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Writer's pictureQuenten Grasso

What Does Shared Responsibility in the Cloud Data Protection Model Mean?

AI Generated person holding a tablet with a picture of a secure cloud above it.

G'day. I'm Quenten Grasso, the Managing Director here at Q10 Systems. I hope you're doing well and having a great day.

Cloud services such as Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Dropbox have revolutionised how companies manage and retrieve information conveniently and dependably. However, despite the shift in data handling practices, it's crucial to understand that these services do not offer a complete solution for your data. While they focus on ensuring service availability and uptime, they do not guarantee your data, even if it's accidentally deleted by these companies or compromised by cyber threats.

What Do They Truly Promise?

Services like Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and Dropbox prioritise ensuring users can easily access their files with minimal service disruptions. However, they do not offer assurances for your data in scenarios such as accidental deletion, file corruption, or cyberattacks. If your data is lost or compromised, these platforms may be unable to restore it.

Microsoft Cloud Shared Responsibility model

Google Workspace has faced service interruptions in the past. In December 2020, a significant outage impacted Gmail, Google Drive, and other services, leaving businesses without access to critical information. This incident highlights the platform’s vulnerability to disruptions. Also, Google Drive users reported missing files due to syncing issues, with some losing months of data. In December 2023, Google provided a partial fix for desktop users, allowing recovery of unsynced files using Google’s recovery tool. However, the fix doesn’t guarantee complete restoration for all users, especially those with older data loss issues. If unsuccessful, Google suggested other recovery methods, such as using backups. Shared responsibility in the cloud - Google

Google Cloud Shared Responsibility model

The Shared Responsibility Model

Cloud service providers operate under a shared responsibility model. This means that while companies like Microsoft and Google guarantee the availability of their platforms, it’s your responsibility to protect your data. These platforms do not automatically back up your data against accidental deletions, malicious actions, or ransomware attacks.

Why You Need a Backup Plan

Relying on these services without an additional backup plan can be risky. Human errors, cyberattacks, and insider threats are common causes of data loss. Without an automated backup strategy, your business could suffer significant consequences, including operational disruptions, financial setbacks, and reputational damage.

Using third-party backup services that offer automated daily backups can help safeguard your business against these risks. They provide peace of mind by ensuring that your data is protected and recoverable even in the worst-case scenario.

How Q10 Systems Can Help

At Q10 Systems, we specialise in providing Managed IT services and IT support to businesses in Townsville and Cairns. We understand the importance of safeguarding your business-critical data. Our team can design a comprehensive backup strategy tailored to your needs, ensuring your data is protected from accidental deletions, cyber threats, and more.

By partnering with us, you can rest easy knowing that your data is secure, recoverable, and well-managed. Whether using Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, or Dropbox, we have the expertise to ensure your business continuity. Contact us today at Q10 Systems to learn how we can help secure your cloud data and protect your business from unexpected data loss.

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