MSPs: 4 Key Considerations for Monitoring Cloud-Based File Sharing

MSPs who offer cloud-based file sharing have a full time job. It isn’t enough to simply sell and set up cloud services for your client – you then need to monitor them.

Surprisingly, 44 percent of corporate data stored in the cloud environment is not managed or controlled by the IT department.

While you could try to make it easier for customers to monitor the cloud sharing you set up, there are advantages to being the one to handle this task. For one, you obviously want to make sure that the file sharing system you set up is working properly. You also want to be able to tell when your client may need additional functions or storage based on their use. Finally, your clients care about it, so being the one to offer it will increase your value to them.

Here are four things your clients care about, and things you should be actively monitoring:

Consideration 1: File Sharing Volume and Data Usage

Knowing how many files your clients are sharing and storing can greatly benefit you and your client. When you first set up their cloud sharing system, they had an idea of the amount of volume they would be using. This amount may not have been accurate, or it may change as time goes on. If the system you set up for them isn’t able to handle the volume they are using it performance could suffer. On the flip side, if they start using dramatically less data, you can offer them a smaller plan to save them money.

Consideration 2: Compliance-specific Files (HIPAA, PCI, SOX, etc.)

Certain compliance regulations may require you to monitor specific files for security purposes. Offering a certain level of security around your client’s file sharing is necessary for compliance and for them to even do business with you. Verifying this security through monitoring should also be seen as necessary. If your client’s business is subject to compliance regulations, make it easier for them to handle audits by providing them with complete logs and reports of their file sharing activity.

Consideration 3: Devices Used

While MSPs and the IT departments are responsible for the flow of information in the organization, one of the biggest challenges is employees bringing their own devices (BYOD). You and the organization should monitor devices being used to make sure that employees aren’t using separate cloud services outside of the company’s network.

Consideration 4: Number of Users and Their Access Credentials

Companies need to allow all of their user’s access to the files that are important to them, but they should also understand that their users are the biggest cause of data breaches. As their MSP, you should monitor the number of users they allow, including authorized users and guests. You should also carefully monitor what access these users have and any changes to access credentials. Extra users being added unnecessarily or an employee gaining access to files they don’t need access to should all be flagged and reported to the IT department or managers.

Cloud-based file sharing is a great way to increase mobility and performance for your clients – if it’s monitored. Monitoring their cloud usage can give you insights into additional needs or any changes you need to make in their SLA. Failure to monitor could leave their organization’s files vulnerable.

What monitoring services do you offer your clients? Let us know in the comments below!