Recently, Microsoft issued an alert about active attacks on SharePoint servers used by government agencies and businesses to share documents within organizations. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is aware of these attacks and is working closely with federal and private sector partners. The attacks exploit a previously unknown vulnerability, making them “zero-day” attacks. SharePoint Online in Microsoft 365, which is cloud-based, was not affected. The attack, which allowed unauthenticated remote code execution on on-premises SharePoint servers, has already impacted organizations globally, with patch guidance available here. Ensure you patch your SharePoint servers and check for indicators of compromise. While patching is essential in the short term, these attacks underscore how relying on on-premises systems makes organizations more vulnerable to threats that are increasingly difficult to predict and prevent.
What is the importance of storing your data in the cloud?
Keeping your data on-premises exposes your business to unnecessary risk. While on-premises solutions might offer a sense of control, they frequently lack the scalability, flexibility, and robust security capabilities that modern cloud platforms deliver. On-premises systems typically require significant resources for maintenance, updates, and patching—tasks that can fall behind, leaving systems vulnerable to emerging threats like zero-day exploits.
By contrast, cloud-based solutions offer continuous security updates, advanced threat detection, and the agility needed to adapt instantly to new threats—resulting in far greater protection, efficiency, and a lower total cost of ownership than on-premises can deliver. In short, keeping your data on-premises is increasingly a liability, not an asset.
Migrating to the cloud isn’t just a technical upgrade; it’s a strategic shift that strengthens your security posture, boosts operational agility and future-proofs your business. Here’s how:
- Enhanced Security: Cloud providers implement robust security measures to protect data. This means your data is protected by layers of defense that far exceed what most on-prem environments can offer.
- Accessibility: Cloud-stored data is available from any device, anywhere—enabling secure remote work, real-time collaboration and seamless access across distributed teams. No more VPN bottlenecks or location-based limitations.
- Scalability: As your business grows, so do your data needs. Cloud platforms allow you to scale storage and compute resources instantly, without costly hardware upgrades or downtime.
- Disaster Recovery: Cloud solutions offer automated backup and recovery options, ensuring business continuity even in the face of hardware failure, cyberattacks or natural disasters. Your data stays safe, recoverable and accessible.
Bottom line: continuing to keep your data on-premises puts your business at risk and limits your ability to respond to modern challenges. The cloud isn’t the future—it’s what responsible, forward-thinking organizations are doing right now.
Microsoft 365: Cloud-based productivity solutions
Microsoft offers a comprehensive suite of cloud-based productivity tools through Microsoft 365 (M365), purpose-built to meet the demands of today’s business environment and keep your data protected:
- Office Applications: Access to Word, Excel, PowerPoint and more.
- Collaboration Tools: Teams for communication and collaboration.
- Storage Solutions: OneDrive for secure file storage and sharing.
- Security Features: Advanced security and compliance tools to protect data.
By adopting Microsoft 365, organizations can centralize security, streamline collaboration, and access the latest protections against sophisticated cyber threats. While no solution is completely risk-free, Microsoft’s cloud services are continuously monitored and updated—giving you peace of mind that your environment is safeguarded.
Your action plan starts here
As the 2024 Microsoft Partner of the Year, Pax8 is recognized for delivering unmatched value, innovation and enablement to MSPs. When you work with Pax8, you’re not just getting access to Microsoft solutions—you’re gaining a strategic partner committed to helping you grow and secure your Microsoft business. Explore our Pax8 and Microsoft Playbook to discover how our tools, resources and expertise can power up your Microsoft business and fuel long-term growth.
Leverage Pax8 Professional Services
Available exclusively to Pax8 partners, Pax8 Professional Services are designed to empower MSPs with expert-led support across cloud migration, security and productivity optimization. Whether you’re navigating complex transitions from legacy systems or scaling your Microsoft practice, our team provides hands-on guidance tailored to your business goals. For MSPs managing clients still on SharePoint Server, Pax8 can help you securely migrate data to Microsoft 365, eliminating on-prem vulnerabilities and unlocking the benefits of cloud collaboration. From planning and implementation to post-migration optimization, Pax8 Professional Services ensure you deliver value faster—with less risk and more confidence.
Get a Microsoft business review
Pax8 partners also gain access to Microsoft Business Reviews—personalized, data-driven sessions that uncover growth opportunities, identify upsell potential and align your Microsoft strategy with client needs. Whether you’re migrating from on-premises to Microsoft 365, implementing advanced security protocols or optimizing your Microsoft stack, we’re here to help.
Partner with Pax8 and take your Microsoft business to the next level by joining a community that gives you access to exclusive benefits, expert guidance and a network built for your success.
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