10 Remote Work Security Best Practices

10 Remote Work Security Best Practices Every Business Should Follow

Remote work has transformed how companies operate, offering flexibility, cost savings, and access to a wider talent pool. But this shift also creates new challenges — especially in cybersecurity. With employees connecting from home offices, coffee shops, and shared workspaces, sensitive company data is more exposed than ever.

At Ace Technology Group, we’ve seen firsthand how a proactive approach can protect businesses from costly cyberattacks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 remote work security best practices every business should follow to keep data, devices, and networks safe.

1. Enforce Strong Password Policies

Weak or reused passwords are one of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to gain access to your systems. Require employees to use unique, complex passwords for all work-related accounts.

Best practices include:

At least 12 characters in length
A mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and special characters
Password managers to store and generate secure passwords
Regular password updates (every 60–90 days)

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds a critical layer of protection by requiring an additional verification step beyond a password. Even if login credentials are compromised, MFA makes it significantly harder for attackers to gain access.

Popular MFA methods include:

One-time codes via SMS or email
Authentication apps like Google Authenticator or Microsoft Authenticator
Hardware security keys

3. Secure Wi-Fi Networks

Home Wi-Fi networks can be a weak link in remote work security. Require employees to:

Change default router passwords
Enable WPA3 or WPA2 encryption
Avoid using public Wi-Fi for work (or use a secure VPN if unavoidable)
Keep routers’ firmware updated

4. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept data. This is essential when employees are working from public spaces or unsecured networks.

Your business should:

Provide a company-approved VPN solution
Require VPN use for any remote access to internal systems
Regularly update VPN software for security patches

5. Keep Devices Updated and Patched

Cybercriminals often exploit known vulnerabilities in outdated software. Implement a policy that ensures:

Automatic updates for operating systems and applications
Prompt installation of security patches
Centralized device management for company-owned equipment

6. Limit Access Based on Role

Not every employee needs access to all company data. Use role-based access controls to ensure team members only see the information they need to perform their jobs.

This minimizes:

The risk of accidental data exposure
The impact of a compromised account

7. Implement Endpoint Security

Every device used for work — laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones — should have advanced endpoint protection. This includes:

Next-generation antivirus software
Firewalls
Intrusion detection and prevention systems
Remote wipe capabilities for lost or stolen devices

8. Provide Security Awareness Training

Human error is a leading cause of data breaches. Regular training helps employees recognize and avoid threats such as:

Phishing emails
Social engineering scams
Malicious links and attachments

Training should be ongoing and include simulated phishing exercises to reinforce learning.

Keep Reading: 5 Real-World Phishing Email Examples for Training

9. Establish a Clear Remote Work Policy

A well-documented policy sets clear expectations for security practices. Include:

Approved devices and software
VPN and MFA requirements
Data storage and sharing guidelines
Incident reporting procedures

Having this policy in place ensures consistency and accountability across your remote workforce.

10. Regularly Back Up Data

No matter how strong your defenses are, breaches and data loss can still happen. Frequent backups ensure you can recover quickly. Best practices include:

Automated backups to secure cloud storage or offsite servers
Testing backups regularly to confirm data can be restored
Encrypting backup files for added protection

Final Thoughts

Remote work offers incredible advantages for businesses and employees, but it also demands a stronger commitment to cybersecurity. By following these 10 best practices, you can reduce risks, protect sensitive information, and maintain productivity — no matter where your team works.

At Ace Technology Group, we help businesses implement secure, scalable remote work solutions that keep teams connected and protected. Whether you need advanced endpoint protection, VPN deployment, or ongoing security training, our experts are here to help.

Ready to strengthen your remote work security? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

10 Remote Work Security Best Practices Every Business Should Follow