As remote and hybrid work models become the norm, supporting remote teams securely is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) like NPI play a critical role in helping these firms maintain productivity, collaboration, and data security across distributed work-forces.
Here’s a practical guide to the tools and strategies every IT Partner should implement to support remote teams securely.
1. Secure Remote Access: The Foundation of Remote Work
Remote access is the gateway to your firm’s systems and data. Without proper controls, it can also be the weakest link.
Best Practices:
- Use Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) with Gateway Security: RDP allows employees to securely access their office desktops from remote locations. When configured with a secure RDP gateway, strong authentication, and network-level encryption, it provides a reliable and controlled method for remote access.
- Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds a second layer of protection, making it harder for attackers to compromise accounts.
- Limit Access by Role: Implement role-based access controls to ensure employees only access the data and systems they need.
2. Cloud File Sharing: Secure, Seamless Collaboration
Cloud-based file sharing is essential for remote teams—but it must be done securely.
Recommended Tool: Microsoft OneDrive / SharePoint
Alternative Open-Source Tool: ProtonDrive
Security Tips:
- Enable version control and file recovery to protect against accidental deletions or ransomware.
- Use access expiration and link permissions to control who can view or edit files.
- Monitor file activity with audit logs to detect unusual behavior.
3. Collaboration Tools: Productivity Without Compromise
Remote teams need to communicate and collaborate in real time. But not all tools are created equal when it comes to security.
Top Pick:
- Microsoft Teams – Integrated with Office 365, ideal for document collaboration and video meetings.
Security Considerations:
- Use enterprise licenses to access advanced security features.
- Set meeting passwords and waiting rooms to prevent unauthorized access.
- Regularly review user permissions and guest access settings.
4. Endpoint Protection: Guarding the Front Lines
Every laptop, tablet, and smartphone is a potential entry point for cyber threats.
Must-Have Protections:
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools to monitor and respond to threats in real time.
- Mobile Device Management (MDM) to enforce security policies and remotely wipe lost or stolen devices.
- Automatic patching to keep operating systems and applications up to date.
5. User Training: Your First Line of Defense
Technology alone isn’t enough. Human error remains the leading cause of data breaches.
Training Topics to Cover:
- Phishing awareness
- Password hygiene
- Secure file sharing
- Remote work best practices
Offer quarterly training sessions and simulated phishing tests to keep security top of mind.
6. Backup and Disaster Recovery: Prepare for the Unexpected
Even with the best defenses, incidents can happen. A solid backup and disaster recovery plan ensures business continuity.
Key Elements:
- Automated, encrypted backups stored offsite or in the cloud
- Regular testing of recovery procedures
- Clear RTO (Recovery Time Objective) and RPO (Recovery Point Objective) targets
Final Thoughts
Supporting remote teams securely requires a layered approach which combines secure access, collaboration tools, endpoint protection, and user education. Our role is to guide clients through this evolving landscape with proactive strategies and trusted technologies.
By implementing these best practices, you’ll not only protect your clients’ data but also empower their teams to work confidently from anywhere.
