#cloud - 使えるねっと

More and more companies are considering cloud storage because of its lower implementation costs and easier data sharing as compared to maintaining and managing their own servers. However, security is still the biggest worry. If this concern is not addressed, companies are unlikely to take the plunge with confidence.

In this article, we will examine how data security works and then take a deep dive into cloud storage safety.

Cloud (online) storage security

While the term "cloud" has become common in business, many people may still only have a vague idea of what it means. First, let's take a look at what cloud storage means, and then explore the characteristics and risks of cyber attacks.

What is Cloud Storage?

In the context of computers, smartphones, and tablet devices, storage is the built-in system and hardware for storing and managing data. External storage can be connected if the internal storage is insufficient, and it can also be used for backup and storage of previous data.

Cloud storage allows users to remotely access and use stored data and applications via the Internet. One feature is that users can purchase only as much as they need. Another is that because the cloud service provider maintains and manages the storage, users do not need extra professional staff.

Characteristics of cloud cyber attacks

Cloud storage can be low cost to install and easy to use, but are there any security concerns? Next, we will cover some of the typical cyber attacks to which the cloud is susceptible.

Man-In-The-Middle attack

A Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack, also known as a "bucket brigade attack," involves a cyber attacker intervening between a user and a service to steal or alter the data being exchanged. Even though it is a relatively old cyber attack method, recently, there has been a surge in its use.

How can a cyber attacker steal encrypted communication content? For example, suppose that two parties are using public key cryptography for communication. A cyber attacker intercepts one party’s message with a public key and sends a message with his own public key to the other party. The recipient, thinking the message is from the first party, sends data encrypted with the attacker's public key. The attacker receives the message in the middle and decrypts the data with his own private key. The attacker can then send a message to the first party that appears to be from the second party, with both parties being unaware that their encrypted communication has been compromised.

Unauthorized file access and hacking

Cloud service providers store a huge amount of data, including personal details, intellectual property, and confidential business and financial information. Such data is a treasure trove for hackers, making it a tempting target for unauthorized file access and hacking.

In fact, according to the "Status of Notifications of Computer Viruses and Unauthorized Access" report released by the Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA) in February 2021, the largest percentage of damage from unauthorized access reported in 2020 was to web servers (26.7%), followed by client PCs (13.1%). For many of us, the memories are still fresh of companies using cloud services, such as Rakuten, PayPay, Aeon, ANA, etc., that have fallen victim to unauthorized access since December 2020.

Tsukaeru FileBako data security

Let's take a look at the security measures implemented by Tsukaeru FileBako to protect cloud data from MITM attacks and unauthorized access by hackers as described above.

Completely secure communications with SSL/TLS

First of all, to protect your data from MITM attacks, all communications through Tsukaeru FileBako are based on SSL/TLS.

Technology that encrypts communications over the Internet, SSL/TLS prevents third parties from stealing or altering data. Websites protected by SSL/TLS have URLs that begin with "https" and are characterized by a key mark in the browser's address bar.

In SSL/TLS communication, an "SSL server certificate" is issued to guarantee that all communication between the server and the client is encrypted. By guaranteeing the website authenticity with a server certificate, MITM attacks mentioned above can be prevented.

Data encryption

According to a February 2020 McAfee survey of 1,000 companies in 11 countries, 91% of the cloud services used by companies did not encrypt the data they held. As the use of cloud services expands, so does the risk of unauthorized access, and FileBako is fully capable of encrypting data.

Data encryption on client terminals

Tsukaeru FileBako runs on client terminals, but all communication is AES encrypted to ensure security. The PC platform also uses Microsoft's encryption engine to protect files.

Data encryption on customer servers

All files are obfuscated in a renamed and expanded format so that hackers and attackers cannot find the files even if they try to break in. AES encryption is also used to encrypt data on customers’ servers, but only 256-bit keys, the highest level of encryption technology, are used to encrypt files.

Password protection

The password used to log in to Tsukaeru FileBako is hashed using a salt (a random string of characters added before the password is hashed) and saved to the system.

After login, client/server communication is conducted through APIs using tokens generated by the domain administrator, and no user names or passwords are used in API communication.

Tsukaeru FileBako: Easy and efficient to use

As explained above, Tsukaeru FileBako has all the security measures to counter your cloud service concerns.

Files stored in the cloud can be edited and organized in a familiar way, and unlimited files and folders can be shared with other users using web links. Also, there are flexible storage options depending on the amount of data needed.

Unlimited users are available from 9,800 JPY/month (10,780 JPY/month including tax), and a 14-day free trial is available to experience how easy it is to use.

Small and medium-sized businesses around the world are suffering from a chronic shortage of workers, and in reaction, many businesses are implementing IT solutions to make up the difference. However, while this can improve productivity, it also increases cyber security risks. The more that a company relies on IT, the greater the possibility of damage or stoppage from cyber attacks. As a result, appropriate security measures are becoming even more important for small and medium-sized businesses.

Cyber security threats are on the rise

In March 2019, the Information-technology Promotion Agency, Japan (IPA), an independent administrative agency, revised its information security measures guidelines for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the first time in more than two years. Referencing the increase of cyber security threats. IPA states that, "there are concerns that SMEs in the supply chain may be used as a foothold for targeted attacks on the companies they serve, and it is essential to take measures as soon as possible.” IPA also points out that SMEs often have less security awareness and inadequate measures compared to large companies and are therefore easier targets for attacks.

Cyber attacks: an ongoing problem

As an example of the threats that industries are facing, in 2017, the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) surveyed SMEs with 50 or fewer employees, mainly in the construction, manufacturing, wholesale, and service industries. Out of 315 companies, 97, or nearly 30%, had been affected by cyber attacks, and among them, 22 companies, or 7% of all companies, had been infected by ransomware. In addition, a 2019 OCCI supply chain survey revealed that while the supply chain partners of one in four companies had experienced cyber-attacks, approximately 70% were unaware of their supply chain partners' cyber-attack preparedness or damage.

