How to work safely from home in times of social distancing? What does VPN stand for?
Maintaining social distancing remains one of the best weapons we have to slow the spread of the coronavirus infection. The whirlwind of technological innovations and the Internet itself provide unparalleled connections and for some corporate sectors, working from a distance is not a problem at all. In reality, both the personal and professional lives of hundreds of thousands actually continued in a well-known communication environment – the Internet.
The increasing numbers of employees operating mostly virtually in times of social distancing brought up some important issues about cybersecurity. What can we (not) do to ensure network security at home? What is a VPN and what is its role for our safety when working from home? Let’s discuss these important issues in the below paragraphs.
What is a VPN network and how do we get optimal results from it?
Virtual Private Network, known simply as VPN, is a widely used service. It’s fundamental for businesses and individuals operating with high Internet privacy demands. The VPN networks provide secure access to company data to employees who work remotely.
The idea behind VPN set-ups is to encrypt your own IP address and the data you share to keep it secure. For example, a reliable VPN network can provide your employees with direct access to operational data, resources, etc., without any local downloads, using email and/or other platforms.
Through VPN your Internet activity remains untraceable and the risk of cyberattacks is significantly minimized. In general, there are three main steps that each user should take to ensure the VPN protects all of their devices:
- VPN service subscription – there are multiple VPN Network services providers out there. The choice depends on your capabilities and preferences as a customer;
- Download and install the VPN software – the VPN network becomes usable through a software, activated separately on each of your devices. Some types of software are downloaded and then installed to spreaders (the so-called VPN routers);
- VPN Network set up – After a VPN’s started, it must be connected to a certain server.
Working remotely does require a VPN network, since using your Home Internet or some local area networks does not invariably provide high levels of IT security. On the other hand, that is not the case in the office, where building a secure IT infrastructure is mandatory.
Do not use remote access tools like Team Viewer and Any Desk without a VPN? Why?
Remote access tools such as TeamViewer, Any Desk and their alternatives are quite “the hype” nowadays. Their undisputed convenience though is associated with high risk when it comes to corporate information protection, especially in the absence of a VPN network.
The greatest risk when using any kind of remote access systems & tools is unauthorized access to your own computer and/or that of someone else in the company. That risk increases tenfold in the absence of a VPN network. Hence, cybersecurity experts do not recommend using any remote access systems without some precautions:
- Using a VPN network – the internet connection is much more secure through a VPN;
- Please use only “corporate” devices – company laptops, smartphones or tablets should have only up-to-date and well-protected software (including antivirus programs, process monitoring, firewalls, VPN, etc.). Therefore, corporate devices should only be used for company purposes, since other common at home activities (free internet browsing, etc.) may put company data at risk;
- Using remote access software monitoring for potential hazards – many modern remote access tools are constantly being improved in that regard, in addition to a secure VPN network, make sure that your software has this security feature.
Remote access softwares have integrated security codes as well. However, before you trust them implicitly, make sure that your network, files and data are fully protected.
Centralized file management & storage system – and how come it helps with remote work?
In addition to installing a VPN, progressively more & more companies have started enjoying the benefits of centralized file management. A centralized system allows storage and access to a database, shared between several devices on a single network.
When active, the VPN provides high levels of security when accessing that centralized system from any device. Besides, when all the data is in one place, high levels of productivity come as a bonus. Active VPN networks reduce greatly operating time and minimize the risk of side information loss. Implementing VPNs brings a great deal of benefit to modern businesses of all sizes.
