Remote Work with the Right Technology and Security

In today’s world, the remote workforce is all too common. After Covid, remote working quickly became a reality, and it looks like remote working is here to stay. In the age of remote work, it’s important to have the right technology and security measures for your team’s success. We will explore methods to ensure that your remote workers stay connected, collaborate effectively, and work securely from any location.

Let’s break down the most critical aspects for a successful work from home environment.

Computer Hardware Essentials

Computer hardware forms the foundation of any remote work setup. Whether your team is working full-time from home or in a hybrid environment, having the right technology for working is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal computer hardware setup for remote working.

Laptop Setup: For a seamless remote employee workstation setup, follow these steps:

Laptop Hardware – Invest in a powerful business laptop with an Intel I5 processor or equivalent. 8gb of RAM should be sufficient for most remote employees, however 16gb would be ideal.
Utilize a USB-C Docking Station – Modern USB-C docking stations are a game-changer. They provide easy compatibility and multiple USB-C ports. This allows your employees effortlessly attach additional devices such as monitors, keyboards, mice, external hard drives, and even printers. This transforms their humble laptop into a powerful workstation, enhancing their capabilities and enabling them to work more efficiently.
Add Dual Monitors – Boost productivity by equipping your remote team with dual monitors. This setup offers the convenience of working on multiple screens, enhancing multitasking capabilities.
Wireless Routers and Extenders – Ensuring a dependable and high-speed internet connection is a must. Consider providing wireless routers or extenders to remote employees, especially in areas with unreliable internet.

Access and Security

Access Tools for Remote Teams

To keep your remote workers connected and productive, you will need tech solutions that are both user-friendly and secure:

SharePoint: This cloud-based platform simplifies access by syncing folders to the file explorer, creating a familiar and efficient workspace. SharePoint can be used to share company wide files securely within a department, project, or org wide similar to a traditional file server.

Project management tools: Utilize tools such as Microsoft Planner or Microsoft To-Do to keep your remote team organized and on task. Utilizing tools like this help everyone be more efficient and productive while working from home.

Line of Business Applications: Even though many businesses use cloud-based tools, some still need specific applications that use a server. In these cases, a VPN or a terminal server may come in handy for remote access to on-prem resources.

Microsoft Teams: This platform serves as a centralized hub for your remote team. It offers chat functionality, video conferencing tools, seamless data transfer, and project management features, all in one place. It’s like having your virtual office readily available, making collaboration a breeze through multiple communication channels.

OneDrive: With OneDrive, your remote employees can access their files anytime and from anywhere. It provides secure cloud-based storage, enabling team members to collaborate on documents in real-time.

Data Security for Remote Work

Security is a top concern when your employees access company data remotely. Protecting your business against unauthorized access and data breaches is always a must:

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Think of MFA as your extra layer of security, spruced up with mobile push notifications. It’s like having an extra lock on your door, making it much tougher for identity attacks to breach.
Anti-Virus Software: Install trusted anti-virus software on all computers to safeguard against malware and cyber threats. Consider this your trusty digital shield. Installing trusted anti-virus software on all your computers is a must. It protects your systems from malware and cyber threats.
Conditional Access Policies: These policies control your data, keeping it within the company and preventing it from being on personal devices. Your IT team can set up and manage these policies effectively.
Managed Detection and Response (MDR): MDR is an essential layer of security, often required by cybersecurity insurance policies. It’s there to protect your devices by quickly finding and dealing with possible dangers.

Conclusion

As remote work continues to grow and evolve, it’s crucial to adapt to the changing landscape. To succeed in remote work, give your team the right computers, secure access, and use communication tools well.

Remember, the key to success lies in finding the right balance between technology and human interaction. Encourage regular communication, set clear expectations, and prioritize security.