What is ransomware?

Recently, ransomware is becoming a growing problem for businesses, including SMEs. The word is created from the combination of the words “ransom” and “software,” and can also be described as “ransom malware.”

When a computer is infected with ransomware, the stored data will be encrypted or the computer itself will be disabled. It is basically impossible to access the data or computer unless cash or virtual currency is transferred to the attackers’ designated account to obtain the encryption key. When a ransomware infection occurs, not only the computer but also all data in other externally connected storage devices can be encrypted, potentially causing tremendous problems and loss for SMEs.

Cyber security vulnerabilities

Cyber attacks are usually conducted by exploiting security vulnerabilities, but what are these vulnerabilities exactly? Simply put, they are weaknesses in a program. Computer operating systems and software often contain programming and design errors and defects. Obviously, during the development process, programmers constantly check for these problems. However, some vulnerabilities do not become apparent until the software is actually released to the market.

Therefore, IT companies that provide operating systems and software will release information about the potential problems or software updates as soon as the vulnerability is identified. However, if a malicious third party creates an attack method that targets the vulnerability before the update, a company's data may be exposed to cyber attacks.

Common tactics and countermeasures

As the three main routes of ransomware infection are websites, links and attachments in emails, and USB flash drives, the following measures are recommended to protect your company’s data:

・Infection prevention measures

The first step is to be aware of the above three infection routes and implement basic precautions to protect your company's computers. Email attachments or links should not be opened carelessly, and if there is a security concern, ask the sender for confirmation or check the extension of the attached file. Extra caution should be taken with compressed file extensions (.zip, .rar, etc.). Also, USB drives should not be used casually, even in the office.

However, no matter the vigilance of each employee, it is impossible to protect your computers and systems from cyber attacks. Therefore, it is extremely important to always update your computer's OS to the latest version to reduce vulnerability. It also goes without saying that you should install virus software and keep it updated, as well.

・Damage mitigation measures in the case of infection

Even with the above precautions, a ransomware infection is still possible, and you should plan accordingly. With a good backup system, you can restore your data even if you experience an attack. If backing up to an external storage device, make sure that it is not connected to the system to avoid the spread of infection.

Security: What is the perfect backup?

A backup is the process of duplicating the data on your computer and storing it separately in case of data loss or other unexpected situations. So, what is the best way to actually backup your important data?

The "3-2-1" backup rule

In the backup world, it is said that in order to perfectly protect your data, you need to follow the "3-2-1 Rule.” Originally proposed in 2012 by US-CERT, a security organization run by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, an operational component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, it was initially thought to be too time-consuming and impractical. However, as mentioned above, it is now being reevaluated as a rule to protect data from the growing frequency and sophistication of ransomware attacks in recent years.

Creating the backups

With only one or two backups, there is always a possibility that one or both may be lost or destroyed, as well as the original data. A third backup creates an extra layer of security.

Storing in two different media

If all of your data backups are in the same media, you could lose it all if the problem is related to the type of media. Storing it in a variety of media, such as DVD and hard disk, or tape and online, reduces the chance that one problem could wipe all your backups.

Backing up one copy to a remote location

What if your home or office catches fire? In Japan, earthquakes are relatively common, so it is possible that you could be affected by such a disaster. If all of your backups are in one place, they could be easily damaged or compromised. By keeping at least one backup in a remote location, you can be better prepared for different types of man-made and natural disasters.

Data protection with Tsukaeru Cloudbackup +

Cloud-based backup services are an excellent option that works perfectly with the 3-2-1 rule mentioned above. By storing your data in the cloud, your data will be backed up to a location separate from your physical office. It also stores your data virtually, providing a backup in a different media as compared to physical DVDs and hard drives.

We would like to introduce Tsukaeru Cloudbackup+, a cloud-based backup service from Tsukaeru.net. This innovative and reliable service is easy to set up, requires no capital investment, and backs up not only your files, but all your accounts, settings, and OS as well.

If you are considering a cloud-based backup service as part of your security measures, or if you are considering switching from your existing service, please contact us below.

According to a white paper on information and communications (FY 2020) by the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, 64.7% of companies use at least some form of cloud services, a dramatic increase from 44.5% in 2015. As this percentage is expected to continue increasing in the future, in our most recent article, we will examine the reasons that cloud computing has become an indispensable business tool, its background, and the basics of how to use it.

What is file sharing?

The fundamental concept of cloud computing, to put it simply, is file sharing. While almost everyone has read or heard the phrase before, let's reconsider what it means.

Previous Trends

File sharing, as the name implies, refers to the sharing of a file or folder between multiple users (such as other computers) for editing. Although file sharing has been used for some time in offices, it was mainly done on Windows, Mac, and other operating systems, and mainly shared within local area networks (LAN).

Future needs for cloud computing

However, as mentioned at the beginning of this article, cloud computing is becoming the primary method of sharing files, and the demand will continue to grow for the following two reasons:

1. Increasingly larger file sizes

In the past, the most common way to send a file was as an email attachment sent via LAN. However, large and larger files, such as images and videos, are shared for collaboration and can easily exceed the size limit for email attachments.

When using the cloud to share, there is no file size limit. Files can be saved on the computer in the cloud and a link sent to another person via email or chat message, allowing them to access it.

