What is Zero Knowledge Cloud Storage, and what are its advantages?

As businesses continue to take their data offsite and leverage the scale and accessibility of cloud storage, there are concerns regarding the security and privacy of the most popular cloud storage providers. 

Expert Insights stated: ‘45% of breaches are cloud-based. According to a recent survey, 80% of companies have experienced at least one cloud security incident in the last year, and 27% of organizations have experienced a public cloud security incident—up 10% from last year.’

Many users are concerned about unauthorized access to their data as well as the possibility of hacks and data breaches. This is where zero knowledge cloud storage comes in. This article will explain zero knowledge cloud storage, how it works, and why it’s becoming a popular option for businesses that leverage cloud storage for their data needs.

What is Zero knowledge cloud storage?

Zero knowledge cloud storage is a data storage technique that ensures only the user has visibility and control over their data. Data is encrypted before being sent to the cloud storage provider’s servers, where it can only be decrypted by the user.

Zero knowledge cloud storage can be compared to renting a safe deposit box at a bank, where the bank offers the box but the user holds the key to accessing the contents. This idea is similarly applicable for cloud storage, in that the provider offers space, but it is only with an encryption key held by the user that their data can be accessed.

How does zero knowledge cloud storage work?

Zero knowledge cloud storage is a highly secure method of storing data that involves encrypting the data before it leaves the user’s device, with only the user being able to decrypt it. This ensures that the cloud service provider is unable to access the information you store with them. 

The encrypted data is then sent to the cloud storage provider’s servers, where it is stored in an encrypted form by the provider themselves. The provider cannot read the data or access it without the user’s encryption key. 

When the user wants to access their data, they use their encryption key to decrypt it and view it in its original form. This ensures that the user has complete control over their data and that it remains private and secure at all times.

What is the significance of zero knowledge cloud storage?

Zero knowledge cloud storage offers enhanced security and privacy compared to traditional cloud storage, as the service providers cannot view the data users store on their servers. This reduces the risk of a hacker gaining unauthorized access to data because even if they managed to penetrate the provider’s servers, they couldn’t decipher the information.

Cloud storage with zero knowledge keeps the provider from having access to data and prevents unauthorized parties, including law enforcement and government agencies, from gaining access without user permission. This level of security ensures users’ sensitive information remains safe.

Zero knowledge cloud storage can provide an additional layer of security against accidental data leaks, such as when a cloud storage provider employee mistakenly shares user data. The encryption of the shared information is unbreakable without the user’s encryption key.

What organizations use zero knowledge cloud storage?

There is an increase in the adoption of zero knowledge cloud storage by individuals and businesses due to the heightened security and privacy it offers. It is popularly used in industries such as healthcare, finance, and legal services.

Healthcare providers, as well as certain financial institutions and legal services, are obligated to protect the privacy of their customers’ data. Zero knowledge cloud storage can help meet these requirements, offering privacy and security for customer data.

Individuals who wish to maximize their privacy and security may choose to use zero knowledge cloud storage, which can be utilized to securely hold sensitive information such as personal documents, financial records, or confidential business information.

Cloud storage providers that offer zero knowledge services are available.

Popular zero knowledge cloud storage providers offer varying features and pricing models.

Anchor

Anchor is an easy-to-use file-level encryption service based in the US that lets businesses encrypt files and share them securely. Anchor affords cloud storage users an extra layer of security by letting them encrypt files before uploading them to services like Egnyte, OneDrive, Box, and Dropbox. This transforms them into any cloud provider into a true zero-knowledge vault. A free trial is available, with paid plans starting at $16 per month per user. 

Tresorit

Tresorit, a Swiss-based cloud storage provider, offers encryption and secure file-sharing capabilities, two-factor authentication and remote wipe. Their service is offered in pricing plans for individuals and businesses, with a 14-day free trial.

Sync.com

Sync.com is a Canadian cloud storage provider which provides features such as secure file sharing, password protection, and remote wipe. It has individual and business plans, with the possibility of trying its service for 30 days without charge.

pCloud

pCloud is a cloud storage provider based in Switzerland, which provides end-to-end encryption to its customers. File sharing, client-side encryption, and remote wipe are some of its features. Different pricing plans are available for individuals and businesses, with a free trial option.

SpiderOak

SpiderOak is a US-based cloud storage provider that provides zero knowledge end-to-end encryption, secure file sharing, password protection, remote wipe and more. It has individual and business plans, with the option to try their service for free for 21 days.

Icedrive

Icedrive is a UK-based cloud storage provider that provides end-to-end encryption. It includes features such as secure file sharing, client-side encryption, and remote wipe. Icedrive offers various pricing plans for individual and business users and provides a free trial period.

Final Thoughts

Data security and privacy are essential considerations in the digital age. Zero knowledge cloud storage offers a solution, as it allows users to secure their data with encryption before sending it to their cloud provider of choice. Some providers offer both encryption and storage, but business users who want the most security should think about using two different services for each.

Zero knowledge cloud storage continues to gain in popularity among individuals and businesses that require the ultimate in data privacy and security. There are a variety of providers to choose from, allowing users to select the one that fits their requirements best. Proper research and use case mapping will help you make the right decision.