--- title: How to Maintain Security When Employees Work Remotely canonical: "https://tsplus.net/advanced-security/blog/remote-work-security-best-practices-for-it/" pubDate: "2024-10-07T10:26:22.371Z" description: "Learn how to strengthen remote work security with MFA, encryption, endpoint protection, access controls and monitoring to protect company data." --- Maintaining remote work security requires more than strong passwords and antivirus software. IT teams must combine secure authentication, controlled access, encrypted communications, endpoint protection and continuous monitoring to protect company resources. This guide explains the essential security practices organizations should implement to reduce cyber risks, secure remote employees and protect sensitive business data. ## **Introduction** Remote and hybrid working environments introduce security challenges that traditional office-based protections cannot address alone. Employees connect through different networks, devices and cloud services, increasing the potential attack surface. Organizations therefore need a layered approach to protect identities, endpoints, communications and sensitive data. This article explores the essential remote work security practices IT teams should implement to reduce risks and maintain secure access to business resources. ## Why Should You Implement Strong Authentication and Access Controls? Controlling access to your data is key to protecting remote environments. Authentication and access controls will help to protect your important systems and data. ### Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Multi-factor authentication provides additional security. In a remote working environment, it is common for passwords to be phishing attempts or not secured correctly. By using Multi-factor authentication (MFA) this will greatly reduce the risk of unauthorized access. However, not all MFA methods are secure. The IT team should look to use methods that are not susceptible to phishing such as FIDO2 security keys or passkeys. This should be used especially by administrators and those who have access to sensitive systems. If this is not available then using an authenticator based method is still useful. However, this should be combined with monitoring access and additional controls. This could be a one-time password (OTP), biometric or authentication token. ### Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) This allows users to be assigned permissions based on their role in the organization. This means that only the necessary amount of access is given to each employee reducing risk from exposing critical systems. RBAC is very useful for large organizations with users requiring different levels of access. ### Identity and Session Management Ensure that users and sessions are well controlled throughout their lifecycle. Ensure that admin accounts have least privilege. Set acceptable timeout periods for sessions. When users leave or move roles within the organization ensure that their access is removed. Review user access periodically and use automation to provision accounts to help mitigate risks of over-privileged users, stale accounts and unattended remote sessions. ### Zero Trust Architecture Zero Trust is the principle of assuming threats can come from inside your network. This means that users inside and outside of your network perimeter need to be authenticated, authorized and continuously validated to ensure optimal security. Implementing a Zero Trust model to secure your remote workforce will greatly increase your security, especially when used in conjunction with tools such as Identity and Access Management (IAM). For practical implementation guidance, explore our [Zero Trust remote access blueprint](https://tsplus.net/advanced-security/blog/zero-trust-for-smb-remote-access-a-practical-blueprint/), which explains how IT teams can combine identity verification, device trust and least-privilege access. ## Why The Use of Encrypted Communication Channels is Important? Data transferred between remote personnel and company servers must be encrypted, which ensures that the data cannot be accessed or modified in transit. ### Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide encrypted communication between a remote device and your corporate network over a pre-established tunnel. It is important to implement security measures such as using MFA to authenticate access, ensuring gateways are up to date and granting limited access to the network. ZTNA can also offer application-specific access to reduce the risks of using a VPN. It creates a secure tunnel to only connect to authorized resources. VPNs can also act as a single point of failure. Strong encryption protocols (e.g. OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec) and MFA should be implemented. For a deeper understanding of VPN vulnerabilities, encryption protocols and security limitations, explore our article on [how secure a VPN is](https://tsplus.net/advanced-security/blog/how-secure-is-vpn/). ### End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) When looking at collaboration tools for sending confidential messages, sharing files and video calling, organizations should consider whether the collaboration tool provides true end-to-end encryption (E2EE). This means that the contents of communications are protected from being viewed by the service provision in the middle. However, it does not protect compromised end-points and may not provide protection for metadata. Administrators should check to see what features and what conversations provide true E2EE. ### Transport Layer Security (TLS) and HTTPS Web Applications, APIs and remote access portals should be configured to use HTTPS and Transport Layer Security (TLS) configured correctly. Where possible use TLS 1.3, otherwise ensure TLS 1.2 is configured securely. Older SSL and TLS versions should be disabled. Ensure certificates are valid and cipher suites are reviewed to prevent interception and downgrading. To understand how these encryption standards evolved, read our guide explaining [what SSL is](https://tsplus.net/advanced-security/blog/what-is-ssl/) and how it differs from modern TLS protocols. ## How Can You Maintain Regular Software Updates and Patch Management? Outdated software is one of the most common attack vectors for cybercriminals. Keeping all systems and software up-to-date is non-negotiable for remote work security. ### Automated Patch Management Systems Automation tools are essential to ensure all remote systems are updated as soon as patches become available. Patch management is a centralized process for keeping remote endpoints and servers secure. Microsoft Intune, Windows Autopatch and Azure Update Manager are all modern tools available. If you are using [Windows Server Update Services (WSUS)](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/administration/windows-server-update-services/get-started/windows-server-update-services-wsus), you will still have support for your deployment, but you should consider that it is deprecated. ### Vulnerability Scanning Regular vulnerability scans will help you identify and prioritize any potential weaknesses. Ensure you are using automated scanners to identify missing patches and software updates on all your remote endpoints and servers. You should prioritize based on exploitability, whether it is being actively exploited, asset exposure and business impact. You should ensure you are focusing on internet facing systems and those listed in CISA’s Known