It has become more challenging for businesses to secure their networks as remote work expands. The old office walls are no longer there, which has led to increased vulnerabilities as employees across various locations can access sensitive data. Therefore, robust network security practices are crucial for keeping businesses safe from cyber threats and data breaches that cause expensive downtime.
1. Implement a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A VPN is an essential tool to secure access to your business network from outside by encrypting data that moves between the end user and the network. This way, sensitive information remains safe from prying eyes. When employees connect from public Wi-Fi, businesses can safeguard their traffic by routing it through a secure VPN.
Ensure your VPN has strong encryption standards and is constantly updated to prevent susceptibilities. Encourage employees to continue using the VPN while working remotely, especially when accessing sensitive files or applications.
2. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA is a method of adding an extra layer of security when gaining access to a network or application, requiring the user to verify their identity through multiple means. This measure ensures that if hackers can obtain login credentials, they will still struggle to break into the system.
Compulsory MFA implementation within the organisation drastically reduces the possibility of unauthorised access, and it even protects internal systems and other cloud-based services that remote employees may be accessing.
3. Deploy endpoint protection products
Remote workers frequently use personal devices to access the corporate network, thereby opening the device to vulnerabilities. Here, endpoint protection solutions are relevant to securing all devices connected to the network – laptops, smartphones and tablets.
Modern endpoint protection platforms combine anti-malware, antivirus, firewall mechanisms and real-time analysis and response capabilities. Business organisations should deploy advanced endpoint security solutions to handle new risks and keep updating them.
4. Update your software and systems
A common entry point for cyber hackers is always outdated software and operating systems. Additionally, remote workers will always be at a higher risk because devices may not regularly connect to the company network.
Ensure all remote devices have the right software updates, including the OS, browsers and productivity tools. Also, automating the process can ease the load on IT personnel and ensure that employees are working on secure devices without human intervention.
5. Train staff on best practices for security
Remote workers are exposed to phishing, sharing sensitive information or using devices that are unsecured.
Regular cybersecurity training with information on recognising phishing emails, safe internet and proper use of secure connections is essential. Staff must be aware of the dangers of remote work and what is expected from them to protect company-wide information.
6. Restrict access to sensitive information
One of the best methods for reducing risk is the ”principle of least privilege,” which grants employees the minimal access necessary to finish their tasks.
Divide the network, limit access to sensitive data based on job role and responsibility, and if an employee’s account is compromised, the damage is minimal. Review access controls periodically. When people leave or swap job roles within the company, update permissions appropriately.
7. Implement secure password rules
Hackers look for weak passwords as an easy entry point. Strict password policies should be adopted that require remote workers to use complex passwords, combining upper and lower cases, numbers and special characters. Passwords should be changed often and not have similar or sequential passwords across different platforms.
The use of password managers helps in the safe storage and generation of strong logins so that employees are not looking for easy-to-remember and, thus, easy-to-crack credentials.
8. Backup data regularly
Any data a remote staff member creates, changes and saves is vulnerable to loss from cyberattacks, hardware malfunctioning, or just accidental deletions without regular backups.
Implement an automatic system to back up data securely in varying locations, including cloud-based ones. The backup should be encrypted and can be restored quickly in the event of an incident. Further, regular testing of backup systems is required for the smooth recovery of data.
9. Network activity monitoring and threats
Early detection of threats is important through monitoring networks for unusual activity, including Intrusion Detection Systems, which report suspicious activity so businesses can be prepared to react before the security breach becomes full-blown.
With employees working remotely, your IT team must have visibility into all networks, device usage, and user behaviour. Real-time monitoring quickly helps identify anomalies, enabling your team to respond in time, ideally before an attack is executed successfully.
Whether you’re looking to bolster your internal IT capabilities or need expert advice on protecting your business, network security services can help ensure your company stays safe in an increasingly complex digital world. Companies seeking guidance in optimising their remote work security strategies can consider engaging specialists, such as those offering business IT support, to stay ahead of the curve. By adopting these strategies proactively, it is possible to protect your organisation while providing employees with a work-from-home opportunity in a secure environment.
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