Hybrid Work Security: Making remote work more secure

Today's companies require much more flexible security concepts than before; firewalls alone are insufficient. Modern security architectures now incorporate VPNs, SD-WAN, SASE, and SSE to enforce security policies, regardless of the user's location.

Traditional working models that involve clocking in and out with fixed office hours are becoming obsolete. Today, the workplace is characterized by flexibility, remote work, and networking. According to a survey by the market research company IDC, only 20% of the companies surveyed still use the traditional office model.

The remaining four-fifths of companies are undergoing significant changes, some of which have already started, largely driven by the Coronavirus pandemic. While 32% of companies anticipate changes in the near future, they are unsure about the exact details. Meanwhile, 36%are preparing for a hybrid work model that allows flexible switching between office and remote work. A forward-thinking 11% are already planning to adopt a completely remote working environment, eliminating the need for traditional office space.

While changes in the workplace are significant, new risks emerge when employees and resources are no longer within the protective boundaries of the corporate office.

Characteristics of the modern working environment

In the past, the situation was simpler: the perimeter was clearly defined. Inside this perimeter, it was safe, while dangers lurked outside. However, this perspective is no longer accurate. Most IT decision-makers have come to understand that the reality is much more complex.

Risks are prevalent everywhere, including within your corporate network. In recent years, hackers have consistently breached networks across the globe, manipulating or stealing sensitive data. Additionally, the risk posed by disgruntled employees seeking to profit from confidential business information is on the rise.

Many employees also access company data remotely or from home. They often rely on cloud services and data rather than internal applications.

Today, employees have greater flexibility regarding their work locations. Depending on their tasks and personal preferences, they can work in the office, at home, or while on the go. Collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Asana allow for effective teamwork from anywhere, as long as the internet connection is secure and stable.

Security precautions for hybrid working models

In the past, firewalls were central to corporate security. However, one-dimensional security strategies are no longer effective. Today, a targeted combination of various approaches is necessary for robust protection. Securing remote connections is vital for security in hybrid environments. Virtual private networks (VPNs) are especially suitable for this purpose and can be further secured with additional measures.

Encrypted VPN tunnels are only the first step in implementing effective security measures. To further protect the network, it's essential to use additional methods such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and one-time passwords generated on secure devices. These measures help ensure that unauthorized individuals cannot gain access to the network.

Zero Trust takes security a step further by verifying every device and access attempt before granting authorization. This enhanced protection extends to internal structures that are no longer automatically deemed “secure.”

The security of end devices is important, whether they are located inside or outside the corporate office. Installing a modern endpoint security solution that can be centrally managed and updated is essential. Additionally, local firewalls and thorough monitoring measures should be implemented as crucial security precautions in today's environment

VPN technology is continuously evolving.

VPNs are adapting to changes in the workplace. Today, they are integrated with modern security and networking technologies such as SASE, SD-WAN, and SSE, providing comprehensive solutions from a single provider.

• SD-WAN (Software Defined Area Network) modernizes classic wide-area networks. Instead of expensive fixed line connections, the technology uses commercially available Internet access to network company sites.
• Consulting company Gartner developed SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) to address security concepts in SD-WANs. SASE is a flexible architecture that combines SD-WAN services with security functions such as Zero Trust or VPNaaS (VPN as a Service) as a cloud solution.
• Starting with SASE can be daunting for some companies. In response, Gartner introduced SSE (Security Service Edge), which focuses specifically on the security components of SASE and allows for future expansion.

Technical measures are important, but the human factor remains crucial for a successful security strategy.

Training and raising awareness for employees

Security awareness training is crucial for defending against cyber threats. Almost daily, the media reports on instances where untrained employees fall victim to simple spam emails and click on phishing links. The consequences are well-known: when a malicious downloader infects a system on the corporate network, it can download additional harmful code, which can spread throughout the network, encrypting and stealing data along the way.

Regular training by specialists is essential for educating employees about the latest phishing tactics, social engineering methods, and other security risks. While this training does not guarantee complete protection, identifying and deleting spam emails can significantly enhance the security of the entire company.

With NCP's solutions, you are well-prepared to secure hybrid working environments. Our central management software allows you to specify which users, groups, and applications can access particular network resources.

The perfect building block for your Zero Trust strategy