Virtual Desktops: Improving Security & Compliance for your Remote Workforce
Long before the global crisis began, companies with existing remote employees turned to IT departments and IT service providers to offer solutions to their remote safety concerns. One of the most common tools used was Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). Now, at the heart of social distancing, this same tool has been called upon to collectively initiate seamless and secure continuity for the many businesses needing to instantly convert to a non-traditional remote workforce model.
How it Works
Rather than using a physically present device such as a laptop or PC to access and store data, virtual desktop infrastructure uses a centralized server to host a desktop environment (operating systems file folders, icons, tools, applications, etc.). By doing so, a user can access the virtualized desktop on any device through network access. In other words, the main functions of traditional computer are virtually hosted from a central location and can then be accessed by any device, from any location.
Why Virtual Desktops?
Virtual Desktops provide the highest level of security and compliance to organizations with remote employees. These are two areas of major concern when thinking about how remote work can affect the organization’s overall data security.
Security Benefits of Virtual Desktops
Prevention of Data Exfiltration - VDI offers improved security features through centralization, meaning all data created and accessed during a connection lives on the server itself and does not transfer to the user’s device. Furthermore, USB and file transfers to local devices can be disabled, mitigating any chance of employee data theft. Administrators can also apply optional software to prevent exfiltration via email, webmail, IM, and other methods.
Prevention of Data Theft - As stated, VDI centralizes all data management, systems and applications. With no sensitive data being stored on the user’s device, not only will it prevent any user data theft, but it will also mitigate the risks of cyber criminals being able to directly gain access to the company’s system via infiltration of a user’s personal device.
Tamper Resistance - When working outside the confines of the physical office, there is always a chance that a physical device can be stolen, lost or damaged. Having no physical access to files, means the only way someone can access the files, other than the intended user, would be to circumvent electronic security measures (obtaining log-in credentials).
Embedded Activity Monitoring - User activity monitoring can be built directly into the virtual desktop image. Any onscreen user sessions and activity can be logged enabling an in-depth look for compliance and incident response handling.
Work Securely from Anywhere - The ability to work from anywhere and on any device provides the user with a highly efficient and safe way to work without worry of losing hardware or portable storage devices. VDI provides an added layer of security to the network itself as the actions of one user will not affect others on the centralized network.
Let’s Start the Conversation
If you are a happier IT client and need help getting setup with VDI, please reach out to us and we will get you in touch with your happier IT vCIO - team@happierit.com.
If you’re not yet a happier IT client, but you are interested in becoming one or have questions on how suitable VDI is for your remote team, please contact sales@happierit.com.