2. Increasing demand for remote work-related online collaboration

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bureau of Industrial and Labor Affairs, the April 2021 remote work implementation rate for companies in Tokyo (with 30 or more employees) was 56.6%. Remote work, which was quickly introduced in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to a decrease in physical office-based work and an increase in online collaborative work. Accessing the company server for file sharing or exchanging files via USB memory stick or external hard drive in the office is easy when employees are in the office. However, remote work requires different solutions, and cloud storage and file sharing services are becoming essential, regardless of the device or location. Also, new ways of working, such as "Workcation," a combination of vacation and work, are becoming popular. In order to be able to work anytime and anywhere with just a laptop, the use of the cloud is absolutely essential.

Advantages of cloud file sharing

As discussed above, the cloud allows file sharing regardless of the file size, the number of users, or location. The most attractive feature is that it frees you from the time and space limitations of the past and provides much more flexibility. Here are some other advantages of cloud file sharing:

・Data centralization

When sharing files via email or USB flash drive, any edits or updates must be returned with the same system. With repeated changes and exchanges, it is possible to lose track of the most current files, and mistakes can occur. However, with files stored in the cloud, all users will always have access to the latest version.

・Cost and labor reduction

Preparing, building, and maintaining internal servers requires not only money but also human resources. As the amount of data increases, it will be even more expensive to add more servers. In this regard, cloud services can be implemented at a low cost and with less time and effort of in-house maintenance and inspection. In addition, if a service with unlimited users (additional capacity can be purchased anytime) is chosen, you can flexibly adjust plans as your business grows and continue using secure and safe services.

・Effective BCP and DR measures

The COVID-19 pandemic has tested the ability of companies to respond to emergencies, which is especially relevant in Japan, where natural disasters are more common, it is important to always be prepared with an effective business continuity plan (BCP). If you rely on your own file server, there is always a possibility of data loss or damage to physical assets in the event of a disaster. However, a cloud service can be a much safer option especially if the data center is located in an area with a low risk of disaster.

Disadvantages of cloud file sharing

While there are many advantages to cloud file sharing, there are some issues to consider:

・Security concerns

Security is a common worry in regards to cloud file sharing. With company LANs, networks are built with a limited range and access. However, with cloud computing and its connection to the Internet, there is a small possibility that data and systems could be compromised. In this regard, cloud service providers implement various security measures including encryption or strong authorization systems. It’s important to compare the options and choose a service with stronger security measures.

・Limited customization

By building and maintaining your own servers, it is possible to design and customize them in detail, and if a problem occurs, your in-house staff can immediately investigate and respond appropriately. However, with cloud computing service providers and their scope of service, detailed responses and complete customization to meet the specific needs and circumstances of clients may not be available.

Tsukaeru FileBako: easy and efficient!

Tsukaeru FileBako maximizes the advantages of cloud file sharing while minimizing the disadvantages.

With a laptop, tablet, or smartphone, you can quickly and easily start remote working with the ability to access all your files and data from any location. Everything can be edited and organized in the cloud, and unlimited files and folders can be shared with other users using web links. There are also flexible storage options depending on your needs. Tsukaeru provides excellent security measures, including two-factor authentication, encryption, logging, and an ISO certified data center to protect your valuable data and systems.

For unlimited users, the cost starts at 9,800 JPY (10,780 JPY including tax), and our 14-day free trial allows you to try out Tsukaeru FileBako worry free!

“First Time Contract” campaign for Tsukaeru FileBako is now in effect until June 30 (Wednesday)!

For more details about the campaign, please contact us via the “Contact Us”button below.

For a long time in Japan, a method using a password-protected zip file was widely used to send and receive files for business purposes. In this method, an encrypted zip file is sent as an email attachment and the password is sent in a second email. However, this method is now considered to be a high security risk, and file sharing via cloud storage is now becoming the norm.

However, there are many different cloud storage services, and it can be difficult to choose the right one. In this article, we’ll discuss different plans, costs, functions, and security measures of cloud storage for corporations, as well as tips on how to choose the right service for your company.

First, let’s look at three main points to consider when choosing a cloud storage service: billing type, ease of use, and security measures.

Billing type

While the ease of use of a service is important, the implementation costs are often of the highest concern for businesses. This section explains the advantages and disadvantages of common billing types for cloud storage services.

Billing based on number of users

Advantages

Disadvantages

Billing based on storage capacity

In this type of fee structure, the cost is based on the desired storage capacity. There are usually a variety of plans available, and the ‘unlimited users’ option is a popular choice.

Advantages

・Work efficiency will increase as there is no need to restrict the number of accounts

・Unlimited accounts for employees and for external parties such as business partners

Disadvantages

・Storage space per user decreases as the number of users increases if the storage capacity cannot be changed

・Higher cost per user than the ‘billing by user’ type of service if there is only one or a few users

Ease of use

Ease of use is also important when choosing a cloud storage service. If your business efficiency tools are difficult to use, you can easily end up losing business. Consider the following two questions:

Do we have to learn a new system?

Employees are more comfortable and efficient using familiar systems. If they have to learn how to operate a completely new system to use a cloud storage service, it will take time and reduce productivity. You will also have to create manuals and conduct training which will require even more time and expense.

Can we easily share files and folders?

It is extremely important to confirm that you can share data in commonly-used formats (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and large files without any problems. Another key issue is the ability to share files with users outside your company and with a mobile device such as a smartphone.

Security measures

Security measures are probably the most important factor when choosing a cloud storage service. If they are inadequate and your data or system is compromised, you can lose the trust and confidence of your customers and business partners, all of which may lead to loss and a downturn in business performance. Here are some points you should consider when choosing a cloud storage service:

2FA

2FA stands for “Two-Factor Authentication.” The standard first step is to authenticate the user with a user identification and password. If that is confirmed, a second factor is used to further authenticate the user. In general, 2FA is based on two of the following three elements: something known only to the user (PIN, password, etc.), something possessed only by the user (cash card, smartphone, physical token, etc), or a unique characteristic of the user (face, fingerprint, etc.).

