Cloud without US Access: The Practical Guide for Companies

Why US access is a real risk

The US CLOUD Act allows US authorities to access data of American providers – even when stored in European data centers. Even EU data centers of Microsoft or Google do not protect against this. For companies with sensitive data, a cloud without US access is therefore no longer an option, but a duty.

The 6 test criteria for a cloud without US access

1. No US parent company: Only providers without a US corporate structure are exempt from the CLOUD Act.
2. Data location Germany: The data must technically reside in German data centers.
3. German law: Contracts and data processing are subject exclusively to German law.
4. GDPR without addendums: No standard contractual clauses as a stopgap.
5. Own infrastructure: No reselling of US cloud infrastructure.
6. Transparency: Clear statements on access, locations and subcontractors.

Which providers offer a cloud without US access?

Providers include Souvera Workspace, STACKIT, IONOS and Delos Cloud. Souvera stands out through the combination of a sovereign cloud, a dedicated mail server and a fully integrated office suite – turnkey and without administration effort.

The switch in practice

The change is easier than expected: consultation, automatic mail import via IMAP, set DNS entries, done. Parallel operation during the transition phase is possible at any time.

Conclusion

A cloud without US access is feasible – if the provider is truly independent in law and technology. Check the 6 criteria before you decide. Souvera Workspace meets all six.