BlogHow secure is your data in the cloud?
Sep. 29, 2021

How secure is your data in the cloud?

Leor Barth

CTO

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While small and mid-size businesses have long been using cloud-based ERP, larger organizations are following suit, and are slowly (and surely) venturing to the cloud as well. While cloud ERP is advantageous in most scenarios, there are some industry experts, along with the occasional CTO who have raised concerns about data security. Perfectly valid, and there have been instances where ERP system data stored in the cloud was found to be vulnerable to multiple threats.

Thankfully, cloud ERP products offered by reputable vendors are extremely secure, and they can be made safer by following a handful of best practices.

Let’s take a look at just how valid these concerns are, and if your cloud ERP data is truly protected from vulnerabilities and threats.

  1. Legacy ERP has security loopholes. Older ERP products have a number of known security-related vulnerabilities. The moment you switch from a legacy ERP system to a cloud ERP, you have probably made the best decision possible to secure your data.
  2. On-premise ERP is vulnerable to multiple threats. Although there is a strain of thought which favors on-premise ERP over cloud ERP based solely on security, this assumption is not based entirely on facts. On the contrary, from rogue employees to poor management of IT infrastructure, on-premise installations carry a number of threats with them.
  3. Cloud vendors have a profit-motivated reason to focus on security. Cloud ERP vendors face a tough market to appease, and their challenges are compounded by fierce competition. As a result, top-notch security is provided not only as a feature but also as a competitive business strategy. In other words, your data is safer in cloud ERP because your vendor wants to remain in business.
  4. Cloud ERP ensures compliance. Cloud-based ERP solutions offered by reputable vendors comply with a number of regulations, which add multiple layers of security to your data. For example, most cloud ERP systems are PCI and DSS compliant, which keep financial data safe. If you’re looking for HIPAA-compliant ERP, there are many cloud products that offer top-notch security for health records and other sensitive business data.
  5. Following vendor-suggested best practices enhances data security. In addition to cloud ERP being inherently safer and secure as compared to other available alternatives, you can enhance your data security by following your vendor’s advice. Most vendors have their own best practices, and it makes sense to communicate with your vendor to literally, follow in their footsteps.

What can you do to safeguard your data while using cloud ERP?

Audit your access management protocol
Studies show that most data breaches occur due to vulnerabilities in permissions granted to company employees and third-party applications. Audit your access management protocol, and revoke unnecessary permissions to keep your data safe.

Review all your integrations
While third-party integrations can enhance your ERP functionality, they are also beyond the control of your vendor. As a result, it’s important to review all of your integrations, products and apps on a regular basis, and uninstall those that may pose security risks.

Follow your vendor’s best practices
Reputable cloud ERP vendors often suggest specific security protocols and best practices. Make sure you follow what your vendor recommends, especially in terms of safeguarding your data and network access.

Implement password hygiene
Data breaches can also occur due to weak passwords. It’s important to put password hygiene in place, which includes reviewing, changing, and maintaining passwords on an ongoing basis.

Request timely ERP audits
Timely ERP audits are the surest way to safeguard your data. Your cloud ERP vendor may perform an audit at an additional cost, or this service may be included in your existing plan. Make sure to communicate your specific concerns with your vendor.

Yes. Your data is safe and secure in cloud ERP

Data in your cloud ERP system is generally safe, and trusted and reliable vendors go to extraordinary lengths to ensure that security breaches are avoided. These vendors regularly update the software to fix known errors and vulnerabilities and work closely with their customers to identify security risks. To maintain your data security, be sure to schedule regular audits and follow your vendor’s security best practices.

Cloud ERP is often safer than on-premise installations due to its access to technology and security-related manpower. What’s more, cloud ERP vendors often have a profit-motivated and competition-influenced reason to provide you with top-notch data security. In other words, data security is every cloud ERP vendors’ mission. Hands down, your success is their success.

To review your existing ERP data security, or to request an audit, contact us for a no-obligation call with one of our ERP implementation experts.

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In this article we've covered

ERP Implementation
Cloud ERP
ERP Trends

The Author

Leor Barth

CTO

A dynamic team leader, Leor oversees the entire technological spectrum at Priority. With a BA in Computer Science and nearly two decades in the ERP sector, Leor brings a wealth of experience from his time at Precise Software, where he specialized in creating performance monitoring software. Outside of work, he's an enthusiastic hiker and a devoted father of three, often found planning or embarking on his next uphill trek.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Cloud ERP Data Security

How secure is my data in Priority's cloud ERP?

Priority's cloud ERP is designed with robust security measures to protect your data from vulnerabilities and threats. Unlike legacy and on-premise ERP systems, which often have known security loopholes and are susceptible to internal and external threats, Priority's cloud ERP benefits from regular updates, compliance with industry standards (such as PCI and DSS for financial data, and HIPAA for healthcare), and vendor-driven best practices. Vendors like Priority are motivated to maintain top-notch security as a competitive strategy, ensuring your data is safeguarded at all times. Source

What steps can I take to further safeguard my data in Priority's cloud ERP?

