Datastore
(also data storage system)
Data store definition
The data store is a digital repository that stores different data types. A data store may be a relational database, NoSQL database, object-oriented database, or file system. The datastore structure depends on the application or service’s specific requirements, such as the type of data that needs to be stored, the quantity of the data, the user base, and the performance criteria. A company or a third-party supplier manages the data store, which can be on-site or on the cloud. Additionally, data stores have few uses, such as data analytics, data archiving, data recovery, business intelligence, and transaction processing. They also offer several data management features, including data replication, backup and recovery, data encryption, and access control. They improve the organization’s safety and prevent malware attacks.
See also: biometric security, security token
Data store protection techniques
- Encryption. It safeguards data privacy by using encryption methods like AES, SHA, and RSA. By encrypting the data in data stores, users can be sure that their data will be safe during in-rest or transmission.
- Monitoring and logging. These methods help in detecting unauthorized access or suspicious activity in data stores. If they discover any suspicious activity, they alert the users. Due to this, they can immediately remove the threat.
- Data masking and anonymization. Techniques like these involve hiding sensitive data, such as credit card or Social Security numbers, and anonymizing user data.
- Data backups and recovery. These methods ensure organizations that data in the datastore is safe and not corrupted. The process includes cloud-based backups or regular ones on external storage.
- Regular data updates. Updating encryption techniques, implementing software patches, and conducting frequent security audits guarantee users’ data safety.
- Access control systems. Users ensure that their data is safe because they are the only ones that can access it. In addition, organizations can use various authentication methods, such as passwords, biometric scans, multi-factor authentication, and role-based access.