Access restrictions

From a security perspective, the stricter the access restrictions on shared folders and files, the safer you will be. However, this can cause inconvenience for users. A balance of security and convenience can be found by setting up detailed user permissions to access the shared folders/files or by restricting access by device.

Log monitoring and version control

Log monitoring allows administrators to see the account activity for each user, such as deletion, upload, and login history. You should also check to what extent file version control is available.

What Tsukaeru FileBako can do

Tsukaeru FileBako is a new cloud storage service that creates a new work style that allows users to connect with anyone, anywhere, anytime. Featuring an unlimited number of users, you can share, edit, and synchronize files on any device.

1. Unlimited number of users

While most other companies have one-user-one-license systems, Tsukaeru’s economical Business Plan is available starting from only 9,800 JPY (10,780 JPY with tax included) per month, regardless of the number of users. In addition, it comes with a generous 1TB capacity.

For example, with 100 users, the cost would be approximately 100 JPY per user per month. If slightly less capacity allocated per user is acceptable, for 1,000 users, the cost would only be 10 JPY per user per month. All corporate plans have no limit on the number of users and provide flexibility when dealing with sudden increases in staff at no extra cost.

2. Add, edit, and share files with a familiar system

Tsukaeru FileBako is a file server type cloud storage service. You can enjoy all the benefits of the cloud with the familiar folder structure and operation system. Adding, editing, and synchronizing files is almost the same as using Explorer on a desktop computer. With no file size limit, there is no need to deal with a common cloud storage error message: "The import file is too large to upload.”

3. Secure and easy file restoration and version control

While there are many large capacity, low cost cloud storage solutions, the security of your most important files and data should be your highest priority! With a Tsukaeru FileBako, it is easy to easily share files with external users or team members with just a few clicks. Web links for sharing can be set with passwords and expiration dates, ensuring even higher levels of security. It is also possible to create shared folders for collaborative projects and to control folder access permissions for each user.

Why choose Tsukaeru?

Tsukaeru’s cloud services have been used by customers all over Japan for more than 20 years.

1. Ideal location for cloud service data center

Because Tsukaeru’s data center is located in Nagano Prefecture in Central Japan, data can be accessed at a much faster speed than services relying on overseas data centers. In addition, Nagano Prefecture is far from the Tokyo metropolitan area and is relatively disaster resistant, making it very effective for BCP.

2. Excellent customer support

All of the Tsukaeru customer center staff are dedicated in-house operators and are available to help you solve your problems with our extensive expertise and experience. We can be reached not only by phone, but also by e-mail and chat, so you can rest assured that we will be there when you need us.

If you are interested in Tsukaeru FileBako, please feel free to contact us. We'd even be happy to set up a free trial for you!

To improve your company’s performance, improving business efficiency is an important step. One of the best ways to maximize that efficiency is through the smart use of IT tools.

In any industry, cloud computing is now essential, but only approximately 30% of companies use it for data backup. In this article, we’ll take a look at cloud backup, not only an effective time saver but also excellent disaster preparation.

Effective time saving tools

According to the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications survey on telecommunications usage trends for fiscal year 2019, 64.7% of all companies in Japan use cloud services. The most common use was for file storage and data sharing, an efficient way to save time as compared to the traditional use of paper-based files and email attachments.

While there are many tools to improve business efficiency and productivity, it is important to clearly define the purpose of their introduction. If just based on the vague concept of "saving time," the results may not be worth the effort to implement the tool.

BCP（Business Continuity Plan) and DR（Disaster Recovery)

Data backup is another reason for adopting cloud services. According to the survey mentioned above, 31.4% of all companies in Japan use cloud services for this purpose, not only to protect against human error, but also as risk management for large-scale disasters. Cloud-based backups should be part of your business continuity plan (BCP), allowing your company to continue or quickly recover its core business while minimizing damage when faced with a natural or man-made disaster.

DR (Disaster Recovery) is a similar concept to BCP, but it differs in that BCP focuses on the whole business, while DR focuses on the recovery and restoration of data and computer systems that have been affected by disasters or terrorist attacks. Think of BCP as an umbrella plan and of DR as part of that plan.

What is Disaster Recovery (DR)?

As mentioned above, disaster recovery refers to the recovery of data and systems that have been affected by a disaster, as well as the policies and procedures to be taken.

The key elements in DR are RPO (Recovery Point Objective) and RTO (Recovery Time Objective).

As briefly mentioned in a previous article on backup testing, RPO is an indicator of the maximum length of time in which data might be lost when restoring your system after a disaster. For example, if the RPO is set at 0 seconds, data loss will be avoided regardless of when the disaster occurs. However, if the RPO is set as the previous backup, all data from the most recent backup until the time of the disaster will be lost.

In contrast, RTO refers to the maximum acceptable time that your systems can be down after a disaster. For disaster recovery, the shorter the RTO, the better. For example, if the RTO is set to one hour, data and system recovery must be completed within one hour of the disaster occuring.

Why is DR necessary?

As more IT tools are used to improve business efficiency, so does the amount of important company information stored in the system as data. The impact of a huge data loss due to a disaster or the inability to access the system for an extended period of time can be immeasurable.

According to Infrascale's Disaster Recovery Statistics (2015), one hour of downtime can cost a small business $8,000, a medium business $74,000, and a large business $700,000. Companies without a DR plan in place may be forced to suspend business, thus lose the trust of customers and suppliers, and may be exposed to information leakage risks.

Case Study (Europe): Post-fire data restoration through DR implementation

On March 10, 2021, a fire broke out at one of OVHcloud’s four large data centers in Strasbourg, France, located along the Rhine River. As a major European cloud service company with more than 1.5 million customers worldwide, it is easy to imagine the amount of data that OVHcloud was managing.

