7 security features every remote desktop tool should have
For any organisation bringing new tech on board, protecting both business and customer data is an absolute priority. That’s not just a consideration for ‘resting data’ in databases – you need to protect data that’s ‘in transit’ too, such as when you’re supporting managed or on-demand devices.
If you’re currently looking at buying a remote desktop tool to support your organisation, here’s a practical 7-point security checklist of what to think about security-wise…
1. Zero trust
‘Zero trust’ does what it says on the tin: the solution ‘trusts’ nothing and nobody until you actively tell it to. This builds in security by default, as there won’t be any options open out of the box that can allow data to leak or unauthorised persons to use your solution.
2. Secure with MFA
Multi-factor authentication puts up well-chosen barriers for any bad actors trying to get into your systems.
Installing MFA on all remote access accounts as well as the main portal is good practice. Tools that support appbased codes or hardware keys, rather than SMS messages alone, are also excellent for added security.
3. Granular access
Look for rolebased access control (RBAC) so your staff can only reach specific servers or PCs and only carry out the actions (e.g., view, control, file transfer) they genuinely need to.
Another tip is to ensure it’s quick and easy for you to review and remove a person’s access - including for employees who leave or external IT providers who are only briefly on site.
4. Meeting security standards
A sign of a company that is dedicated to security is to check if it has achieved industry-level security standards such as SOC 2 and/or ISO/IEC 27001.
These are both well-respected worldwide and achieving them takes considerable time and effort. But if a company has gone through the rigorous assessments required to do so, it’s a good indicator that security will be at the forefront of their product.
5. Strong encryption
A stand-out remote access tool will use modern, wellconfigured TLS for all connections, plus strong AES256 encryption to secure against unauthorised access and protect data in transit – in other words, while you’re performing remote support with your customers/members of staff.
Did you know? AES-256 is used by governments, financial institutions, VPNs, in password manager applications and more – that’s how effective it is.
6. Activity log
Ensure your chosen solution has an activity log. This way, you’ll always know who connected to which machine and when, from where, and what actions they performed or what changes they made. It comes in really handy when you need to track back and investigate the nitty gritty of a problem where there could be a potential security issue.
7. Your data, nearby
If it’s important to your business to keep its data within your legal jurisdiction, then choose a solution that hosts it as locally as you can. This usually means having it sited in a country or region (e.g., UK, USA, EU) that most closely aligns with the laws you follow.
Some vendors/solutions are transparent about this, which is great. If it’s important to you though and you don’t see the information on their website, then double check by asking the question.
Check out 247connect
Strong on security and diligent with your data, 247connect remote desktop software is a simple, affordable solution for any SME or education organisation.
Find out for yourself with a free trial!
Want a personalised overview of 247connect to explore the benefits it can offer your organisation?
Book a demo with our friendly team to take a closer look!