Round Tale

SaaS stands for software as a service and is considered to be one of the most effective methods for keeping costs to a minimum with the ability to continue utilizing those applications that are needed. SaaS is a type of software leasing where the provider licenses a piece of software to the user for a specific period of time or pay-as-you-go.

This allows the client to use the software whenever and wherever they need for the length of the contract. The license can be for individual or group use. SaaS is often used for billing, invoicing, human resource management, service desk management and sales management.

Given the areas in which SaaS is mainly utilized, security issues could cause massive disruption and problems within an organization. There are two primary categories of security threats involved in SaaS systems. These two security categories include:

• Unauthorized access
• Physical peril

Unauthorized access is an extraordinarily high data risk. Due to the specific nature of SaaS; the storage of data on a remote server, the risk of unauthorized access greatly increases. When data is transferred over the internet or on a remote server, hackers have the ability to capture passwords, view data and make modifications.

Of course this is an issue with any type of remote access, but when billing information, invoices and human resource information is transferred, this information is more harmful and appealing to hackers. In many cases, the information is intercepted in stealth mode which means the company has no idea it even happened.

The second security threat category is physical peril. This occurs when data is physically destroyed. Destruction can occur from floods, fires, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Although most servers have backups, there’s always a chance data can be unrecoverable. Again by accessing information remotely, it’s putting the data in the trust of another company.

These potential security issues seem threatening at first and are common on all servers that require remote access. Both businesses and individuals must be concerned with these issues when using most other types of hosting. Unfortunately due to the primary use of SaaS, more vital information is being sent and hosted by these applications making it  more dangerous for businesses.

There are network security features in place to prevent unauthorized access and backup server locations in case of a natural disaster. However, these potential security threats should play a large role in the decision to use SaaS for additional applications.

One of the biggest priorities when running an online business is website security. Having a secure website will cause your customers to trust your business, thereby boosting sales and increasing your return on investments. The online community is teeming with malicious hackers that are willing to do whatever it takes to penetrate your site’s security and compromise the delicate financial information of your clients. You should have the same fervor when attempting to deter these careless intruders. Most customers will not shop at an online store that is not secure, therefore creating a secure environment is essential in the world of online business. The following 4 tips will help make your website a safer place for your customers to shop.

Strong Administrative Passwords

Protecting your website means protecting the administrative interface. Once a hacker gains access to your site’s administrative interface, they can gain control of your entire online business in a few short steps. Once they’ve access the administrative control panel, hackers can do anything from defacing your website, to committing identity theft or fraud in the name of your business. To prevent hackers from easily gaining access to your website, you’ll want to use strong passwords that are mix of letters and numbers. These alphanumeric password should be at least 10 characters in length. Try to avoid using any commonly used words or names. Also try not to use dates that are significant in your life, as a hacker may be able to access this information.

Firewalls

Firewalls filter information that is transferred to and from your website. By configuring a secure firewall, you’ll be preventing all unauthorized access to your website. Setting an industry standard firewall at the highest possible security preference is one of the best ways you can deter hackers with ease. Remember that simply having a firewall is not enough to keep you site safe. The firewall must be configured properly.

Antivirus

Make sure you use only the best antivirus programs. If your computer contracts a virus, the hacker that distributed this virus could gain access to sensitive information on your computer. Some viruses will install hacking utilities known as KeyLoggers, which record the data inputted from your computer’s keyboard. This means that everything you type is recorded and then sent to the hacker, including your system and website passwords.   It is imperative that you ensure that your antivirus program is regularly updated to the latest definitions. This will help you to protect your computer from hackers who attack your system in efforts of gaining control or information. Simply having an antivirus program installed is not enough. New viruses are created everyday, so it is important to keep your Antivirus program updated regularly.

Security Testing

Once you have all of the above security measures in place, you’ll want to test the security of your website routinely. Try to use a security analyzing tool regularly. These tools will usually find any existing security lapses and assist you in correcting them. Remember that in order to have good website security, these security measures must be practiced regularly.