Immediately after the fire, the company announced their recovery plan and had their servers up and running again 10 days later. Although some data was lost due to the fire, the company was able to minimize the damage due to its DR planning during normal times.

How to select the best system for DR measures

In terms of DR effectiveness and cost, there are two major types of systems for consideration.

1．Tape drive backup (cost: high, RTO: very long)

As the name implies, this is a method of backing up data on a "tape" drive. The main advantage is that it is easy to move data as it is stored on a physical medium. However, it is necessary to consider the environmental conditions for storage and the operational costs involved, such as follows:

・Room temperature and humidity must be strictly controlled, requiring a storage location with proper environmental controls outside the office.

・The complexity of such a system requires more expertise and specialized equipment than other backup methods, resulting in higher maintenance costs.

When trying to restore data stored on tapes, it is possible that data may be lost due to poor storage conditions. Also, repeated physical handling may damage tapes which can cause data loss.

Because of these concerns, backups to external disks or the cloud are becoming the mainstream as new alternatives to tape.

2. Remote network backup (cost: high, RTO: short)

A second method is to back up data to a different location through a network. This is effective for DR as backup data are stored in a separate location from the main data. In addition, although the restoration process still requires a restore, RTO can be kept to a shorter time compared to tape media.

However, the cost is usually higher because a separate backup location must be maintained by the company.

The importance of data replication

Data replication creates a backup system from the original data, allowing for an immediate switchover in the event of a failure. This can be considered as a “duplication" of the system. This backup system will continue to operate at all times, an extremely effective DR solution from the perspective of RPO.

However, this replication can be very costly if you create and maintain the system yourself; it could cost as much as operating your main system. Also, if the main data are affected by a virus, it will be replicated directly into the backup system.

Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + features and benefits (cost: low, RTO: short)

Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + automatically backs up the entire system according to the customer’s settings. As a cloud-based backup, no hardware or other equipment is required, lowering the initial and operation costs.

In general, the cost of implementing data replication as a DR solution is quite high. However, Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + minimizes the cost of maintaining duplicate systems through system replication while also reducing RTO to an incredibly short period of time.

Tsukaeru Cloud Backup +: The low-cost, labor-saving solution

Protect your data at the low cost of 30 JPY per day/0.98 JPY per 1.0 GB, depending on the capacity you need. Also, as a cloud-based backup, there is no need for specialized IT or security knowledge or complicated setting management. Furthermore, since the entire system image is backed up at once, backup time can be significantly reduced compared to normal file backup.

Cloud Backup + is available to try for free for 30 days, so please consider trying it out to see if it fits your DR needs.

A server can be indispensable for running a website and other applications.
hoosing the right server is crucial to ensure stable website operation. However, with so many server options, it is easy to get confused about which one to choose.

In our newest article, we will discuss what to look for when choosing a server and share tips on how to choose the right one.

What is a server?

In order to create a website and publish it on the Internet, you need a space called a "server." This is where the necessary elements and files (text, images, videos, etc.) are stored for your website.

This server can be set up by a company or an individual, but usually, you must build, maintain, and
troubleshoot the server on your own. These challenges are often why many companies take advantage of renting a server. By signing up for a service, the management of the server is the responsibility of the service provider, and there is no need to prepare your own physical server.

Points to consider before choosing a server

There are many corporate options available, and choosing the right one for your company can be a daunting task. Therefore, when choosing a server, it is important to understand your needs and other important points in advance.

Estimate website traffic

One of the first steps is to determine how many users will access your website. This will help clarify the importance you should place on the specifications needed. If the server specs and the corresponding transfer volume are not sufficient for the expected traffic volume, problems can easily occur.

Determine your needs and budget

When choosing a server service, make sure you know exactly what you are looking for to meet your needs. In this way, when examining similar options, you will be able to choose the best server based on your predetermined priorities. A clear understanding of your available budget beforehand is also important.

How to choose the right corporate server

Below are some tips on how to choose the best corporate server for your needs. If you are considering a new server contract or switching to a new provider, please refer to this section.

Understanding the different types of servers

There are three main types of servers for rent: shared, VPS, and dedicated. Let's take a look at the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each type.

Shared server

A shared server is a service in which multiple users share a single physical server. As the cheapest option, it is very popular for those with simple needs (website operation, mail account management, etc.). On the other hand, customization can be limited, and performance may be affected by other users.

If we compare it to a house, a shared server is a "share house" with individual bedrooms but a communal kitchen, bathroom, etc. The landlord (Tsukaeru in this case) manages the common areas, while the tenants manage the inside of their own rooms. This is recommended for those who want to operate in the common areas to a set specification but do not want to spend a lot of time managing them.

VPS

A virtual private server (VPS) is a service that uses virtualization technology to divide a single physical server to provide separate virtual servers for each user. Each virtual server has its own independent environment (individual memory, disk, software, etc.) which is hardly affected by the other virtual servers.

A VPS can be compared to an "apartment." It has high specs and flexibility, the price is reasonable, and the cost performance is excellent.

The difference between a VPS and a shared server is that the administrative rights are with the tenant who can customize by remodeling (changing OS, building applications, etc.) in the apartment. However, knowledge about the operation is required. As this is a good compromise between a shared server and a dedicated server, it is recommended for corporate users.

Dedicated server

A dedicated server is a service that provides a single physical server for your use only. This option offers the highest degree of freedom and stability but at a slightly higher cost.

This type of server allows you to manage the entire physical server, creating the image of a "single-family home." High-performance, stable, highly scalable, and customizable as desired, it is also not influenced by other users. However, the cost can be rather high, and specialized knowledge is required for operation, making a dedicated server more appropriate for advanced users.

