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How to Choose a User-Friendly Database for Your Business

by | Jan 27, 2019 | Database

When choosing a database for your business, the options are plentiful: Oracle, SQL Server and Microsoft Access, to name a few. Since implementing a database into your organization will require resources and a learning curve, you want to make the best decision from the start. Otherwise, you could be looking at having to replace your database in the near future.

Below are some helpful tips for choosing a user-friendly database for your organization.

Define Your Needs

The first step in selecting a database is to know what your business needs to be successful. If you run a small business and handle customer orders, inventory, etc., a desktop database like Microsoft Access should be sufficient. It’s not too confusing, and it has all of the functions you need to run a business.

On the other hand, if you are part of a large corporation with thousands of users, a server database will probably be best. Server databases are more powerful, but they come with a higher price tag and require high-performance servers.

Evaluate Desktop Options

If you choose a desktop database, you’ll have many simple, cost-effective options at your fingertips. These databases handle less complex storage needs and are able to run on a desktop or personal computer. A few of the benefits to desktop databases are:

  • Inexpensive. Most desktop solutions are around $100. Microsoft Access is usually a great database to start with because it’s already included with a Microsoft Office subscription.
  • User-friendly. Desktop databases are generally straightforward and easy to use. Microsoft Access has a similar look and feel to other Microsoft programs, including Excel, so most beginners are able to jump right in and feel comfortable using it.
  • Web solutions. With recent upgrades, most database programs allow you to publish data on the internet to share with other users.

Evaluate Server Options

Some organizations need more than a desktop database to run their operations. If you need something more scalable, a server database is probably best. Examples of server databases include Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle. The benefits to server solutions are:

  • Excellent performance. Server-based databases are powerful and do nearly anything you request of them. They can manage high-speed processors, storage technology and clustered servers.
  • Flexible. One of the reasons why organizations opt for server-based databases is because they are flexible and support many users at once time. All data is updated simultaneously as well.
  • Scalability. Server databases are able to handle expanding users or data with no problems. This makes growing an organization more efficient.

Today’s businesses have a number of user-friendly databases to choose from. The best approach is to define your needs and choose the solution that supports them without going overboard. If you need assistance choosing the right database for your business, contact the Arkware team today.

 

5 Tips for Keeping Your Database Secure

by | Jan 8, 2019 | Database

Keeping your database safe and secure is one of the most important things you can do. Hackers tend to target databases that hold a great deal of sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and social security numbers. The more profitable information your database holds, the more attractive it will be to hackers.

Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to ensure your database is secure. While no one is ever fully protected from a cyber attack, criminals look for easy opportunities. Robust database security is also important to help prevent database corruption.

Here are five ways to secure your database.

1. Store Your Database and Web Server Separate

It’s recommended to store your database separate from your web server. If a hacker is able to crack the administrator account for the web server, they can also access your database. When setting up your database, put it on a separate server that is located behind a firewall. This is more complicated and time-consuming, but it’s worth it in the long run.

2. Encrypt Stored Files

Encrypt all of your stored files, as these files contain sensitive information that hackers can use to access your database. Too often, default installations store these files in plain text and users aren’t aware. Take the extra step to encrypt these files. You should also encrypt your backups for the same reason – sensitive information can be accessed by people within your organization.

3. Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF)

Web application firewalls are firewalls for HTTP applications. By protecting the web server, you’re also protecting your database. A WAF is different from a traditional firewall because it’s able to filter the content of specific applications. Standard firewalls are a safety gate between servers.

4. Limit Third Party Apps

Apps and plugins come in handy for certain applications, but do limit your use of them. Interactive widgets and sidebars pull from the database and open you up to potential problems. Use only the apps and plugins that are necessary to run your database, and be sure that they are updated as necessary.

5. Avoid Using a Shared Server

Lastly, it’s best not to use a shared server. Yes, it’s the cheaper and easier option, but it opens you up to security issues. When you share a server, you’re counting on your hosting provider to keep your data secure. If you have no other choice but to share, choose a reliable hosting provider and ask about their policies and what happens if your data is compromised.

To fully protect your database, you need a firm strategy in place that may include additional staff and resources. It’s worth it to protect your data, manage your reputation and comply with the security laws in your state. Find out how secure your database is by calling Arkware today.