Remote-access Guide

computer remote access policy

by Mr. Fabian O'Conner PhD Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Remote policies have guidelines for access that can include the following:

  • Hardware and software configuration standards for remote access, including anti-malware, firewalls, and antivirus
  • Encryption policies
  • Information security, confidentiality, and email policies
  • Physical and virtual device security
  • Access privileges, authentication, and access hierarchy
  • Password protocols

Remote access policy is a document which outlines and defines acceptable methods of remotely connecting to the internal network. It is essential in large organization where networks are geographically dispersed and extend into insecure network locations such as public networks or unmanaged home networks.

Full Answer

How to protect remote access?

To enable Remote Access in your UniFi Protect application:

  • Access the UniFi OS Console hosting Protect via its IP address. ...
  • Log in to your Ubiquiti SSO account.
  • Go to the System Settings > Advanced menu, and enable the Remote Access toggle.

How to properly secure remote access?

  • Windows or Mac login when connecting remotely
  • Request permission to connect to the user’s computer
  • Automatically blank the remote screen when connected
  • Automatically lock remote computer when disconnected
  • Lock the remote computer’s keyboard and mouse while in session
  • Lock the streamer settings using Splashtop admin credentials

How do I know if remote access is enabled?

  • Go back to System Preferences and click Security & Privacy.
  • Click the Firewall tab.
  • Click Firewall Options or Advanced.
  • If “Remote Management” doesn’t appear in the box with the phrase “Allow incoming connections,” click the + to add it, and then select Allow incoming connections.

How to mitigate risk with remote access?

  • Ensure your employees have all they need to securely work from home and know who to contact if they face an IT or security issue.
  • Schedule basic security awareness training for your employees. ...
  • Take key data protection measures including switching on password protection, encrypting work devices and ensuring data is backed up.

More items...

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What should be in a remote access policy?

A remote access policy should cover everything—from the types of users who can be given network access from outside the office to device types that can be used when connecting to the network. Once written, employees must sign a remote access policy acceptance form.

What are the four basic elements of a remote access policy?

Remote access policies consist of the following elements: conditions, permissions, and profiles. We'll discuss each of these elements in turn, and list how each can be used to control remote access attempts by your network clients.

How do I restrict remote access to my computer?

Open System and Security. Choose System in the right panel. Select Remote Settings from the left pane to open the System Properties dialog box for the Remote tab. Click Don't Allow Connections to This Computer and then click OK.

How a remote access policy may be used and its purpose?

The purpose of a remote access policy is to outline the expectations of those users' behaviors while connecting to your network in an attempt to safeguard that network from viruses, threats or other security incidents.

What are the types of remote access?

The primary remote access protocols in use today are the Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP), Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP), Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE), Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP), Remote Access Services (RAS), and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

What is a access policy?

n. Principles or procedures that control the conditions under which individuals have permission and ability to consult a repository's holdings.

Can hackers remotely access your computer?

Remote desktop hacks become a common way for hackers to access valuable password and system information on networks that rely on RDP to function. Malicious actors are constantly developing more and more creative ways to access private data and secure information that they can use as leverage for ransom payments.

What are the examples of remote user security policy best practices?

Best Practices For Remote Access SecurityEnable encryption. ... Install antivirus and anti-malware. ... Ensure all operating systems and applications are up to date. ... Enforce a strong password policy. ... Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) ... Use Virtual Private Network (VPN) ... Use two-factor authentication.More items...•

Is IT safe to allow remote access?

Remote access solutions could leave you vulnerable. If you don't have proper security solutions in place, remote connections could act as a gateway for cybercriminals to access your devices and data. Hackers could use remote desktop protocol (RDP) to remotely access Windows computers in particular.

How do you implement remote access?

How to use Remote DesktopSet up the PC you want to connect to so it allows remote connections: Make sure you have Windows 11 Pro. ... Use Remote Desktop to connect to the PC you set up: On your local Windows PC: In the search box on the taskbar, type Remote Desktop Connection, and then select Remote Desktop Connection.

What is a network access policy?

Network policies are sets of conditions, constraints, and settings that allow you to designate who is authorized to connect to the network and the circumstances under which they can or cannot connect.

What constraints are available for use in a remote access policy?

Once a remote access policy has authorized a connection, it can also set connection restrictions (called constraints) based on the following: Encryption strength. Idle timeout. IP packet filters.

What is a network access policy?

