You secure your network for remote work by enforcing multi-factor authentication on every access point, deploying endpoint detection and response on every device, using encrypted connections (VPN or zero trust network access), and applying the same security policies to remote workers that you apply in the office.
Why Does Remote Work Create Security Risks?
When employees work from the office, your network perimeter protects every device. Remote workers leave that perimeter. 92% of organizations express concern about ransomware attacks due to VPN vulnerabilities. The Verizon 2025 DBIR found that 60% of breaches involved a human element.
Remote work is not going away. Over 34 million Americans work from home, and for many Washington businesses, hybrid arrangements are a competitive necessity.
What Security Controls Do Remote Employees Need?
Multi-Factor Authentication on Everything
91% of companies now require MFA for all remote access points.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Every device that connects to business systems needs EDR.
Encrypted Connections: VPN or Zero Trust
63% of companies adopted zero trust as their core strategy in 2025, and 70% of new remote access deployments now use ZTNA instead of traditional VPNs.
Device Management and Policies
Full disk encryption, automatic updates, screen lock policies, remote wipe capability, and MDM for BYOD.
What About Home Wi-Fi Security?
Require VPN or ZTNA for all business access. Provide guidance on router security. The encryption from VPN/ZTNA is the primary control.
How Do I Handle Offboarding for Remote Employees?
Immediate account deactivation, remote wipe, VPN/ZTNA revocation, and hardware recovery.