Specifications: CPU and memory capacity

Depending on the server specifications, there are differences in the speed and response for website access. In particular, you should pay attention to the central processing unit (CPU) and memory values. The higher the values for both, the better the performance. Of course, you should also pay attention to the disk space and estimate how much you will need with some margin for safety.

Network connection: check the speed and transfer rate

The strength of the network line varies between servers. If you are expecting a large amount of traffic on your website, pay attention to the network line speed when choosing a server. In addition, be aware that some servers have transfer volume limits (e.g., up to XX GB per month).

Automatic backup service: a must for business use

It is a good idea to have an automatic backup service in place just in case. With this service, if something as simple as accidentally deleting a file from your website or something even more serious occurs, you can quickly restore what you need. When renting a server for business purposes, this is basically a must-have feature.

Support: a common blind spot in choosing a server

One often overlooked issue when choosing a server is the level of customer and technical support. A high level of support provides peace of mind and confidence when problems occur or when you have questions. It is also important that there are a variety of communication channels available, such as phone, email, and chat.

What is the best corporate option?

If you are in the market to rent a server, we recommend Tsukaeru servers, which are used by many companies and organizations throughout Japan. In particular, Tsukaeru Cloud VPS is a popular service with a reputation for its reasonable price, ease of use, and excellent customer and technical support. One of the many reasons for this service’s popularity is the wide variety of plans that can be used for various purposes by individuals and corporations.

Stress-free website management with Tsukaeru Cloud VPS

Currently, Tsukaeru Cloud VPS is running a special campaign that offers up to 50% off the usage fee. In addition, with a new contract for one year or more, the initial cost will be waived. The campaign is only available until April 28, 2021, so please take this opportunity to check it out.

The Internet, social media, and smartphones have all become integral parts of our lives. We can keep in touch with our friends, check the news, go shopping, etc. However, while this may make our daily lives more convenient, there are some new problems that have appeared. One of the most significant ones is "online privacy.”

Is your online privacy really safe?

As the Internet becomes more and more integrated into our society, online privacy is becoming just as important as privacy in real life.

For example, if your online shopping account password is revealed to a third party, your personal information such as credit card number and home address could be at risk. Even without a password leak, there is still a possibility that you could be identified from the photos and information you post on social media or even be a victim of online stalking.

Growing global interest in personal data privacy protection

More recently, internet users’ concerns about personal data being collected by websites and online advertisers have been on the rise worldwide. Most websites and social media sites collect data such as user demographics and website page browsing history for targeted advertising and other purposes. To guard against potential problems, there are specific actions that internet users can take.

Seven steps to protect your data privacy

So, what can an individual do to better protect online data privacy? Here are seven ideas to help you do just that.

1. Set a strong password

Create and use a complex password with a combination of letters and numbers at a minimum. A mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols is even more effective.

2. Don’t use the same password for multiple sites

If you use the same password for multiple sites, all of them are at risk if one is compromised. Even if you have a basic password and use only one different character for each site, this is much safer than using the exact same password. If you can't remember that many passwords, there are many free and paid password managers you can use.

3. Think before clicking "I agree"

When visiting a website for the first time or installing an app, you often see a message about the "Privacy Policy" or "Data Collection Policy," Do you usually just click "I agree" without considering what it means? While it may take more time, you would be wise to take a look at the policies of that site or app. Increasing your awareness of online privacy on a regular basis will help you protect your personal information.

4. Review your privacy settings

Recently, many social media and search services have begun to offer detailed "Privacy Settings" management screens. It is highly recommended that you check and review the privacy settings and details for each and every item.

5. Review your social networking use

Do you usually casually post information about yourself, your neighborhood, your children, etc. on social media? Although major social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram have taken measures such as automatically removing location information from posted photos, it is still possible to discover personal information from what you post. You should always keep in mind that people other than your friends and followers may see your posts and be cautious when posting.

6. Use two-factor authentication

More and more services are offering a two-factor authentication option that combines not only password entry but also email, SMS, or app authentication. With two-factor authentication enabled, even if your password is compromised for some reason, the risk of someone stealing your personal information or logging in illegally is greatly reduced.
Two-factor authentication has also been implemented in the Tsukaeru cloud service to protect the personal information of our customers.

7. Make it a habit to back up data

In the end, you are responsible for protecting your online privacy and digital data! However, it shouldn’t be something that you need to remember to do! Taking actions to protect your data on a regular basis should be a habit, especially for files, folders, and information that you use for work. It is very important to back them up properly to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

Choosing the right backup solution for you

When it comes to backup solutions, an essential component of data protection, the most important thing is to choose a solution with security and peace of mind. Tsukaeru Cloud Backup combines simplicity of use with the highest level of state-of-the-art security to create the perfect service for business backups. The all-in-one solution Tsukaeru Cloud Backup + (Plus), which integrates backup functions with security management tools, is also becoming more popular. Please visit the links below to learn more.

Daily backups are essential for protecting corporate data. They are an important part of ensuring that business can continue as normal even in the event of unexpected situations such as natural disasters or PC problems.

However, did you know that just making backups is not enough for the minimum BCP (Business Continuity Plan) and DR (Disaster Recovery) measures? In this article, we will introduce the concept of backup testing (restore testing) that should be considered in conjunction with regular backups.

What is backup testing?

Backup testing refers to testing and confirming during normal operations whether or not the backed-up data can be properly restored.

Even if data is backed up regularly and correctly, it will be meaningless if the backed-up files and folders cannot be restored in an emergency.

It's easy to think, "I always back up my data, so I'm fine." However, not surprisingly, problems can still occur. In fact, approximately 1/3 of all companies experience difficulties when restoring from backup data.

Why are backup tests necessary?

