The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world in many ways, and one of them has forced companies to find other ways to deal with remote workers.
VDI (Virtual Desktop Infrastructure) allows employees to remotely access virtual desktops using any device of their choice. This has made working from home much easier.
Nonetheless, employees working from home provide more opportunities for hackers to gain access to company systems. While virtual desktop environments are more secure than standalone desktops, businesses need to be very aware of security issues and ensure they have effective security measures in place to protect themselves. They can do this in the following ways.
Using encryption technology
Different businesses deal with different types of sensitive information, such as medical and financial data. It is therefore important to ensure that they encrypt their data to prevent unauthorised access.
When transmitting data, they also need to ensure that their services have used end-to-end encryption, which helps to prevent data interception by third parties.
Securing all Platforms
Virtual desktop infrastructures can run on multiple operating systems at the same time, such as Windows, macOS and Linux. To ensure the security of the infrastructure, companies should implement a security policy that works across all platforms installed on the VDI.
Employing Coherent Security Approaches
It’s worth noting that virtual desktop environments offer plenty of opportunities for attackers to exploit. Some companies believe that if they have their file servers, disks and desktops secured, security is sufficient. But this is not the case.
Companies also need to protect the various endpoint devices that their partners and employees use to access the virtual desktop environment.
Installing an Antivirus Software
Virtual desktop environments have many security advantages that lead some companies to believe that they do not need antivirus software. Companies with a virtual desktop infrastructure can indeed control how viruses spread, but they cannot prevent infection.
Therefore, companies should install anti-virus software specifically designed for virtual desktop environments to ensure their security.
Implementing the Use of Thin Clients
Not all users who have access to a corporate virtual desktop environment are aware of the different security policies they need to follow. Sometimes these can create vulnerabilities that attackers can use to unknowingly access the VDI or even install potentially insecure applications.
The use of a thin client ensures that devices connected to the VDI cannot permanently make configuration changes or install insecure applications.
Training Employees
Moving to a virtual desktop environment may mean that some, if not all, of your company’s employees, are using this infrastructure for the first time in their lives. Rather than letting them learn on their own what to do or how to get started, it’s good practice to provide them with relevant training in cyberspace.
As part of the training, make sure that there is a whole section dedicated to security and that they are given enough time to educate them on the various security measures they need to follow when accessing VDI.
Security Consultants
Some companies may not have the resources to hire experienced security professionals. To ensure that the correct security measures are implemented and the necessary regulations are followed, they should consult a security expert who can help them if problems arise.
Finally, it is important to ensure that firewalls are always kept up to date with the company’s requirements. While virtual desktop environments provide convenience and reduce operational costs for businesses, they also create security problems that can have serious consequences if not addressed.
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