Securing your cloud storage: Essential configurations for SharePoint, OneDrive, and Google Drive at the start of the year

Cloud storage platforms, such as SharePoint, OneDrive, and Google Drive, can store financial records, customer payment information, trade secrets, and other sensitive data. So, as your business enters 2026, securing these platforms should be a high priority. You might be investing in cloud security tools and revamping your data security policies, but some of your biggest risks might be hiding right under your nose.

Misconfigurations in the settings and permissions of cloud storage platforms are one of the leading causes of cloud data exposure, especially for small and mid-sized businesses that move fast and scale quickly.

If your cloud isn’t configured to your business’s specific operational needs, you could be leaving the door open to cyberattacks. Let’s examine why this is, and what you can do to secure your cloud storage without extra investment.

Why are cloud storage configurations important for security?

Cloud platforms are secure by design, but they must be implemented, configured, and managed correctly or the benefits are lost. While your provider is responsible for securing the infrastructure, you still control access, sharing, permissions, and usage policies. If these settings aren’t reviewed and updated regularly, you are at fault, and sensitive files can be overshared, downloaded to unsecured devices, or accessed by compromised accounts.

Without proper configuration, cloud storage environments quietly become cluttered with excessive permissions and outdated access, all of which pose serious security risks. A proactive configuration review helps you enforce least-privilege access, reduce accidental data leaks, and strengthen your overall security posture before threats emerge.

What to look for in your cloud storage configuration review

There are several cloud storage providers on the market, but there are some key cybersecurity configurations to address for the leading platforms in the industry.

Essential security configurations for SharePoint

1. Access control: The first priority for SharePoint is tightening access controls at the site and library level. Assign permissions to security groups rather than individuals, making it easier to manage access as roles change. Do not use global access unless absolutely necessary.
2. Sharing: Limit sharing to specific domains when possible, require authentication for guest users, and disable anonymous sharing links for sensitive libraries. Setting expiration dates on shared links helps prevent long-term exposure.
3. Versioning and auditing: Version history protects your files from accidental deletion or ransomware encryption, while audit logs give visibility into who accessed or modified content. Pair this with multifactor authentication (MFA) for all users, especially those with administrative privileges, to prevent account takeover.

Essential security configurations for OneDrive

1. MFA: In OneDrive, if an employee account is compromised, attackers can instantly access synced files across devices, so enforcing MFA is the single most important step to reduce this risk.
2. Device access controls: Restrict syncing to managed and compliant devices so company data isn’t downloaded onto personal or unsecured systems.
3. Sharing permissions: Set your default to “view only” unless editing is required. Also, enable share alerts for mass downloads or suspicious activity, which can indicate data exfiltration or ransomware behavior.

Essential security configurations for Google Drive

1. Domain level sharing: Google Drive files should not be publicly accessible unless there’s a clear business reason, so restrict sharing outside your organization and require approval for external collaborators. Each of your domains should have restricted sharing enabled by default.
2. Admin controls: Many data leaks occur through poorly vetted integrations that quietly gain permission to read or modify files, so check admin controls across all integrated apps. Disable the ability to install unapproved third-party apps that request Drive access.
3. Data loss prevention (DLP) rules: DLP allows you to automatically detect and restrict the sharing of sensitive information such as financial data or personal identifiers. Combined with activity monitoring and alerting, these controls help you respond quickly to unusual behavior, so make sure everything is turned on and you are getting the right alerts.

To be sure that your cloud storage is secure for 2026 and your business is ready for success, contact XBASE. Our cloud consultants will provide tailored guidance and management services to maximize your cloud infrastructure’s productivity and security.