As evidenced by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, unforeseen events can affect businesses and society. As Japan regularly experiences earthquakes and typhoons, it is important to be prepared for all contingencies.

Under such circumstances, data and system backups are now becoming an essential part of corporate risk management. However, while most companies have backups, many have not actually tested them.

Without a backup test, there is no way to know if your data can be restored in a crisis. If it cannot be restored, not only will all the time and money spent on backups be wasted, but for small and medium-sized companies and startups, there is also a risk that it will directly lead to a business continuity crisis.

In order to make your regular backups truly meaningful, backup testing is an extremely important task that should not be neglected.

What is checked in a backup test?

In the backup test, it is important to check not only whether the backed-up data can be restored without any problems, but also whether the assumed RPO (recovery point objective) and RTO (recovery time objective) can be met.

RPO is expressed as a time measurement from the loss event to the most recent preceding backup. In other words, it refers to the amount of time that has passed since the last backup. For example, if you make regular backups every day, your RPO is 24 hours. In the event of an incident, data modified or newly created after the latest backup will be lost. With a backup test, it is necessary to confirm whether the data saved at the RPO point and set in advance can be restored properly.

On the other hand, RTO refers to how much time (targeted valued) an application can be down without causing significant damage to the business. For example, if you decide that three hours is the maximum downtime that is acceptable for your company, then your RTO is three hours. Businesses must determine what is an acceptable RTO and plan accordingly. A backup test will confirm if the determined RTO can be met.

How often should backup tests be performed?

Only performing backup tests occasionally and randomly is insufficient and dangerous for business. In order to ensure the effectiveness of backups and backup tests, it is essential to conduct tests on a regular basis. If possible, try to run backup tests at least once a month or so.

However, conducting a backup test for all the data every month can be a burden on your resources. Therefore, it is recommended to perform a partial restore test of particularly important or high-risk data on a monthly basis, and a complete restore test of all data on a semi-annual or annual basis.

Why is the cloud the best choice for backup?

In regards to backups, until a few years ago, site backups were the norm, saving data to an internal server. However, in the past few years, more and more small and medium-sized businesses, as well as large corporations, have been making the transition to cloud backup. For the following advantages, it is gaining popularity as a smart choice for today's times:

Tsukaeru Cloud Backup is affordable and easy to use!

The Tsukaeru Cloud Backup service provided by Tsukaeru.net is a complete cloud-based backup solution that can be easily introduced without the need for extra equipment or initial costs. This high-quality cloud backup service is easy to use, safe, and affordable and has been well received by our clients nationwide.

• Simple: Protects all data, including OS, with just five minutes of setup.

• Secure: Data is encrypted with AES-256 in your environment and transferred with AES-256.

• Affordable: Data protection measures start from 30 JPY per day/0.98 JPY per 1GB regardless of how much space you need.

A 30-day free trial is currently available, allowing you to experience all the benefits of cloud backup without any cost. To find out more, please contact us using the form or call us at the telephone number below.

Click here for details of the Tsukaeru Cloud Backup service.

Call toll-free: 0120-961-166

Office hours: 10:00-17:00

"Cloud storage" has lately become a popular term. However, many people say, “It sounds convenient, but I'm not sure exactly why I need it."

Today, we’d like to explain the basics of cloud storage and its use. In reality, cloud storage is an extremely useful tool with a variety of applications, from file sharing to collaborative work to accounting data management!

What is cloud storage?

Cloud storage is an Internet-based data storage system that allows you to store and access information in different ways.

Normally, work-related files and folders are stored on a company's computers. In most situations, the data are stored on the physical hard disk of the computer.

In contrast, with cloud storage, the files and folder are stored in the "cloud," while the same data remains on the hard disk of the computer. Cloud storage provides a secure space that can be accessed via the Internet.

Advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage for corporations

You may be thinking, "Why should I bother storing my files in the cloud?" There are several advantages to cloud storage for your files and folders, including the following:

　・Data is backed up in the cloud, so if your computer system crashes or is infected by a virus, your files and folders will still be safe!

　・Because cloud storage can be accessed via the Internet, you can check documents not only from your computer but also from your smartphone.

　・Even if the volume of your data increases as the years go by, you can store as much as you want by changing your plan to increase your cloud capacity! There is no need to buy a new computer or add a new hard disk!

　・Cloud storage files will reflect changes made in real-time, making for more efficient collaboration with colleagues and business partners.

In other words, cloud storage makes it easier to collaborate and work both internally and externally. There is also the convenience of being able to check and modify documents anytime and anywhere.

In addition, because cloud storage allows you to access your files from outside the office, it is a perfect match for remote work, which has become more and more necessary recently. Also, as you can automatically backup your files to the cloud, it is an ideal solution for promoting and supporting work style reform.

On the other hand, the following points are often pointed out as disadvantages of cloud storage:

　1. Files will not synchronize when offline or if the internet connection is unstable.

　2. The introduction of a new service can require extensive employee training.

　3. While convenient to be able to access files outside the company, further security measures may need to be implemented.

When considering the implementation of cloud storage, it is recommended to examine both the advantages and disadvantages when looking at options and actually try out the service for a trial period to see how it feels.

In order to avoid the above disadvantages, the following features are provided with Tsukaeru Filebako:

　1. You can set "Always Sync" for each file so that you can view the file offline.

　2. File uploads, download links, and shared links can be created from Explorer (Windows) or Finder (Mac OS) by changing the storage folder from C drive to U drive.

　3. Two-factor authentication, AES 256-bit encryption, audit reports, log monitoring, remote data deletion, and other security features provide peace of mind.

Using the cloud to manage accounting data

For many businesses and sole proprietors, taxation and accounting procedures, as well as management, can be especially annoying. Because it is a complicated system, and there are many required documents, it is often put off until the last minute.