Network policies are sets of conditions, constraints, and settings that allow you to designate who is authorized to connect to the network and the circumstances under which they can or cannot connect.

What is the purpose of a privileged access policy?

Privileged access (root, superuser, or administrator) – Gives the user full and unrestricted access rights on the workstation/server. This includes installing any hardware or software, editing the registry, managing the default access accounts, and changing file-level permissions.

What is a VPN policy?

A VPN security policy is a policy that defines. just about everything that anyone would need to know about your VPN. It defines. things like who can use the VPN, what they can use it for, and what it is that. keeps them from using improperly or maliciously.

How to Enable Remote Desktop

The simplest way to allow access to your PC from a remote device is using the Remote Desktop options under Settings. Since this functionality was a...

Should I Enable Remote Desktop?

If you only want to access your PC when you are physically sitting in front of it, you don't need to enable Remote Desktop. Enabling Remote Desktop...

Why Allow Connections only With Network Level Authentication?

If you want to restrict who can access your PC, choose to allow access only with Network Level Authentication (NLA). When you enable this option, u...

What Is a Remote Access Policy?

For example, sales personnel can now use tablets and other mobile devices to connect remotely to their office networks while on client calls and bring up data that may be important for closing deals . Recent events have further boosted the number of remote workers to an estimated 42% of the US workforce.

Why Is a Remote Access Policy Important?

If a remote access policy is not in place, such risky behavior could go on unmitigated, without the organization finding out about it until after the occurrence of a breach.

What is remote work?

Remote work has brought with it a few challenges, including potential computer and network security risks. There is a real need for guidelines surrounding remote access, along with other policies. A remote access policy serves as a guide for remote users connecting to the network. It extends the policies governing network and computer use in ...

Why is password policy important?

It helps ensure that only those users who need it are given network access, as long as their devices are also compliant with the guidelines. When implemented properly, it helps safeguard the network from potential security threats.

What is RAS in IT?

Parallels® Remote Application Server (RAS) provides secure remote access for your networks out of the box. It features granular permission policies that enable administrators to enforce access restrictions and settings based on the end-users device or Active Directory group, helping ease the workloads of IT administrators by not requiring any further configuration.

What are the considerations when formulating a remote access policy?

Other considerations when formulating a remote access policy include but are not limited to the following: Standardized hardware and software, including firewalls and antivirus/antimalware programs. Data and network encryption standards. Information security and confidentiality. Email usage.

How to ensure that you do not miss anything when updating your remote access policy?

To ensure that you do not miss anything when updating your remote access policy, consider your organizational, legal, contractual and regulatory obligations when you compile the list of policy requirements. After that, identify the procedural and technical controls required to fulfill the policy, making sure to reinforce or replace existing controls that have not been effective.

Who must obtain prior approval from Information Security Office for remote access to Connecticut College?

4.3.6 Organizations or individuals who wish to implement non­standard Remote Access solutions to the Connecticut College production network must obtain prior approval from Information Security Office

What is the purpose of the Connecticut College network policy?

These standards are designed to minimize the potential security exposure to Connecticut College from damages which may result from unauthorized use of Connecticut College resources. Potential damages include the loss of sensitive or college confidential data, intellectual property, damage to public image, and damage to critical Connecticut College internal systems.

What is the responsibility of Connecticut College employees, students, and College Affiliates?

It is the responsibility of Connecticut College employees, students, and College Affiliates with remote access privileges to Connecticut College's campus network to ensure that their remote connection is given the same information security consideration as the user's on­site connection to Connecticut College.

What is an academic VPN?

a. Academic VPN allows all valid employees and students to access the College network resources.

Who approves exceptions to the policy?

Any exception to the policy must be approved by the Chief Information Security Officer in advance.

Can you use VPN on a computer in Connecticut?

VPN and general access to the Internet for recreational use by immediate household members through the Connecticut College network on college­owned computers is prohibited. The Connecticut College employee bears responsibility for the consequences should the access be misused as outlined in section 5.3 Non Compliance.

How to allow remote access to PC?

The simplest way to allow access to your PC from a remote device is using the Remote Desktop options under Settings. Since this functionality was added in the Windows 10 Fall Creators update (1709), a separate downloadable app is also available that provides similar functionality for earlier versions of Windows. You can also use the legacy way of enabling Remote Desktop, however this method provides less functionality and validation.

How to connect to a remote computer?

