The shift to remote work now offers extremely flexible options and a wider talent pool. However, it also exposes your business to completely new security challenges. How do you protect company data when your team is spread across different locations and networks?
For years, VPNs were the standard solution. But as cyber threats become more sophisticated, relying solely on a VPN is no longer enough. This guide will explore effective ways to create a secure remote workforce without a VPN.
Why VPNs Aren’t Always Enough
Securing remote workers is absolutely critical to protect any sensitive business data. VPNs can create an encrypted tunnel for data, but they have limitations. They can be slow, difficult to scale, and often grant users broad access to the entire network once connected.
This “all-or-nothing” access model means that if a hacker compromises a user’s credentials, they could gain access to all your systems. Modern security requires a more layered and targeted approach that’s much more than what a traditional VPN can offer.
Security for Remote Teams
To build a genuinely secure framework for your remote workers, consider implementing a combination of security solutions. The following tools offer more granular control and better protection against today’s cyber threats.
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access. This could be a password combined with a code from a mobile app, making it much harder for unauthorized users to access your systems even if they’re able to bypass one verification method.
2. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Every device your employees use—laptops, phones, tablets—is an endpoint that can be a target for cyberattacks. EDR solutions continuously monitor these devices for suspicious activity, detecting and responding to threats in real time and securing remote workers.
3. Secure Collaboration Tools
Most remote teams rely on tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Workspace to communicate and collaborate. Ensure these platforms are configured with strong security settings, including encryption and access controls, to protect the data shared within them.
4. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
ZTNA operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Instead of granting broad network access like a VPN, ZTNA gives users access only to the specific applications and data they need to do their jobs. This approach significantly reduces the risk of a data breach spreading across the whole network and secures your remote workforce.
5. Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
A CASB acts as a gatekeeper between your users and cloud services. It enforces your security policies, whether your employees are accessing cloud applications from the office or a coffee shop, to ensure consistent protection across all environments.
Best Practices for a Secure Remote Workforce
The right tools are only step one to securing your business data. The next step is to adopt all the best security practices. Adopt the following into your standard business practices:
- Regular Software Updates: Keep all software and systems updated with the latest security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.
- Employee Cybersecurity Training: Regularly educate your team on how to recognize the latest phishing scams, use strong passwords, and follow security protocols.
- Strong Password Managers: Encourage the use of password managers to create and store complex, unique passwords for every application.
- Data Encryption: Ensure that data is encrypted both when it’s stored on devices (at rest) and when it’s being transmitted over the internet (in transit).
When Does a VPN Still Make Sense?
While modern alternatives offer more advanced protection, VPNs can still be useful in certain situations. For example, a VPN may be necessary for accessing specific legacy applications that don’t support modern security protocols or for meeting certain compliance requirements. The key is not to rely on it as your only line of defense.
Strengthen Your Remote Security with Unity IT
Protecting your remote workforce requires a multi-layered security strategy that goes beyond traditional methods. By combining tools with best practices, you can build a secure and productive remote environment.
If you’re unsure where to start, Unity IT can help. Our team of experts will assess your current setup and design a comprehensive security plan tailored to your business needs. Contact us today for a free consultation on how to secure remote workers.