The growing use of cloud computing is redefining how organizations across the globe view their IT infrastructure. The benefits of cloud computing when it comes to cost, scalability, and flexibility are unprecedented. However, like any other technology, there exist security concerns attached to using the cloud effectively.

Cloud computing is essential in managing legal case management. There are several reasons to prove why cloud computing is essential in securing law firm data: backups, upgrades, disaster recovery, compliance, and security. Let’s take a look at them.

Backing up files on an external hard drive or USB flash drive is not only time-consuming but also a tedious process that involves disconnecting the device from its power source when it is full. If the hard drive contains vital information for your legal case management procedures, then there exists a high probability that you may forget to disconnect it from the system once the backup has been complete. Cloud-based solutions offer you instant access to back up your files irrespective of their size anytime anywhere since they run on the internet cloud infrastructure outside your premises thus reducing the risk of losing vital data.

Upgrading your network infrastructure with cloud-based solutions provides you access to a wide range of enterprise-level applications at a substantially less cost than upgrading existing on-premise systems. In addition, cloud computing enables you to upgrade software or hardware at any time and from any location that meets your requirements in terms of availability, flexibility, and scalability without disrupting your daily operations which is critical when it comes to managing complex law firm data. Upgrade costs will be considerably lower since there is no requirement for large amounts of equipment on-site to support new devices, plug-and-play memory cards, or onsite storage space such as backup tapes or external hard drives. All upgrades can be done remotely via the cloud at a time that is convenient for the user thus enabling efficient use of available resources for legal case management.

Cloud computing provides you with a secure method to access data in case of disasters such as fires, floods, and natural calamities via virtual circuits from anywhere across the globe especially if an organization has been forced to evacuate due to unforeseen circumstances. By storing sensitive information on the internet cloud infrastructure disaster recovery can be achieved without expensive hardware or software upgrades. In addition, all communication between endpoints using virtual circuits via the internet is encrypted which prevents prying eyes from viewing confidential data even if there is no physical security protecting your private network. Accessing legal case management files in times of disaster could also help temporary work locations used by displaced employees or law firms who have lost their premises due to damaging natural disasters.

Cloud computing offers a convenient and flexible solution to meet compliance standards without the installation and operational costs associated with on-premise infrastructure. The benefits of using the cloud when it comes to achieving compliance levels when compared to other technologies are because it reduces or eliminates issues such as hardware incompatibilities, upgrades that affect functionality, downtime during upgrades which can potentially lead to security breaches and other IT related risks that are typically associated with on-premise infrastructure. In addition, using cloud-based solutions for storing your law firm data helps you enhance access levels by removing security concerns with on-site storage of information that may be susceptible to fire, flooding, or other hazards thus ensuring your sensitive legal case management data is consistently backed up. In addition, the use of virtual private networks (VPN) coupled with encryption of all data before transmission offers the highest level of security standards that is compatible with international compliance guidelines.

When compared to other technologies, solutions provided by cloud computing providers are cost-effective and easier to manage since there are no upfront costs associated with purchasing expensive hardware or software upgrades that require additional storage space at your premises. The absence of large amounts of equipment on-site reduces operating expenses in terms of maintenance cost for example cooling systems thus reducing total cost over time for managing the network infrastructure. Using cloud-based solutions also helps you achieve maximum levels of flexibility and scalability while meeting compliance regulations without incurring prohibitively high upgrade costs for legal case management. Compliance costs are also reduced since there is no requirement for expensive hardware and software onsite which necessitates upgrades (if any) to be performed onsite by an organization's IT, team. In addition, the use of virtual private networks coupled with encryption of all data before transmission helps you achieve the highest level of security standards that is compatible with international compliance guidelines.

Using cloud computing enables law firms to take advantage of innovative technologies such as location-based services from mobile applications thus allowing employees to quickly identify the best possible legal solution for their clients without missing a beat in terms of communication between firm members or management officials. The mandatory constant connectivity through wireline and wireless broadband connections offered by cloud-based solutions allows law firms to meet their individualized needs while delivering legal case management services to their clients more effectively. The reduced need for physical infrastructure also helps law firms eliminate the constant overhead costs associated with hiring additional staff and maintaining hardware thus allowing them to use their funds on other important aspects of business operations such as enhancing technological expertise in order to provide better client care.

Lawyers seeking to prevent cyberattacks should take away two key takeaways. In order to protect your law firm's data, you should store it in the cloud. Additionally, there will be 24/7 convenience, security, and flexibility to access firm information, as well as protection from ransomware attacks. Second, use secure client portals for all communications and avoid unsecured email at all costs. By doing this, you can ensure that all of your law firm's client communications are protected, and you can ensure that your employees won't fall victim to spoofing and phishing emails.

Why not use cloud-based software and secure client communication portals if your firm doesn't already? Making this transition at this time is better than ever before.