EU cloud computing initiative set to address concerns about data privacy years
EU cloud computing initiative set to address concerns about data privacy years
The European Commission (EC) recently outlined its new EU cloud computing strategy.
In a publication entitled Unleashing the Potential of Cloud Computing in Europe, the EC explains how it intends to boost the uptake of cloud computing across the EU amongst businesses and the private sector. According to the EC, implementing the strategy could see up to 2.5 million jobs being created and the EU gross domestic product being boosted by €160 billion over the next seven years.
The strategy aims to bring cloud computing services in line with EU safeguards when it comes to privacy and data security. The EC proposes to establish voluntary technical standards which would be led by the industry and ensure cloud users to get interoperability, data portability and reversibility. Voluntary certification standards for cloud providers are also recommended.
The strategy also outlines plans for model terms for cloud computing contracts to cover matters such as SLAs, and data location, transfer and ownership, as well as what happens to data after a contract ends.
A briefing from Loeb & Loeb LLP explains, “The EC intends the strategy to be part of the effort to address consumer concerns about data protection - a factor the EC has identified as one of the most serious barriers to adoption of cloud computing - and expects to use the mechanisms in the proposed Data Protection Regulation, once adopted, to provide further guidance on the application of data protection laws to cloud computing services.”
It adds, “The EC expects to deliver on the key action steps - standardisation and certification for cloud computing; the development of safe and fair contract terms and conditions; and the European Cloud Partnership - in 2013, with a progress report at the end of that year to determine whether the Commission needs to implement further policy and legislative initiatives.”
Businesses looking to move services into the cloud, should evaluate the performance of their existing network and consider setting up a leased line or MPLS network.
