Cloud Security: Best Practices for Protecting Data in Hybrid Environments

As more businesses adopt cloud computing, hybrid environments—where organisations blend private, on-premises infrastructure with public cloud services—are becoming the go-to solution. This approach offers flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency, but it also introduces unique security challenges. Protecting sensitive data in hybrid environments requires a thoughtful combination of cloud security measures and on-premises protocols to safeguard against cyber threats while ensuring smooth operations.

At Logixal, we specialise in providing managed IT services, cloud solutions, and enterprise security. Here’s a guide to the best practices for protecting data in hybrid environments.

1. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

One of the most effective ways to safeguard your cloud and on-premises systems is by enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA requires users to provide two or more verification factors to access a system, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access.

In a hybrid environment, where employees are accessing systems from multiple locations and devices, MFA adds an essential layer of security. Even if a password is compromised, additional verification methods, such as a one-time code or biometric scan, will protect your systems.

2. Encrypt Data at Rest and in Transit

Encryption is crucial for protecting data in hybrid environments, especially as it moves between on-premises systems and cloud servers. Encrypting data both at rest (stored data) and in transit (moving data) ensures that, even if intercepted, it remains unreadable without the proper decryption key.

Logixal ensures that all sensitive data is encrypted during transfer between local networks and cloud platforms. This significantly reduces the risk of exposure in the event of an interception or breach.

3. Adopt a Zero Trust Security Model

Zero Trust is a security concept based on the idea that no user, device, or application should be trusted automatically, whether inside or outside the network. Every access request must be continuously verified before being granted, making it an essential approach for hybrid environments, where users access systems from a variety of locations.

To implement Zero Trust, businesses should ensure that every access request is authenticated and that privileges are assigned based on the principle of least privilege. At Logixal, we help companies build robust identity and access management systems, ensuring Zero Trust principles are enforced across both cloud and on-premises infrastructures.

4. Conduct Regular Security Audits and Compliance Checks

In hybrid environments, security standards can vary between your on-premises infrastructure and the cloud services you use. Conducting regular security audits will help identify potential vulnerabilities and ensure that your systems are in line with the latest compliance regulations, such as GDPR.

At Logixal, we recommend performing routine cloud security assessments to mitigate risks and ensure that your systems remain secure and compliant with all applicable regulations.

5. Develop a Strong Backup and Disaster Recovery Strategy

Although cloud storage is secure and reliable, a robust backup and disaster recovery plan is essential, particularly in a hybrid setup. Regularly backing up data, both in the cloud and on-premises, ensures that in the event of a breach or system failure, your business can recover swiftly.

Logixal assists organisations in developing disaster recovery strategies that are tailored to hybrid environments, ensuring minimal downtime and data loss.

6. Continuous Monitoring and Threat Detection

Cybersecurity threats evolve rapidly, and hybrid environments can be more vulnerable if not properly monitored. Continuous monitoring of network traffic, system logs, and user behaviour across both cloud and on-premises systems is key to identifying and responding to suspicious activity early on.

Using advanced tools such as Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems, Logixal provides real-time threat detection and response. Our Security Operations Centre (SOC) offers 24/7 monitoring, ensuring that potential threats are identified and addressed before they can cause damage.

7. Vet Your Cloud Providers for Security

In hybrid environments, businesses often rely on third-party cloud providers for part of their infrastructure. It’s essential to carefully vet these providers and ensure they follow strict security practices. Additionally, it’s important to understand the shared responsibility model for cloud security, knowing what your provider is responsible for and what you need to manage internally.

Logixal works closely with clients to ensure they understand these boundaries and implement the right security measures to protect their hybrid environments.

Conclusion

Hybrid environments offer flexibility, scalability, and cost benefits, but they also introduce unique security challenges. By following best practices—such as implementing MFA, encrypting data, adopting a Zero Trust model, and conducting regular audits—businesses can safeguard their data and maintain secure operations.

Logixal specialises in providing cloud solutions, managed services, and cybersecurity strategies tailored to hybrid environments. Whether you need help with monitoring, encryption, or developing a disaster recovery plan, our experts are here to ensure your business stays secure in today’s evolving digital landscape.

For more information on how Logixal can help secure your hybrid environment, feel free to get in touch with our team.