In 2012, it was revealed that Google’s long-running integrated email security and archiving system would be retired, as the tech giant has chosen to send its customers over to Google Apps. Postini was a product acquired by Google in 2007, but it has now been deemed surplus to requirements as the corporation looks to expand its Apps offering.
Businesses are becoming increasingly concerned about the impending migrations, as fears are expressed over the security capabilities the Google Apps products will offer and the transition period to these. It is vital that small, medium and large businesses have full control over their email archiving and security, as more and more interaction takes place via this method of communication.
Important contracts, new business developments, and customer and company details, are often transferred over email, and a data breach or loss of documents could be damaging both financially and reputationally.
What now?
Businesses should begin looking towards migrating their services from Google Postini over to the new Apps services or to an alternative provider as soon as possible. The migration process can be a daunting one, due to the high levels of data being transferred and the security risks associated with doing so. However, the shift can be made simpler through the use of a managed Google Postini migration service. This can easily be coupled with the move to an alternative provider.
For example, the Postini Alternative from Mimecast provides excellent on-going support during and after the migration process, before offering you an outstanding email security service that emphasises the delivery of tools and functionality for administrators and end users.
Why move from Google Apps?
Keeping email services in the cloud is hugely beneficial for the modern business environment, as companies embrace the benefits of remote working. This means access to important documents can be vital when out of the office. By using a ubiquitous cloud-based server, it is much simpler to carry-on working while on the move, as long as a reliable internet connection is available. However, it is important to ensure these remain safe from hackers and data thieves, especially when workers use their own devices.
Taking advantage of a service that offers a layered, comprehensive and scalable cloud-based email security and compliance solution, allows businesses to bring their business into the 21st century, while being safe in the knowledge that appropriate data protection and manageable archiving is place.
How can I start the process?
First of all, you should contact a migration service provider. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action for your business’s email security, and can help you begin the transition process before you are forced onto Google Apps.
After setting up an account for you, the provider will ensure a seamless transition without a potentially damaging loss of email activity. They will also ensure you can enjoy protected email services going forward through user authentication processes.
Another concern of this process is migrating your business’s existing policies and access control lists to the new platform. However, a reliable provider will help to limit the difficulties this presents by helping to create the exact same block and allow lists, as well as other security features.