The notion of returning to full-time office routines is apparently dwindling by the day. This is because technological advancements have allowed businesses the liberty to avail the benefits of hybrid work. From recent market surveys, we see that there has been a palpable drop in the number of individuals tethered to their desks from “nine to five.” This shift has prompted many businesses to reassess their stance on “office attendance”, leaning towards the allure of flexible hybrid work policies.

In these circumstances, remote access and collaboration tools, such as Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), are instrumental in bridging the gap, connecting remote workers to vital organizational resources. While these tools are like saving grace in terms of convenience and flexibility, they also add to security concerns.

In this blog, we discuss the crucial role of RDP encryption, and Remote Desktop Protocol security measures in safeguarding remote access environments, and fortifying organizational defenses against complex cyber threats.

Encryption in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

With this whole digital revolution taking center stage, it is no surprise that Cloud Computing solutions are taking the lead, when it comes to remote access and digital collaboration tools.

With that, it is important to ensure that sensitive and confidential data stays protected. And for this, encryption is the approach that adds an extra layer of protection we all need in today’s complex digital landscape.

That said, it is important to be aware of how traditional encryption methods are a lot more vulnerable to the sophisticated tactics of cyber miscreants; lurking in the shadows. Therefore, it is really important to streamline your cyber hygiene with the highest possible encryption level.

We are talking about (Secure Sockets Layer / Transport Layer Security) SSL / TLS here, the “hard hitters” in encryption technology. Plus, encryption is not just about keeping data safe while it is in transit. We also have to think about what happens when that data is just sitting on our remote devices or servers.

In addition, it is also essential to employ strong encryption algorithms and keys to keep our security measures robust. These cryptographic tools ensure that our data remains protected, even in the event of a breach or hacking event.

Also, when it comes to Cloud RDP security, making sure we have the highest encryption level is an absolute must. This is what enables us to tackle RDP vulnerabilities head-on, and keep our security rock solid.

Securing Your RDP Connection

Securing RDP connections entails the adoption of a series of RDP best practices, to make sure your network security remains top-notch. In the following points, we highlight key strategies for enterprises to improve cybersecurity within their digital infrastructure, particularly for remote access vehicles, like Cloud Hosted Virtual Desktops or RDP.

• Firstly, businesses must utilize strong, unique passwords for remote access connections, to prevent any un-authorized access. There must be strict policies in place to refresh your credentials periodically, making them almost un-crackable. It is equally important for businesses to teach their workforce about the significance of password safety, and shore-up their defenses with this relatively simple step.
• Next up, businesses must also keep their RDP / Cloud-powdered desktop software top-notch, with regular updates. This will enable them to plug any loopholes in security, and give hackers “a run for their money”.
• Additionally, businesses must ensure their remote access setup demands authentication right from the outset – the network-level authentication (NLA). Enterprises can look at it as another hurdle in front of any would-be intruders.
• Furthermore, businesses must build a firewalled fortress around their remote access services, to keep out any pesky un-authorized traffic.
• Businesses must also double-down on security with solutions like two-factor authentication (2FA). This way, users will have to “jump through an extra hoop”, before diving into your IT infrastructure.
• Enterprises must also draft a remote access policy that is tailored for RDP use. They should lay out the “dos and don’ts” of cybersecurity, and spell out the implications for not complying, so everyone is on the same page.
• Furthermore, enterprises must lock down remote access permissions, based on who really needs them. This is another good way of keeping the data safe and sound from potential vulnerabilities.

While RDP remains a widely used remote access vehicle, it is vital to acknowledge alternative remote access solutions, that may better suit specific use cases or security requirements.

Take Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) or Cloud-powered Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS), for instance. DaaS solutions offer a power-house of benefits, from centralized desktop management to robust, multi-layered security features, making them the top pick for those seeking secure remote access.

Conclusion

On a concluding note, it is clear that remote access security is extremely important in safeguarding our networks and data from the ever-present threat of cyberattacks. By embracing advanced encryption techniques, and staying ahead of the curve with the afore-mentioned solutions, we can fortify our Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) connections effectively.

Remember, our journey to secure remote access does not end with RDP. With ATSG, you get cutting-edge Cloud-powered Desktop as a Service (DaaS) solutions for your enterprise.

Our DaaS offering revolutionizes remote access by seamlessly integrating advanced security features, with un-paralleled flexibility and scalability. With ATSG’s DaaS solutions, businesses can enjoy secure remote access to their cloud desktop environments from anywhere, at any time, without compromising on performance, privacy, compliance, or data integrity.

ATSG has also been recognized as a Challenger in the 2023 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Desktop as a Service (DaaS). We believe this achievement further solidifies our position as a leading global provider of innovative and highly secure DaaS solutions, which are tailored to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.

Contact ATSG for cutting edge Managed IT Services and solutions, spanning across the Network, Operations, Cloud and Security.