Exploited Vulnerabilities. If they cannot be patched immediately, compensating controls should be put in place. In addition to software vulnerabilities, you should also regularly check the exposure of your remote access infrastructure. Internet facing RDP services, overly open access and unpatched gateways can all increase your attack surface. Limiting access to only authorized users/systems, hardening your remote access points and ensuring you have backups in place that have been tested and are kept in isolation will help reduce any potential damage and allow for recovery. ## What Are The Endpoint Security Solutions? With employees working remotely, securing the devices they use to access corporate data is paramount. Endpoints such as laptops, desktops, and mobile devices need to be equipped with comprehensive security solutions. ### Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) EDR solutions allow real time monitoring of endpoints to identify threats such as malware, ransomware or unauthorized access. Tools such as CrowdStrike or Carbon Black can then be used to quarantine any devices that have been infected. ### Antivirus and Anti-Malware Ensure you have up to date Anti-Virus and Malware tools installed on your remote endpoints. Ensure you have Anti-Virus tools which will scan all files going in and out of the device. Also ensuring that any known malicious software is not executed. Your tools should also have regular updates. ### Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Security As highlighted in [NIST's BYOD security guidelines](https://csrc.nist.gov/pubs/sp/1800/22/final), allowing employees to use personal devices for work introduces distinct cybersecurity and privacy risks. IT departments must therefore establish security requirements for personally owned devices accessing corporate resources. Your BYOD policy should include requirements to ensure devices are updated with the latest operating system, encrypted, have authentication and endpoint protection. You can ensure only compliant devices can access corporate resources by using device compliance, MDM and/or application level controls. ## What Are The Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Tools? Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions play a key role in preventing unauthorized access, sharing, or transfer of sensitive corporate data, especially when employees are working remotely. ### Monitoring and Control DLP tools are used to monitor the movement of sensitive data. They can be used to prevent unauthorized data transfers such as to external cloud storage, personal email or USB drives. This stops data from being exfiltrated by malicious insiders or external attackers. ### Granular Policies for Remote Workers DLP tools can be configured to follow specific rules and policies based on the role of the employee. This can include limiting access to highly sensitive information such as customer or intellectual property to certain devices or locations. ## What Are The Secure Collaboration and Cloud Storage Tools? Collaboration tools have become essential for remote work, but without proper security measures, they can introduce new risks. ### Secure File Sharing Use an encrypted file sharing service like Microsoft OneDrive or Google Drive. This will secure your files. You should also make sure you don’t share access to your files with anyone you don’t want to by making sure you have sharing settings which only allow access to those you want. ### Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) Cloud Access Security Brokers are a layer of security that sits between cloud service providers and users. They monitor and enforce security policies for the data being shared and/or stored in cloud applications. They provide visibility and control for IT administrators to ensure that sensitive data is not accidentally exposed. The capabilities of a CASB can also be used within larger Security Service Edge (SSE) or Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture. This can help simplify the enforcement of policies by combining secure web gateways, Zero Trust Network Access, data protection controls etc. ## How Can You Implement Security Awareness and Training? Even with the most [advanced security](https://docs.tsplus.net/advanced-security/quickstart/) tools, human error remains one of the leading causes of security breaches. Educating employees about security threats and how to avoid them is a critical component of a comprehensive security strategy. ### Phishing Simulations Phishing is one of the most common ways to target remote workers. Regular phishing exercises can be an effective way to train staff to identify and avoid phishing emails. These exercises mimic real phishing attacks and provide instant feedback to staff who are caught out. Training should also include phishing through collaboration tools, QR codes, fake authentication pages and AI aided impersonation. A straightforward process should be provided to allow staff to independently verify any suspicious requests and report any suspicious activity. ### Regular Security Workshops Workshops and regular training sessions can be run around topics such as password protection, public Wi-Fi risks and keeping devices up to date. These should be mandatory for all employees particularly new staff members. ## How Can You Monitor Remote Work Behavior and Activity? Monitoring employee behavior while respecting privacy is a delicate balance. However, tracking unusual activity can help identify potential threats before they escalate. ### User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA) User and Entity Behaviour Analytics (UEBA) can be used to find suspicious activity based on patterns within user accounts, devices and systems. UEBA can provide insight into unusual activity of service accounts, unusual, privileged access and unusual activity on machines. When monitoring this activity, it is important to only monitor security-related events. This will ensure there are appropriate controls in place to limit access, retain data for the correct amount of time and ensure employee data is protected. ### Audit Logs and Real-Time Alerts Keeping an audit trail of all access attempts, data transfers and changes will help in investigation of any potential security issues. Alerting your IT team in real time of any suspicious activity such as failed logins or unauthorized access to sensitive systems. ## TSplus Advanced Security: Your Solution for Remote Work Security? Securing remote work requires protecting not only employee devices but also the Windows servers and remote desktop environments they access. [TSplus Advanced Security](https://tsplus.net/advanced-security/*) helps IT teams strengthen these environments with brute-force protection, malicious IP blocking, geographic access restrictions, trusted-device controls and ransomware protection. Combined with strong authentication, endpoint security and regular patching, these capabilities help reduce the attack surface of remote desktop infrastructure. ## Conclusion Maintaining remote work security requires a combination of technical safeguards, clear policies and continuous oversight. Strong authentication, updated endpoints and controlled access help organizations limit exposure to evolving threats. Regular security assessments, employee awareness and effective monitoring further strengthen these protections. Together, these measures create a more resilient remote working environment while supporting secure access to business resources.