Level 3 Communications has addressed this situation with a comprehensive global security solutions suite they describe as “Earth to Cloud.” The idea is to provide multi-layered protection that keeps everything in the loop... and out of the reach of those who would do you harm. The key to the success of this approach is a single provider for connectivity and network security. Level 3 is well positioned to be that provider. Their core network spans the globe with a variety of access options. Many content providers take advantage of the Level 3 content delivery network (CDN) to bypass the performance and security challenged Internet and put their content on a fast lane to their customers.
So, what is included in this comprehensive security package? Major elements include Secure Access Services, Managed Security Services, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation, Security Consulting Services, vulnerability scanning combined with DDoS blocking and familiar network edge elements such as anti-virus, anti-spam, and intrusion detection.
Sounds good, but how much support can you count on if you suddenly come under attack. In the case of Level 3, you’ll have 24/7/365 access to their security experts located in four redundant security operations centers (SOCs).
Managed security services are becoming more and more popular among businesses large and small. Part of this is a change in IT philosophy from doing everything in-house to outsourcing many services to companies that specialize in those activities. Cloud computing really started this mass migration when virtualization offered the opportunity to pay only for the resources you are actually using while reserving the opportunity to rapidly scale those resources up and down to match the flow of business in near real time.
Cloud services have expanded way beyond mere renting of processor cycles. They now include complete software solutions or Software as a Service (SaaS), development platforms or Platform as a Service (PaaS) and the computing and storage hardware known as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS).
Telephony has moved to the cloud as well. VoIP technology allows the network to substitute for dedicated telephone lines. It also means the PBX switching system can be located anywhere, including the cloud. Hosted PBX, as it is called, is another money saver for businesses large and small.
Cloud computing, hosted VoIP and network services such as WAN management and security have created a comprehensive set of solutions for companies that want to be more agile in the face of uncertain economic times. Could this approach be of benefit to your company? Check out cloud and network solutions tailored to your specific needs.
