Expert issues cloud security warning

Date: 18th May 2011

Small businesses considering adopting cloud computing technology could be among those interested in the recent comments of one security expert.

Subbu Iyer, senior director of products, application lifecycle management software at HP, said newcomers to the technology will face substantial risks.

The expert explained that performance, availability and security are the top three inhibitors to a move to the cloud.

"Security was number one on that list – it's a huge concern. If you're moving a critical business process completely onto the cloud, the first area that chief information officers are concerned with is, 'Is it secure?'," he said.

"There are two specific areas in which security is playing a big role in the new economy in both cloud and mobile computing. There are a lot of applications being purpose-built for mobile phones – how do you ensure that those are secure?"

The expert added that the cloud represents a lot of opportunities for businesses but urged firms to proceed with caution.

Posted by Emily Smith