Managed IT Services Providers Encourage Secure Remote Access for Growing Businesses

It is now a common practice for companies to have employees that work from many different locations. Not only do some staff work remotely, others have also made it a norm to travel regularly. Furthermore, there are also teams who prefer to use systems from their home offices. Although this kind of flexibility opens up to good business opportunities. Providers of managed IT services also warn about the extra security threats that come with remote access. As such, it is important that all connections are properly protected and supervised. 

Managed IT Services Providers Encourage Secure Remote Access for Growing Businesses

Experts in Managed IT Services Warns that Passwords Alone Are Not Enough 

Remote systems are attractive targets for attackers. This is why stolen passwords are hot targets since they can provide access from anywhere. Aside from password theft, another issue comes from using weak credentials that are easily cracked with some guesswork or brute force attack. To supplement this, it is imperative to use MFA or multi-factor authentication to provide another security layer. With this, users must prove their identity in another way other than having the password. Ergo, experts in managed IT services, explains that even if the theft cracks the password, it would be futile. 

Personal Devices Need Clear Boundaries 

Sometimes employees use their own devices to access business systems. However, managed IT services providers stress that those devices might not have company security controls. Moreover, updates and antivirus protection might also be inconsistent. Because of this, it is important for companies to create clear rules for acceptable device access. For example, they can stipulate that only company-managed equipment can be used for sensitive systems. These can be created, enforced, and monitored consistently by the company’s IT team or the company’s trusted provider of managed IT services. 

Public Wi-Fi Creates Extra Exposure 

Employees working remotely are likely to use less familiar networks. For example, hotels and coffee shops provide convenient internet access. However, businesses cannot control those network environments. So, managed IT services experts strongly suggest getting secure connections to help protect business traffic. Additionally, employees should avoid accessing sensitive systems carelessly. Proper education and clear training makes safer remote work easier. 

Access Should Match Employee Roles 

As much as it is convenient, company leaders must keep in mind that not all employees need access to every system. So, the use of remote access should be based on job duties. By limiting permissions, unnecessary business exposure is also reduced. So, reviewing access whenever employees change positions is imperative. Furthermore, professionals in managed IT services also emphasize that permission must be immediately revoked once responsibilities have been altered or when employment has terminated. Additionally, conducting regular reviews is essential to keep remote access properly controlled.  

Old Remote Tools Create Hidden Risks 

Businesses sometimes keep outdated remote access software. For example, forgotten tools may remain installed after projects finish. Unfortunately, these applications can become unnecessary security gaps. Thus, managed IT services partners stress the importance of maintaining an inventory of approved remote tools. In line with this, applications that your business no longer needs should likewise be removed. On top of that, remaining software must be timely patched and properly configured to reduce vulnerability. 

Watch for Suspicious Remote Activity 

Remote network access should never operate without visibility. This means, if they are logging in from unusual places, they should be investigated further. Moreover, if they make repeated unsuccessful attempts, it can also be a sign of attacks. Having a trusted managed IT services partner makes security monitoring possible that will enable detection of suspicious activity at an early stage. Any alerts will allow your IT team to investigate and respond quickly to prevent larger security problems. 

Make Remote Work Secure and Practical 

Despite the need for tight and multi-layered security, it must not hinder productivity. This is because if there are so many complications in a system, employees can get overwhelmed that they become unproductive. In contrast to that, they can also start working around the system just to get their job done. Therefore, having simple but effective controls creates better long-term habits. In most cases, your managed IT services provider can help your business balance both needs. Not only can they configure access and monitor connections, but they should also be able to respond and assist promptly to staff concerns in working through remote technology issues.  

Working remotely can reinforce today’s business practices. To make this successful, safe, and manageable, having secure access is imperative. Here at EB Solution, we help businesses secure remote access.  

Contact our team now and reinforce your remote work environment!