While working in an office has its benefits, the ability to work remotely without losing any access to necessary information has become more pivotal. Remote access allows employees a broad range of functionalities they might need while working miles away from the office. Remote access actually enables one to log into their company device as if in the office. This ability to access company information, systems, and networks, as if sitting directly in front of their office desktop, from wherever they may be in the field carries a ton of utility.[1] Whether it be allowing employees to better their work-life balance, or just providing an operator with a wealth of resources while out conducting business, a company stands to gain a lot by providing their employees with the tool of remote access capabilities.
Virtual Private Network
There are, however, risks that come from implementing remote access programs. These risks vary based on which type of remote access setup is used. One common practice of remote access security is referred to as a VPN or Virtual Private Network. This kind of remote access involves providing employees with access to their company’s networks, systems, and servers and the data contained within through a virtual tunnel from the remote entry point of the employee’s device. As one can imagine, with increased access comes increased vulnerability. Creating numerous connection points that are unconfined geographically thus creates more susceptibility to the wrong person gaining access to the secure and often confidential information kept by companies. A VPN provides security for the remote access process by acting as a safe channel for a user to access their desktop or company’s systems remotely by using encryptions.[2]
Security Concerns
One example of vulnerability is the device being used. It often is the case that such devices are personal possessions of employees and thus cannot always be controlled or protected in such a way that company property can. By disallowing employees to use unsecured networks while also accessing their company’s network, the ability for a hacker to breach through is decreased. Another common security concern for remote access is violations of the server being used as the middleman between the two ends of the remote access. Using firewalls and encryption techniques can protect from such incidents. One nifty trick to secure remote access from the other end is verifying IP addresses using what is called a protocol analyzer. By checking the IP addresses that they are trying to gain access a company can be sure that the users on that end are those granted access and not hackers or unauthorized users.
The resources that are made available that were formerly only accessible while physically in the office enables people to perform their job at a much higher level while allowing a company to change as technology continues to be enhanced. The importance of securing these methods of remote access are thus paramount as the volume of remote access methods increases.
Total Computer Solutions offers customized security training as well as security consulting for businesses throughout the Piedmont Triad region. Fill out the form to be contacted or call us at 336.804.8449 for more information about how our security training for employees can strengthen your network security.
