Protecting your tablet through the cloud

The tablet computer has quickly become a favored tool for mobile professionals. Even as they enjoy the portability and flexibility that the devices provide, many users are unsure how to protect their tablets from viruses and other threats.

Tablet users looking to safeguard their devices may consider turning to the cloud.  Though a hosted service, a tablet user is guaranteed the most up-to-date security available. Unlike with traditional antivirus deployments, tablet users do not need to go out and buy the latest software version available. Instead, updates are handled by the cloud provider, who has more readily available resources and personnel to dedicate to protecting your data.

Many cloud-based solutions also offer remote lock and data wipe capabilities. If a tablet is misplaced or stolen, a user can simply log on to his or her cloud account and lock down the tablet to ensure no one else has access to sensitive information.

Given the tablet's relatively limited amount of onboard storage, the device's relationship with the cloud is already a strong one. Applications, documents and other files are regularly accessed through cloud-based services, giving tablet users near-universal connectivity to their critical data. As tablet use continues to grow, it makes sense to extend security to the cloud as well.