(December 4, 2023) Software-as-a-service (SaaS) has upended traditional software deployment models as more companies seek the operational agility and management advantages of on-demand access to cloud-based apps. Recent studies find that nearly three-quarters of U.S. businesses are using SaaS, with most using well over 100 unique apps.
SaaS proved particularly valuable as organizations transitioned to remove and hybrid work models. Anytime, anywhere access to key business applications has allowed remote workers to remain efficient and productive. It has also introduced an element of risk, however.
Due to a persistent misunderstanding about the cloud’s basic security framework, most companies aren’t adequately protecting their SaaS data. According to an Enterprise Strategy Group study, a third of companies using SaaS never back up their SaaS data. Most are under the impression that SaaS applications don’t need to be backed up because the cloud provider is protecting their data.
That’s simply not the case. All cloud service providers operate under a shared responsibility model in which providers and customers are each accountable for different aspects of security. In general, SaaS vendors will secure their applications but customers must protect their data.
Data Loss Risks
Even those who understand shared responsibility often operate under another unfortunate misconception — that their on-premises backup infrastructure will protect SaaS data. That’s almost never true because SaaS data rarely touches onsite servers. When working with SaaS apps, users typically enter data directly into the cloud platform through a web browser.
These miscalculations often bring serious consequences. More than 80 percent of respondents to the ESG study reported SaaS data losses, and only 15 percent were able to recover all of it. In many cases, data losses included important documents, records and communications housed in Microsoft 365, Salesforce, Google G Suite and other prominent cloud apps. Companies are usually shocked to learn that cloud providers can’t restore their data.
There are numerous SaaS backup tools on the market that organizations can use to implement stronger data protection practices. Verified Market Research expects the SaaS backup market to see a compound annual growth rate of 16.2 percent through 2030.
Consider a Managed Solution
Choosing a SaaS backup product can be difficult, however. Because the backup software has to integrate with the SaaS application, not every solution works with every app. Many solutions are designed to work with particular SaaS product lines.
Different solutions may also have different backup targets. Most are built for cloud-to-cloud options, but some also provide an option for on-premises backup. Others allow you to securely back up SaaS data to any location, whether on-premises, with a service provider, or in public or private clouds.
Since most companies now use multiple applications and cloud platforms, a managed backup solution will offer more flexibility than a single product. A managed services provider (MSP) can use best-in-class solutions to create a comprehensive SaaS backup environment. MSPs can also leverage their tools and expertise to implement a robust backup strategy based on the 3-2-1 approach used for years in traditional on-premises environments — three copies of your data on two different storage media with one located offsite.
How Mainstream Can Help
The experts at Mainstream can help you implement a solution that protects your valuable SaaS data against ransomware attacks, accidental or malicious deletion, misconfiguration and other forms of data loss. Contact us to discuss your specific needs and objectives.
ABOUT MAINSTREAM TECHNOLOGIES
Mainstream Technologies delivers a full range of technology services in Arkansas and the surrounding region including managed technology services and consulting, custom software development and cybersecurity services. We also offer industry-leading data center services in our Little Rock facilities. Established in 1996, Mainstream has earned a reputation for delivering quality, reliable, and professional technology services for public and private-sector customers across the United States.
Jeff Pracht
IT Business Development Manager
(479) 715-8629 Office
(501) 529-0008 Mobile