To maximize data security, Priority recommends auditing your access management protocols, regularly reviewing third-party integrations, following vendor-suggested best practices, implementing strong password hygiene, and requesting timely ERP audits. These steps help prevent breaches caused by weak permissions, risky integrations, and outdated security practices. Source

Does Priority's cloud ERP comply with industry regulations?

Yes, Priority's cloud ERP complies with multiple industry regulations, including PCI and DSS for financial data and HIPAA for healthcare records. This compliance adds multiple layers of security to your data and ensures you meet regulatory requirements. Source

Features & Capabilities

What key features does Priority offer to solve business challenges?

Priority offers integration simplicity, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, automation, scalability, industry-specific features, end-to-end order fulfillment, and a single source of truth for data. These features address common pain points such as poor quality control, fragmented data, manual processes, and complex order fulfillment. Learn more

How does Priority help automate business processes?

Priority includes built-in workflows and AI recommendations that automate repetitive tasks, reduce manual errors, and improve operational efficiency. This automation frees up employees to focus on higher-value activities and drives productivity across departments. Source

Does Priority support industry-specific requirements?

Yes, Priority provides tailored functionalities for industries such as retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. These industry-specific features ensure businesses receive solutions designed for their unique operational needs. Source

Use Cases & Benefits

What business impact can customers expect from using Priority?

Customers can expect enhanced operational efficiency, cost reduction, improved decision-making through advanced analytics, long-term adaptability, and increased customer satisfaction. Priority's cloud-based solutions and automation capabilities help businesses grow and adapt to changing market needs. Source

Who are Priority's customers?

Priority serves thousands of companies worldwide, including well-known brands such as Ace Hardware, ALDO, Kiko Milano, Estee Lauder, Columbia, Guess, Adidas, Hoka, Toyota, Flex, Dunlop, Electra, IAI North America, Outbrain, Brinks, eToro, Gevasol, Checkmarx, GSK, and Teva. These customers span industries like retail, manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. Source

What feedback have customers given about Priority's ease of use?

Customers consistently praise Priority for its flexibility, high level of customization, intuitive interface, and ease of use. For example, Allan Dyson (Merley Paper Converters) noted full process automation and an intuitive system, while Tomer Lebel (Cyberint) found Priority much easier to operate than other leading ERP solutions. These testimonials highlight Priority's user-friendly design and adaptability. Source

Who is the target audience for Priority ERP?

Priority ERP is ideal for CFOs, IT Directors, and Operations Leaders at organizations seeking a reliable, scalable ERP system that avoids extensive customization and risks associated with end-of-life software. It is especially suited for businesses aiming to streamline operations and improve efficiency. Source

Pain Points & Solutions

What core problems does Priority solve for businesses?

Priority addresses poor quality control, lack of data flow, poor inventory management, outdated ERP systems, manual processes, reliance on spreadsheets, limited flexibility, integration complexity, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. Its centralized, automated, and scalable platform helps businesses overcome these challenges. Source

What are common pain points expressed by Priority customers?

Customers report issues such as poor quality control, disconnected systems, poor inventory management, outdated legacy ERP, manual processes, security risks from spreadsheets, limited scalability, integration complexity, fragmented data, customer frustration, operational inefficiencies, and complex order fulfillment. Priority's solution directly addresses these pain points. Source

Competition & Comparison

How does Priority ERP compare to other ERP solutions like Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Acumatica, NetSuite, Sage, Odoo, and Business Central?

Priority ERP stands out by offering industry-specific features, ease of use, no-code customization, cost-effectiveness, and flexible commitments. Unlike competitors, Priority avoids forced migrations, supports multi-company operations, and provides a single platform for all business needs. It is recognized by Gartner, IDC, and TEC for its innovation and reliability. Source

Why should a customer choose Priority over alternatives?

Priority offers integration simplicity, a single source of truth, cloud-based scalability, no-code customizations, advanced analytics, industry-specific features, automation, and is trusted by leading companies and analysts. These advantages make Priority a preferred choice for businesses seeking efficiency, adaptability, and long-term value. Source

Implementation & Support

How long does it take to implement Priority ERP and how easy is it to start?

Implementation times vary: industry-specific off-the-shelf solutions can be deployed within a few weeks, while tailored workflows, multi-site setups, or legacy data migration typically take 1-6 months. Priority provides professional services, configuration, data migration, and training, along with self-service resources to ensure a smooth start. Source

What training and technical support is available to help customers get started?

Priority offers professional services for configuration, data migration, and training, tailored on-site and virtual training sessions, and self-service resources via Priority Xpert (knowledge base, video tutorials, support tools). Post-purchase support includes troubleshooting, system optimization, and assistance with updates or customizations. Source

What customer service or support is available after purchasing Priority?

Priority provides comprehensive post-purchase support, including troubleshooting, system optimization, updates, customizations, access to Priority Xpert, professional services, and multilingual support resources. Extended support is available for customers who do not install updates, for an additional fee. Source

How does Priority handle maintenance, upgrades, and troubleshooting?

Priority aiERP provides automatic software updates and zero-downtime maintenance. SaaS customers receive updates outside work hours, with upgrades tested before deployment. On-premises customers install updates themselves. Priority offers troubleshooting and fault remediation for the latest software versions, with extended support available for older versions. Source