicious behavior quickly, so you’re able to respond in real time if there are threats happening.
Backup Your Data
Backing up your data is also a crucial component of having secure data and protection in place. The worst thing that can happen is that you do get hacked, and all that data is erased or in the wrong hands. If this isn’t backed up somewhere in a secure location, you’re unable to get that back. Just make sure you store backups in a secure location, separate from your primary server.
Benefits of Hosting Your Own Secure File Server
There are so many benefits to hosting your own secure file server, no matter how big or small your organization is. The biggest reason a lot of people decide to go this route is having full control. You’re able to see all your data with the specific security measures in place, all while things are protected and secure. Also, this gives your files an enhanced level of privacy. You don’t have to worry about third-party access or data sharing because you’ll have your tailored encryption and security protocols in place. Then, finally, another benefit of hosting your own file server or secure file host is being able to save money because it’s way more affordable than going with an expensive subscription fee.
Where Does Fognigma Come In?
Suppose you’ve decided on going the hosting your own file server route, great! Now, where do you begin? There can be a lot of initial questions and concerns before you actually install and set up file server security. This is where Fognigma can help answer some of those questions and even help walk you through the configuration if needed. Team up with our company today if you’d like to set up a secure file server correctly. We’re happy to help any way we can.
What is the difference between NAS and file sharing?
As mentioned before, NAS is a network-attached storage feature that can allow administrators to control who has access to what. This is similar to traditional file sharing to an extent, but the biggest difference is the overall design and focus. For instance, a file server usually offers more customization, while NAS is already set up in a stricter, more specific way, like access controls or security configuration options. Overall, it’s primarily up to you and your organization on which secure file host you decide on, so consider all the options before making the decision.
Summary on How to Take Control of Your Data
It may seem daunting to set up your own secure file server, but it’s way easier than it looks. Having a cloud storage service is old news. Most companies and organizations want total control when it comes to network security, and having your own secure file storage server is the first step in doing that. Whether you’re a small business owner, a remote worker, or simply someone who values privacy, a secure file server can provide the peace of mind you need to work confidently from anywhere. So, take the leap and set up your own file server. If you have any questions on how to get started, reach out to our team at Fognigma today!