Hosted in Germany translates as “accommodated in Germany” and refers to data. More precisely: on websites, software and information whose data is stored on German servers. Loosely translated, “hosted in Germany” means “stored in Germany”.
Data stored in Germany is subject to German law – the comparatively strict German data protection law, the BGB and HBG. The data in question is stored on German servers, i.e. in a data center in Germany. This data does not leave Germany, unless you as the client request it. This also includes foreign authorities, as long as no crime has occurred. In the event of a criminal offence, foreign authorities must request administrative assistance in Germany and, if necessary, receive access to the necessary data that is restricted under German law. This is handled differently, for example, with data hosted in the USA, where authorities are allowed access.
Within the framework of the GDPR , some very strict rules apply to the protection of personal data and its storage in a third country. In this respect, it is easier for German companies to store corresponding data in Germany. German data centers are also subject to German regulations as physical objects. For example, the comparatively strict fire protection measures that also apply to residential buildings.
It may be that you do not encounter this topic at all in your everyday work. For example, if your company network, servers and company website are already set up. But perhaps servers of your company network are located on your premises – this is also hosted in Germany. The company website is often hosted externally by a specialized provider, which is also a good option for a backup .
You can further improve the security of your data hosted in Germany by paying attention to:
