Why Hosting Public-Facing Infrastructure On-Premises Is Risky

In today's digital landscape, where cyber threats are continually evolving, the safety of data is more critical than ever but these risks are not confined only to cloud applications: Vulnerabilities are present in on-premises infrastructures, especially those exposed to the public internet, as well.

On-prem server maintenance

Understanding On-Premises Hosting

On-premises hosting means managing servers and applications within an organization’s physical location. For many businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, this can seem like a cost-effective choice. It allows companies to maintain direct control over their hardware, software, and data security. However, this control comes with substantial responsibility.

The hosting of critical applications on local servers, particularly those that are publicly accessible, can invite diverse threats. Cybercriminals are continuously refining their techniques, exploiting vulnerabilities quickly and often without detection.

The Risks of On-Premises Public-Facing Infrastructure

1. Exposure to Cyber Threats

One of the most significant risks of 'on-prem' web servers is exposure to cyber threats. Public-facing infrastructures are vulnerable to attacks such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS), ransomware, and data breaches.

The Microsoft SharePoint breach in July demonstrated how easily attackers can infiltrate seemingly secure systems. This highlights the urgent need for robust security measures for on-prem solutions.

2. Limited Resources for Security Management

Many organizations lack the necessary resources—financial and human—to secure their on-prem web servers adequately. A company might have a few IT specialists focused on securing networks, but facing numerous threats and emerging vulnerabilities can overwhelm a limited team.

Maintaining cybersecurity effectively requires ongoing specialized skills and dedicated attention. Organizations may become complacent, inadvertently leaving their public-facing infrastructure exposed.

3. Compliance Challenges

Regulatory compliance is becoming increasingly complex. Organizations must stay aware of varying requirements based on location and industry. For on-premises environments, compliance responsibility lies entirely with the organization.

Failing to meet regulatory standards like GDPR or HIPAA can lead to penalties reaching up to 4% of a company’s annual revenue. The aforementioned SharePoint incident emphasizes that compliance with data protection and breach notification standards should be a top priority for IT managers in organizations of all sizes in all industries.

4. High Maintenance Costs

On-premises solutions may appear cheaper initially, but the long-term costs can be deceptive. Expenses related to regular maintenance, updates, security audits, undetected exploits, and staffing can quickly accumulate.

The costs following a security breach can be staggering, running into millions in damages, lost revenue, and potential legal fees. In fact, a data breach can cost a company an average of $3.86 million.

Lessons Learned from the SharePoint Hack

1. Zero Trust Architecture

A Zero Trust architecture is increasingly essential. This security model operates on the principle of never trusting, always verifying, regardless of user location.

Adopting Zero Trust principles can significantly reduce risks associated with on-prem infrastructures by ensuring continuous validation of user identities before granting access to sensitive data.

2. Regular Security Audits

Conducting regular security audits is critical for organizations managing on-premises setups. These assessments allow IT managers to proactively identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

The SharePoint breach underscored that overlooking regular audits can lead to severe consequences. Organizations should prioritize systematic evaluations of their security measures and be ready to adapt based on changing threats.

3. Disaster Recovery Planning

Effective disaster recovery planning is vital for organizations with public-facing on-prem infrastructure. In case of a breach, a well-defined response strategy can limit recovery time and mitigate further damage.

The SharePoint incident serves as a key reminder of the importance of preparedness. Disaster recovery plans should encompass not just backups, but also clear communication protocols to ensure transparency and timely information sharing.

Alternatives to On-Premises Hosting

With the risks tied to on-premises hosting in mind, organizations should explore alternatives that mitigate vulnerabilities while maintaining control.

1. Cloud Hosting Solutions

Cloud hosting has become a widely adopted alternative, offering scalable resources, robust security features, and reduced capital costs. Top cloud providers spend significantly on security innovations and often meet stricter compliance standards than many local installations.

While moving to the cloud can pose challenges, long-term benefits, such as 24/7 expert support from dedicated cybersecurity teams, can far outweigh initial hurdles.

2. Hybrid Approaches

Combining on-prem solutions with cloud capabilities can deliver a balanced approach to hosting infrastructure. A hybrid model enables businesses to keep mission-critical systems on-prem while leveraging the cloud for less sensitive applications.

This strategic distribution can significantly lower risks, allowing organizations to enjoy the flexibility, security, and scalability of cloud environments while still managing essential functions internally.

Preparing for the Future

There is clearly a critical need for vigilance and adaptability regarding public-facing IT infrastructure. Shifting mindsets is essential; failure to view on-prem web servers through a security and risk management lens can have serious repercussions.

As digital threats evolve, IT managers and business owners must prioritize an adaptable cybersecurity strategy responsive to changing landscapes. Investing in training and awareness for staff is essential, as human error remains a significant vulnerability.

Final Thoughts

Deciding whether to host public-facing infrastructure on-premises requires thoughtful deliberation. The risks associated with on-prem web servers are considerable and magnified in today's digital environment. The lessons learned from recent security incidents, including the SharePoint hack, provide a guide for enhancing cybersecurity practices and preparing for future challenges.

By understanding these risks and adapting strategies accordingly, organizations can protect their digital assets and foster a culture of enduring security. As you review your infrastructure strategy, remember that in the digital age, security is not an optional extra; it's a fundamental necessity.