RDP seems foreign to someone who doesn’t know what it is, but it is an essential network communications protocol that was developed by Microsoft. It is important to understand what RDP is as a computer user and why you need to find ways to secure it. We’ve come up with the following to help you understand it a little better.
What is RDP?
RDP stands for Remote Desktop Protocol. The software giant developed the protocol so that a user’s computer could connect to an external computer. When in action, it looks like something straight out of a science fiction movie or a spy film.
The protocol can be used by Windows, Mac, and Linux, which pretty much covers the most popular operating systems out there. Having this protocol and being able to use it effectively gives you and anyone you grant access to the opportunity to access your PC from an external device. The external device can share the same display and even interact with the person accessing those devices.
The following are some ways one can use this protocol:
When Traveling
Those who travel for work can use RDP to access your workplace desktop or laptop from wherever you are. You can access files, edit, and email or anything else you need to do as if you were right in front of your workplace device.
Without an Office
Sometimes, you cannot go into your office because you are busy or are not feeling 100 percent. RDP allows you to access your workplace desktop so that you can continue to monitor your work or complete projects from home or from wherever you are.
System Administrators
Administering protection and performance for a series of computers can be a little time-consuming if you have to access each computer in person. RDP removes that task and allows administrators to access devices from one computer to perform maintenance or deal with spyware or virus removal.
Why is Securing RDP so Important?
Okay, now that you know how helpful this protocol can be, you can begin to understand why it is crucial also to secure RDP as soon as possible. This kind of access to your devices can be invaluable to a cyber-criminal. That is what you are fighting.
The following are some of our tips to help you secure RDP:
Password Access
One of the most effective ways to guard your RDP access is to introduce a strong password. Any user that has RDP access needs to enter the right password every single time. This password should be changed often, and it also needs to contain special characters and numbers as well.
Software Updates
Make sure your RDP software is updated often. Each version comes with changes meant to keep the system safe from hackers or cyber-criminals. These changes will help with keeping up with higher encryptions, among other things. Older versions will make you a little more vulnerable, and that could put you and your entire network in jeopardy.
Use Firewalls
You can make sure you reduce the chances of something going wrong by limiting RDP access from devices or IP addresses that you do not know. To do this, you are going to have to start by finding the Windows Firewall with Advance Security using the computer’s search bar. Once you are in the firewall window, look for inbound rules, which should take you to another location where you’ll find RDP. Press on RDP, and then click on the scope tab where you can add IP addresses you trust.
Limit Usage
The more people have access to RDP functions, the more you put yourself and your entire network in danger. A big step to keeping yourself safe from cyber-criminals is to reduce the number of people to whom you give access. Stick to the bare minimum, and don’t be afraid to remove access if one of the users is a little careless. There is plenty of sensitive information in your network, and you don’t want to risk that.
Hopefully, this information makes it easier for you to understand RDP and why you must take steps to keep your network safe. RDP can be an enjoyable and helpful tool, but like any tool, it can be manipulated, which requires you to be extra cautious. You can talk to your cyber-security specialist to see if there is more you can do.
