The largest cloud ERP vendor in the world is NetSuite, with NetSuite security being one of the best in the world. Cloud computing is one of the best ways for businesses to operate. It involves accessing all the resources they need over the internet courtesy of a platform that allows for hosted services. That is where NetSuite comes in.
Because cloud based businesses have to share resources with other businesses on the same platform, the issue of security will arise at some point. How secure is the data? How secure is the information from clients? Are business operations private or compromised?
Security within NetSuite is usually incorporated in two major levels. These are the operational level and at the application level. Understanding how security is implemented at these levels should go a long way in assuring you that your business data and information is uncompromised.
Understanding Netsuite Security
Security at Application Level
One of the security features of NetSuite security is the fact that access can be limited only to the role someone plays in the organization. This means that users of the platform, can only access the application functions that are relevant to their job description and not more. Data from another application that is not related to them will be restricted and inaccessible to them.
In addition to role based access restrictions, NetSuite has also incorporated application-based access restrictions. This means that unauthorized users cannot access the databases that are linked to the applications that they use. Because of these restrictions, it makes it much harder for anyone to compromise the integrity of the underlying data thus enhancing accuracy.
When connections are idle, which may mean that an authorized user is not near the computer, then the applications are locked in. This in turn prevents anyone without authorized access from compromising the data in that computer.
Another security measure implemented at application level is restrictions placed on different IP addresses. These restrictions ensure that only authorized users who own their devices are able to access the NetSuite applications meant for them. IP address restrictions can also limit locations to enable individual areas access applications they need and not those they do not need.
At the application level, every transaction that occurs will be tracked using user login details and a timestamp. This enables the organization to audit access to their system that is integrated within the NetSuite platform.
Users login details and any additional information given at this level, is protected using a 128-bit SSL Encryption. This makes it much harder for any authorized user to access login details of other users in the organization, thus preventing a data breach.
In addition to enhanced encryption for security at login level, the NetSuite platform has also incorporated strong password policies. There is a minimum word count for passwords as well as instructions to enhance their complexity. These passwords have to be of mixed characters. Access restrictions are implemented after a few login attempts, which have failed. Physical tokens are also used to enhance the authentication process for better security. All these policies are meant to prevent unauthorized access to the NetSuite applications being used in any organization.
Security at Operational Level
When business operations are going on courtesy of the NetSuite platform, users can continue working without fear of data compromise. NetSuite Security at operations level is done using a variety of checks and balances that prevent interference of operations in any way.
NetSuite has a number of security certifications that can be used as assurance of security by the enterprises on this platform. These include a secure credit card authentication certificate, which is optional. It also includes a certification that guarantees safe transfer of data from any country in the EU to the US.
Security monitoring is done continuously. Monitoring mechanisms incorporated by the NetSuite platform ensure that no unauthorized access attempts are successful with regard to accessing the data center, and the networks. The systems in places help stop any malicious traffic and investigate the root cause.
The platform has also put in place an anti-virus, which operates at the enterprise level to protect the systems from malware attempting to hijack the applications and software.
During operations, employees are allowed access based on their responsibilities and after a background, check is done on all of them. Only the authorized users will be allowed to take part in the operations, at any given level of operations done on the NetSuite platform. This is because those without privileges to do certain tasks will be restricted from the areas they are not required to work in.
In addition to monitoring mechanisms placed at the software level, there are also physical security measures in place. People who are not authorized to be in the premises will be required to show identification documents before they are allowed to see the operations personnel in the organization. Access is limited to one person at a time, to enable accurate authentication of identities.
Physical access is also implemented through the construction of secure perimeter walls, doors, and windows to guard against anyone who wants to access NetSuite systems. These security guards have alarms installed to alert the security personnel when unauthorized access occurs.
CCTV cameras are installed in facilities that make use of NetSuite for their daily operations. The videos are stored for informational purposes should the need arise.
NetSuite also enhances operational security by making provisions for audit of its systems and data. Any updates that need to be done are then implemented. These security measures help to enhance performance among the operations personnel and keep them aware of security requirements of the organization continuously.
Bottom Line
The security features that are incorporated within the NetSuite platform offer the assurance that businesses need with regard to data protection. While the platform will require some financial investment, the returns on that investment are certainly worth the money paid.
The security layers at both the application and operational level are some of the most comprehensive available in the market today. You do not need to worry about your data and business operations being compromised by users within and outside your organization. After all, NetSuite security mechanisms will do all the work for you!