Sovereign Cloud Solutions Critical for Compliance

Devoteam TechRadar 2023 Hot Topic – Distributed Cloud

This article is a selection of the 2023 Devoteam TechRadar, highlighting sovereign cloud solutions in the industry. This year, the focus remains on the Cloud Native era. In this era, technology and business become increasingly interconnected. Companies must prepare for disruptive models built with, in, and for the cloud. Most technologies featured in Devoteam TechRadar 2023 align with this significant shift.

Why sovereign cloud solutions matter

Data holds immense power in the modern digital economy. Consequently, cloud services receive significant attention. The core issue revolves around data—where it resides, how it flows, and who controls it. Many EU organisations now store data in cloud data centres. The EU aims to reduce its reliance on non-European providers and views cloud computing as crucial for AI growth and innovation.

Regulations like GDPR, the Data Act, and the Data Governance Act control cross-border data movement. They prevent non-European agencies from accessing sensitive data. These rules mandate that sensitive data stays on sovereign territory. Now, Chief Data Privacy Officers must know where cloud-stored data is kept and if it transfers outside the EU.

Public clouds suit data not subject to sovereignty regulations. However, compliance often requires hybrid or private cloud solutions. Private clouds meet data sovereignty needs but need dedicated data centres and specialised hardware. This setup can be costly and time-consuming. Important factors to consider include jurisdictional control, local oversight, data portability, and customisation.

How sovereign cloud solutions address data sovereignty

Sovereign cloud solutions address data sovereignty concerns by combining public and private cloud benefits. Using a sovereign cloud feels similar to using a private cloud but without complex IT management. These solutions enable organisations to secure data, comply with regulations, and maintain complete control.

Devoteam’s advice for adaptation

Treat data as a strategic asset and embrace sovereign cloud solutions. Organisations seek cloud benefits while complying with evolving data privacy laws. This approach offers secure, local platforms for data storage and analysis, limiting external intervention and enhancing control.

Regulatory changes will likely grow stricter. Thus, organisations should start preparing now. The data owner, compliance team, and IT team must collaborate to build a flexible cloud strategy.

Practical tips

1. Assess data and manage risks: Include data sovereignty and potential foreign access threats.
2. Appoint a Chief Data Privacy Officer: This role ensures compliance and oversight.
3. Adopt a Cloud Smart approach: Use smart cloud practices for better results.
4. Consult experts: Get advice for creating a multi-cloud strategy.

Integrating sovereign cloud solutions into a comprehensive multi-cloud strategy is wise. Data types differ, and cloud services vary in offerings. Considering sovereign cloud solutions bolsters your cloud strategy and ensures compliance. These solutions offer flexibility and scalability while supporting data residency and sovereignty needs.

4oying with residency and sovereignty requirements.