To connect to a remote PC, that computer must be turned on, it must have a network connection, Remote Desktop must be enabled, you must have network access to the remote computer (this could be through the Internet), and you must have permission to connect. For permission to connect, you must be on the list of users. Before you start a connection, it's a good idea to look up the name of the computer you're connecting to and to make sure Remote Desktop connections are allowed through its firewall.

How to remotely connect to Windows 10?

Windows 10 Fall Creator Update (1709) or later 1 On the device you want to connect to, select Start and then click the Settings icon on the left. 2 Select the System group followed by the Remote Desktop item. 3 Use the slider to enable Remote Desktop. 4 It is also recommended to keep the PC awake and discoverable to facilitate connections. Click Show settings to enable. 5 As needed, add users who can connect remotely by clicking Select users that can remotely access this PC .#N#Members of the Administrators group automatically have access. 6 Make note of the name of this PC under How to connect to this PC. You'll need this to configure the clients.

Should I enable Remote Desktop?

If you only want to access your PC when you are physically using it, you don't need to enable Remote Desktop. Enabling Remote Desktop opens a port on your PC that is visible to your local network. You should only enable Remote Desktop in trusted networks, such as your home. You also don't want to enable Remote Desktop on any PC where access is tightly controlled.

What is remote access?

Remote access refers to the process of connecting to internal resources from an external source (home, hotel, district, or other public area). The ability to securely and reliably connect to business resources from a remote location increases productivity.

Who bears full responsibility for any access misuse?

Users shall bear full responsibility for any access misuse

What is LEP password policy?

All user passwords shall be strong and follow guidelines and procedures in the [LEP] Access Control and Password Policy. Staff shall ensure that devices used for work purposes are not shared in a multi-user capacity, violate AUP conditions, or used in any inappropriate activity.

What is information security?

Information security shall determine the appropriate access methodology and hardening technologies up to and including two factor password authentication, smart card, or PKI technology with strong passphrases

What is LEP policy?

This policy defines standards for staff to connect to the [LEP] network from a remote location. These standards are designed to minimize potential exposures including loss of sensitive information, and limit exposure to security concerns through a consistent and standardized access method.

What happens if a staff member is found in a policy violation?

Staff members found in policy violation may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Can you use personal equipment to connect to a LEP network?

Personal equipment shall not be used to connect to the [LEP] network using remote connection software and exceptions require [Insert Appropriate Role] written approval

Why Is a Remote Access Policy Necessary?

The numerous types of mobile devices and the different ways to connect pose challenges for the IT department. Devices can include cell phones, tablets, laptops, and any other device a remote worker relies on to conduct business. They can be company owned and secured, personally owned and authorized by a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, or a combination. Each class of device has its own set of security challenges. According to the National Institute for Standards and Technology’s Guidelines for Managing the Security of Mobile Devices in the Enterprise, “…Security controls available for laptops today are quite different than those available for smartphones, tablets, and other mobile device types.” Since different devices demand different controls, the policy has to detail what is allowed, compliant, and secure. The policy should answer the following questions:

What Problems Arise Without a Remote Access Policy?

Therefore, consequences for misuse can also be clearly outlined to compel compliance and appropriate precautions for data use and access. Elements such as firewalls, connectivity guidelines, personal use restrictions, and antivirus updates can help IT prevent both malicious and accidental loss and disruption of corporate information assets. The remote access control policies also provide protections for confidentiality, intellectual property, and information compliance.

What Is Remote Access?

Remote access is any connection made to an organization's internal network and systems from an external source by a device or host. Remote locations can be almost anywhere in the world, from the employee’s home to an off-site office, hotels, transportation hubs, and cafes.

What is VPN policy?

Policies for VPN remote access can be standardized. These policies “shore up” and prevent the use of rogue devices and access by non-authorized users , including the worker's family members or housemates. The policy also enforces proper email protocols to protect information from being sent through unsecured or untrusted sources, and also provides rules that limit or prohibit split tunnel configurations that allow mobile users to access both secure and unsecure networks simultaneously.

What is telecommuting?

“Telecommuting,” a term coined in the 1970s, has experienced explosive growth in today’s era of mobile connectivity. Now called distributed offices, remote work, telework, mobile work, smart work, and work shifting, many people are finding flexibility and increased productivity conducting business away from a centralized office environment. Researchers have long studied the benefits of remote work - from the successes that remote work had on traffic reduction during the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics to the 2016 findings by a Gallup survey on the increased hours for remote work.

What percentage of people work remotely?