However, of course, there is no escape from these tasks just because they are complicated. In addition, it is necessary to properly manage the accounting books and other documents even after the work is completed, as they are required to be kept for a certain period of time. It is also important to organize them in a way that is easy to understand and quickly retrieve the right documents if something happens later.

It requires a great deal of effort and time to manage all of this, and it is not an easy task. This is one reason we recommend that you manage your accounting data in the cloud as well as with paper documents.

How to use the cloud to efficiently manage accounting data

In this section, we'll introduce specific ways to use the cloud to efficiently manage your accounting-related information! These tips can help you avoid troubles with managing and storing your accounting data:

1.Create accounting data shareable within the company

Nowadays, online accounting management software is becoming more and more popular, and many people use it on a regular basis. However, there are still many situations where you need to create and manage data in common file formats such as PDF files and Excel files that can be opened with any software.

In such cases, it is recommended that accounting data files are stored in cloud storage because the creation, updating, and modification of files by different members of the accounting staff will always be in one place and automatically synchronized. Because the entire team can share the latest data in real time, miscommunication or mistakes due to a lack of coordination or complicated version control can be reduced.

2.Manage accounting work remotely

With the recent COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have introduced remote work. However, remote workers face various challenges, such as how to access and manage business data and how to work collaboratively in teams.

Cloud storage is the perfect tool to solve these remote work issues. By managing all files and folders necessary for business and accounting operations with the cloud, employees can access data from their homes without complicated procedures. They can also easily collaborate with their team to modify files in real time without the need for any special settings.

3.Share documents with accounting firms and tax accountants

Companies usually have to exchange documents with internal and external tax accountants and accounting firms. The best cloud storage services for corporations allow for secure file sharing by simply sending the created shared link, eliminating the need to encrypt and attach the file to an email every time.

Tsukaeru Filebako: low cost and easy to use

Tsukaeru Filebako is a low-cost, popular cloud storage service that is easy to install and use – even for beginners! In addition to its large 1TB capacity, Tsukaeru Fileback allows an unlimited number of users. A free trial of the service is also available for a limited time, so you can discover if it is the right solution for your needs without spending any money. If you are interested in learning more, please feel free to contact us.

Click here for more information about Tsukaeru Filebako.

If you are in the IT industry, you have to have heard the word "backup" at least once. And lately, you have definitely been hearing the term "cloud backup" more and more.

Think about your own situation. When was the last time you backed up the data on the computer in front of you?

Sometimes problems come out of the blue

It’s a typical morning. You arrive at the office and turn on the computer…

But what if your computer suddenly won't start up? Or later when you're in the middle of writing a report in MS Word, your computer crashes and automatically reboots?

Many of us have experienced these kinds of problems in our daily life or at work. These things just happen.

While we all hope this does not happen to us, unexpected problems like those above are not uncommon. In addition to computer crashes, there are many other possible situations, such as data transfer failure, file loss, or batteries finally running out of power. When these things happen, valuable data can be lost.

Backup basics

Backing up is the process of duplicating or copying the data on your computer in case something goes wrong. This is especially important for large files that take a long time to create. It is a good idea to keep copies in several different locations, such as on an external hard drive, USB, or in the cloud.

Microsoft Office applications also have an auto-save function that can be utilized if necessary.

If you haven't paid much attention to this up now, you should definitely start with these following steps to protect your important data.

1.Choose and begin using a backup method, such as mentioned above.
2.For manual backups, create and follow a backup schedule.
3.When using Microsoft Word, make sure autosave is enabled.

What is cloud backup?

"But backing up is such a pain…”

There are many such people in the world. This is where the importance of cloud backup becomes apparent.

Cloud backup is a method of backing up your files and data to a cloud-based server or storage space on the Internet. Since it is not a physical backup, there is no need to use your own USB memory stick or external hard drive or to set up an internal backup server. All you have to do is sign up for a cloud backup service, complete the initial setup, and you're good to go.

Cloud backup benefits

Simple and easy

Setting up and using cloud backup is, above all, incredibly easy to do. All you need to do is register with the service, install the software, set up the initial settings (and regular backup settings), and then the software will back up your files and folders to the secure cloud storage all on its own.

Relatively low price means cost savings

While there is a monthly fee, there are no large initial investments needed to create a server or expenses to deal with unexpected server problems, keeping the overall costs usually much lower. This is a perfect solution for those who want to keep backups but also want to save money.

Corporate services provide security

Corporate cloud backup services generally offer better security measures than services for individuals.

Cloud backup disadvantages

Of course, cloud backup is not always the best solution for all situations. Be sure to keep these potential issues in mind when examining your options.

Internet connection required

As cloud backups utilize their servers via the Internet, they need to be connected to back up files and data. Also, it is not just enough to be connected to the Internet; a stable and fast connection is necessary to some extent.

Slow backup speeds

Depending on a company's Internet environment, backup speeds may be slower than when backing up to a local server or other location within the company.

Is cloud backup the new norm?

Cloud backup has both advantages and disadvantages, but in recent years, its adoption is gradually increasing among small and medium-sized companies. It may soon become a mainstream backup method for companies in the future, as it is perfectly compatible with remote work.

Protect your files and data with Tsukaeru Cloud Backup

Tsukaeru Cloud Backup is a revolutionary cloud-based backup service that allows you to back up all the applications, files, accounts, settings, and even the OS on your computers without the need for any capital investment. This service is popular for its easy setup and usage, a low cost of 30 yen per day/1GB from 0.98 yen per day, and a focus on security measures.

If you are in the market for backup or cloud services, or are considering switching from an existing service, please feel free to contact us to learn more.
As an added incentive, we are currently offering a 30-day free trial!

Click here for details on Tsukaeru Cloud Backup.
Contact us at Tsukaeru.