(January 15, 2024) Almost every organization depends upon ready access to data. If that data were lost or corrupted, operations would grind to a halt. In light of that, data protection and management are critical issues for organizations of all sizes. Immutable storage effectively addresses these challenges.
As the name suggests, immutable storage cannot be changed in any way. The immutability derives from write-once-ready-many (WORM) techniques. Files are “locked” for a period determined by the user. Even a storage administrator cannot modify or delete the files until the set time has elapsed.
WORM storage has been around since the late 1970s. Originally, it referred to data written to optical disks using low-powered lasers that made permanent marks. That’s still done today using optical media such as CDs and DVDs. However, immutable storage capabilities are now implemented through software, making it possible to use hard drives, solid-state drives, tapes, or the cloud.
Immutable Storage Benefits
Greater Security. Regular data backups are the best defense against ransomware and other cyberattacks. However, some of today’s malware seeks out and corrupts backups as well as primary storage. Immutable storage provides potent protection by preventing attackers from altering the data.
Regulatory Compliance. Immutable storage has long been used for compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. It enables organizations to ensure the authenticity of data while keeping that data readily accessible. The immutability “lock” can be set based on specific compliance requirements.
Data Integrity. In a data tampering attack, malicious actors use various techniques to manipulate, delete, insert or substitute data, making it impossible to know if the data is trustworthy. Data poisoning attacks specifically manipulate data used to train AI systems, causing incorrect or unpredictable results. Immutable storage effectively prevents data tampering and poisoning attacks.
Reduced Risk of Human Error. Many data integrity problems are not malicious but the result of everyday mistakes. Users may accidentally delete or modify critical files, which can result in a cascading series of errors. A recent backup on immutable storage makes it possible to fall back to the last known reliable data.
Immutable Storage Use Cases
Organizations use immutable storage for all types of data, particularly as ransomware defense. However, it is especially useful for data that must meet privacy, security, and integrity requirements.
Financial Data. Financial data is subject to many regulatory requirements and is frequently the target of cyberattacks. Immutable storage ensures that financial data can be reliably used for required disclosures and reporting. When combined with data encryption, immutable storage prevents attackers from stealing bank account and credit card numbers and other sensitive information.
Law Enforcement. Law enforcement organizations are among the primary users of immutable storage. They store data collected as evidence and recorded during audio and video surveillance. The integrity of this data must be assured if it is to be used in judicial proceedings.
Part of an Overall Strategy
Immutable storage is just one aspect of a modern data management and protection strategy. It can be used as one element of a 3-2-1 backup, which involves making three copies of data on two different storage media, with at least one copy stored offsite. Using immutable or air-gapped backup provides additional protection against ransomware.
It’s also important to develop a data retention policy and implement a data archival solution. Because immutable storage is for long-term data retention, organizations should ensure they’re only preserving the data they’ll need.
Mainstream can help you select the right storage and backup strategies for all the data in your environment. Contact us to schedule a complimentary consultation.
ABOUT MAINSTREAM TECHNOLOGIES
Mainstream Technologies delivers a full range of technology services in Arkansas and the surrounding region including managed technology services and consulting, custom software development, and cybersecurity services. We also offer industry-leading data center services in our Little Rock facilities. Established in 1996, Mainstream has earned a reputation for delivering quality, reliable, and professional technology services for public and private-sector customers across the United States.
Jeff Pracht
IT Business Development Manager
(479) 715-8629 Office
(501) 529-0008 Mobile
