Microsoft Dynamics 365 is an incredibly powerful CRM (customer relationship management) tool that enables organizations to effectively manage – and leverage – information to drive their business. Its Cloud option in particular simplifies deployment, reduces operating costs and enables users to access cutting-edge technology that can accelerate their digital transformation goals.
Nevertheless, for some businesses planning their Microsoft Dynamics 365 journey, security remains a sticking point. So the question is: is your organization’s data safe in Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM Cloud? The answer is a confident “Yes”. Here’s why.
Microsoft Azure: Cloud and Data Center Security
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is powered by Microsoft Azure, the world’s second-largest public cloud provider. Azure is operated from hundreds of secure Microsoft data centers in different locations worldwide. These locations are protected by locked server racks, perimeter fencing, 24×7 video surveillance and other tight security measures.
In addition, the Microsoft Cyber Defense Operations Center (CDOC), a cybersecurity and defense facility which is at the heart of Microsoft’s security operations excellence, protects Microsoft’s Cloud infrastructure and customers from evolving threats.
Moreover, there are many critical layers to Azure’s security model including:
· Industry-standard encryption protocols
· Secure networks and virtual firewalls
· Secure keys and Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
· Protection from malware, ransomware and other online threats
· Strong access management with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
· Azure Security Center.
At the Ignite 2019 conference, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated that, “Just last year, the total cost of cyber attacks was $1 trillion. That’s why we have focused on end-to-end security architecture.” Nadella was referring to the launch of Microsoft Endpoint Manager as a key step the company is taking to strengthen its cloud security. This development, following reports that Microsoft invests about $1 billion in cloud security/cybersecurity each year, is further proof that the company takes cloud data security and reliability very seriously.
Security in Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM
Microsoft Dynamics 365 also provides a robust security model with multiple defense layers to protect customer organizations’ data integrity and privacy and help prevent data breaches.
1. Role-based Security
This layer categorizes users by roles and works on a ‘need-to-know’ basis. It ensures that users only gain to the information and processes necessary for them to do their jobs. Administrators have strict control over each user’s access rights and task-based privileges and what they can do within Microsoft Dynamics 365 CRM.
2. Record-based Security
This layer focuses on access rights to specific records, with each role’s access level configured by determining what a user can or can’t do with a particular entity in Microsoft Dynamics 365. Seven types of user privileges are available, each of which can be assigned a different access level (which includes restrictions).
3. Field-based Security
With field-based security, Microsoft Dynamics 365 admins can set restrictions to ensure that the data within fields is only accessible to certain/authorized users or teams.
In addition, Microsoft Dynamics 365 also provides other security features:
· A ‘logical isolation’ technique silos every organization’s data and protects it from unauthorized access
· All virtual access to data is logged, recorded and regularly audited to detect inappropriate access
· Microsoft’s data centers are all ISO-27001 certified.
Security is not a destination, but a continually-evolving journey. Microsoft Dynamics 365 provides a number of defense and safeguarding features to keep organizations’ data protected. However, the organizations themselves should also proactively address any problems, putting in place processes and policies to ensure that their data is accessed and handled correctly.
If this sounds too complicated, WayPath can help improve your organization’s data security within your Microsoft Dynamics 365 instance, from the servers all the way down to user roles and permissions. Contact us today.