According to research conducted by Gallup, 43 percent of workers in the U.S. worked remotely at least some of the time in 2016. Remote workers report higher job satisfaction and flexibility, experience fewer distractions and interruptions, and are more productive. Companies experience less absenteeism, less stress on office accommodations, and realize greater employee retention. A recent New York Times article found that finance, insurance, real estate, and transportation were most likely to have and support remote work (retail and education were least likely candidates). The trend is only increasing: the 2016 Gallup poll also found that those who work remotely log more hours away from the office than was reported in their 2012 findings. Not only are people logging more hours, but remote workers are saving money when it comes to commuting costs and businesses are saving on office space expenses.

Why is remote access important?

Software organizations where development engineers need to connect across multiple locations, small organizations lacking office-space, and large, enterprise organizations all want to offer the most flexible work options in order to attract high-ranking candidates and reap the rewards of having such a policy.

Why you need a remote access policy

Access to IT and business resources -- data, databases, systems and networks -- must be protected from unauthorized and potentially damaging attacks. Securing access to company resources from employees working remotely ensures IT assets and employees are shielded from potential disruptions.

How to create a remote access security policy

Remote access security policies should be developed by a cross-functional team to address operational, legal, competitive and other issues associated with remote access to information resources. The team should coordinate with internal departments for input on their remote access requirements and with HR to ensure uniform compliance by employees.

Remote access security policy sample

A remote access security policy can be simple. In fact, a few paragraphs added to an existing cybersecurity policy may be sufficient. The policy language should define remote access security activities and how they build on existing security policies and procedures, noting the metrics discussed previously.

Why is remote access important?

Today, every organization should have a robust remote access policy that provides employees with clear direction on how to connect securely when at home or on the road. As remote work opportunities increase and travel remains a big part of corporate life, it’s more important than ever for organizations to ensure their employees have a secure means of accessing critical corporate data from any location.

What is remote access in a company name?

Remote access is defined as any connection to [COMPANY NAME]’s internal network from a location outside of any affiliated company offices.

How should VPN usage be monitored?

Monitoring. Remote access and VPN usage should be logged and monitored in a central database and reviewed regularly to detect anomalies and make changes to remote access privileges.

How long do remote users have to log in?

Remote access must be logged in a central database and kept for a period of at least 30 days. Access logs must be reviewed regularly.

What is the purpose of the Company Name policy?

The intent of this policy is to establish guidelines specifically pertaining to remote access to [COMPANY NAME]’s internal network. Preventing unauthorized access to company data from insecure networks is of utmost importance to [COMPANY NAME]. This policy is designed to ensure remote and/or traveling employees have the ability to securely connect to the corporate network without fear of threat and to provide the Company with an additional means of monitoring and controlling access to the internal network.

What to do if your connection is compromised?

If you believe your connection may have been compromised, please immediately report the incident to [RELEVANT CONTACT].

Is multifactor authentication required for VPN?

And to make it even stronger, we recommend multi-factor authentication as a requirement for VPN access. Restricted use. Remote access privileges shouldn’t be given out in the office like candy, but rather on an as-needed basis.

What is remote desktop policy?

This policy setting allows you to configure remote access to computers by using Remote Desktop Services.

What is a policy setting for remote desktop services?

This policy setting specifies whether to prevent the mapping of client drives in a Remote Desktop Services session (drive redirection).

What happens if you don't configure this policy setting?

If you do not configure this policy setting, client drive redirection and Clipboard file copy redirection are not specified at the Group Policy level.

What is FIPS compliant?

The FIPS compliant setting encrypts and decrypts data sent from the client to the server and from the server to the client, with the Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 140 encryption algorithms, by using Microsoft cryptographic modules.

How to limit number of users on remote desktop?

You can limit the number of users who can connect simultaneously by configuring the policy setting at Computer ConfigurationAdministrative TemplatesWindows ComponentsRemote Desktop ServicesRemote Desktop Session HostConnectionsLimit number of connections, or by configuring the policy setting Maximum Connections by using the Remote Desktop Session Host WMI Provider.

What is client compatible?

Client Compatible: The Client Compatible setting encrypts data sent between the client and the server at the maximum key strength supported by the client. Use this encryption level in environments that include clients that do not support 128-bit encryption.

Is clipboard file copy redirection allowed?

In addition, Clipboard file copy redirection is always allowed if Clipboard redirection is allowed. If you do not configure this policy setting, client drive redirection and Clipboard file copy redirection are not specified at the Group Policy level. Tip.

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