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TREAT YOUR ENTERPRISE DATA LIKE A DIGITAL NOMADTREAT YOUR ENTERPRISE DATA LIKE A
DIGITAL NOMAD

By combining agility with compliance, and security with accessibility,
businesses will treat their data as a well-prepared traveler, ready for any
adventure.

Apu Pavithran, Founder & CEO, Hexnode

September 30, 2024

4 Min Read
Source: Lucie Konecna via Alamy Stock Photo


COMMENTARY

The post-pandemic need for "anywhere connection" is fueling not only borderless
business but also the rise of digital nomads. Surprisingly, the two face similar
issues.

Consider that both international enterprises and location-independent workers
must be prepared for travel, follow local rules, and carry only the essentials.
For a digital nomad, this might mean a laptop, a handful of essential apps, and
a reliable VPN. For an enterprise and its data, it's multicloud databases,
robust encryption, and a zero-trust posture. In both cases, excess baggage only
slows you down and increases vulnerability. And, in both cases, not following
the rules can result in legal headaches.



Indeed, enterprises today walk a data tightrope. Their information ecosystems
must be adaptable across diverse environments, navigating tightening
regulations, heightened security requirements, and complex data rules.

Let's explore how enterprises can become data nomads by balancing compliance,
security, and agility — all while seeing the world without getting in trouble.




FROM HOME BASES TO GLOBAL EXPEDITIONS

Mastering travel is crucial for digital and data nomads. Like savvy travelers
navigating international borders, enterprises must maneuver a varied data
landscape — especially with the likes of the European Union's General Data
Protection Regulation (GDPR) acting as a stringent "passport control" for
information. Therefore, understanding what's required is key to moving data from
point A to B while abiding by the law.



Enterprises must first map their data — their digital luggage — to know what
they have, how it's regulated, and where it's stored. Like nomads with a home
base, many adopt a hybrid cloud approach. This home-and-away strategy blends
on-premises infrastructure with public cloud services, offering flexibility,
cost benefits, and resilience. It ensures data resides in jurisdictionally
appropriate locations while enabling global reach. 

However, moving data between specific regions brings additional complications,
especially between Europe and the US. For years, the "visa requirements"
governing acceptable data transfers between these two superpowers have been in
flux, with the EU-US Data Privacy Framework being the latest attempt to
streamline cross-border data. Organizations still need to secure the right
"travel permits" with a combination of approaches. This might involve keeping
sensitive data in EU-based systems, using standard contractual clauses for US
transfers, or applying new framework principles where relevant. However, given
the turbulent history of previous agreements like Privacy Shield and Safe
Harbour, enterprises should watch this space.



Another way to travel without falling afoul of the authorities is isolated
connectivity. Google's Distributed Cloud latest configuration exemplifies this
balance, with its air-gapped appliance allowing users to access cloud
applications without jeopardizing data security — a blend of home comfort and
travel flexibility for enterprise data.


A NOMAD'S SECURITY TOOLKIT

But moving from place to place exposes both digital and data nomads to security
risks. Just as globe-trotting workers must stay vigilant against pickpockets and
scams, enterprises must be wary of bad actors — a growing concern with the rise
of distributed workloads and global hackers.

The good news is that enterprises can and must fight back. End-to-end encryption
acts like an unbreakable luggage lock, protecting information at every step.
Multifactor authentication serves as a biometric passport, ensuring only
authorized personnel gain access. Regular security audits flag potential risks,
much like travel advisories. And, by embracing distributed storage, companies
avoid keeping all their eggs in one basket, reducing the impact of any single
breach.



Adopting a zero-trust architecture — comparable to a cautious security detail —
further ensures verification regardless of origin. This "trust nothing, verify
always" mindset treats every network as hostile and scrutinizes each access
request, thereby reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.


LESSONS FROM THE ROAD

By now I've done this metaphor to death, but the parallels between digital
nomads and enterprise data are too striking to ignore — and the challenges will
only continue to evolve.

Emerging technologies like edge computing and AI will create new destinations
for our data to explore. And don't expect regulations to slow down, further
shaping digital travel requirements. This demands IT leaders have their finger
on the pulse and think about their data journey from door to door.

The most successful enterprises will be those that can turn potential data
pitfalls into opportunities for growth and innovation. By combining agility with
compliance, and security with accessibility, they will treat their data as a
well-prepared traveler, ready for any adventure.

The lesson from our digital nomad cousins is clear: Pack light, comply right.




ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Apu Pavithran

Founder & CEO, Hexnode

Apu Pavithran is the founder and CEO of Hexnode. Recognized in the IT management
community as a consultant, speaker, and thought leader, Apu has been a strong
advocate for IT governance and information security management.

See more from Apu Pavithran
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