Air Gapped storage is an important component of an effective data security strategy, as it provides an additional layer of protection for sensitive information. This type of backup solution ensures that data is completely isolated from the internet and other networks, making it much more difficult for malicious actors to gain access to the system and steal or manipulate its contents. In this article, we will look at why air gapped storage is essential for data security and discuss its key features, advantages, and limitations.
What is Air Gapped Storage?
Air gapped storage is a term used to describe a computing system that is isolated from other networks by either physical or logical means. It is also known as an ‘air gap’, and can be used to separate data from the internet, allowing it to remain secure in the event of an attack or intrusion. This isolation makes it much harder for hackers to gain access to the system, as there is no direct connection.
Types of Air Gapped Storage
There are two main types of air gapped storage:
Physical Air Gapped:
Physical air gapped storage involves the use of dedicated hardware that is not connected to any external network or device. This makes it impossible for an attacker to access data over the internet, as there is no direct connection. It also prevents malware from being transferred from other networks and devices, further protecting sensitive information.
Logical Air Gapped:
Logical air gapped storage involves the use of software or applications that are designed to restrict access to files and folders. This type of air gapped storage is typically used to prevent unauthorized users from accessing data stored on a computer or server.
Advantages of Air Gapped Storage
There are several key advantages to using air gapped storage, including:
• Increased Security:
As mentioned above, the physical and/or logical separation provided by air gapped storage makes it much more difficult for malicious actors to gain access to sensitive information. This additional layer of security is especially important when storing confidential data or highly sensitive files.
• Improved Availability:
Air gapped storage also helps improve the availability of data, as there is no risk of an external network being disrupted or compromised. This ensures that the data remains accessible even if a malicious actor attempts to breach the system.
• Cost Savings:
Air gapped storage is often more cost-effective than other forms of data backup, as there is no need for external networks or costly hardware. This makes it ideal for organizations that are looking to keep costs down while still maintaining a high level of data security.
Limitations of Air Gapped Storage
While air gapped storage does have many advantages, it also has some limitations. These include:
• Difficult to Manage:
Air gapped storage can be difficult to manage, as there is no direct connection between the system and other networks or devices. This makes it difficult for administrators to monitor the system and ensure that data is secure.
• No Remote Access:
Air gapped storage also prevents remote access, which can be an issue for organizations that need to access the system from multiple locations.
• Limited Scalability:
Finally, air gapped storage can be difficult to scale as more devices or networks are added. This can be an issue for organizations that need to expand their storage capacity in order to accommodate more data.
Conclusion
We hope this article has provided an insight into air gapped storage and its key features, advantages, and limitations. Air gapped storage is a great option for organizations that need to secure their data from external threats, as it provides an additional layer of security and improved availability. However, it is important to keep in mind the potential limitations of this system when deciding if it is the right choice for your organization.
By implementing air gapped storage correctly, organizations can ensure their data remains secure and accessible even in the event of a malicious attack.
FAQs
1. What is air gapped storage?
Air gapped storage is a type of data storage that uses physical and/or logical separation to protect sensitive information from external threats. It involves the use of dedicated hardware, software, or applications that are designed to prevent unauthorized access.
2. How does air gapped storage work?
Air gapped storage works by physically and/or logically separating the system from other networks and devices. This prevents data from being transferred or accessed over the internet, as there is no direct connection.