Is your company really ready for remote work?

Your company is ready for remote work if employees can work from home as securely as in the office: protected access to company data, managed and up-to-date computers, accounts with two-step verification and correctly configured collaboration apps.

We wrote this article in October 2020, when the pandemic had moved much of companies’ work home overnight. Since then, remote work and the hybrid workplace have become commonplace, and the recommendations below still apply in 2026, with a few additions.

Accessing the infrastructure remotely, securely

The most widely used solution for working from home is the VPN tunnel. It lets users access the file server and other equipment at the company’s office straight from their pajamas, in the comfort of their home. For this, RezolvIT recommends a UTM router (see the difference between a router, a firewall and a UTM).

A UTM device provides a high level of security: it protects users’ VPN traffic, blocks malicious and disreputable sites, and lets you restrict web browsing by type of content. Websites and online platforms are sorted into categories (for example social media, gambling, adult content), and restrictions can be set individually, for specific users, or for groups set up by department.

In short, it’s the kind of device that helps managers and annoys users.

Whatever the solution, remote access happens only with two-step verification (MFA), and the VPN device’s firmware is updated as soon as the manufacturer releases a security fix. VPN devices are among attackers’ favorite targets.

High-performance antivirus and anti-malware protection

Since people started working from home on devices the company doesn’t manage, the number of security incidents has gone up too. That’s why we recommend a security solution that can be managed from a cloud console.

It adds the computers to a console, where security rules can be configured and adjusted centrally. You no longer need to access each computer to check its protection status or roll out new rules.

Solutions like these are very restrictive, and IT managers unblock only the services users need. That way, security improves.

Today, the same console usually also manages updates, disk encryption (BitLocker, FileVault) and remote data wipes if a laptop is lost or stolen. For Windows computers, it can even be Microsoft Intune, included in some Microsoft 365 subscriptions, such as Business Premium. If employees also work from their personal devices, read our article on using personal devices for work.

Cloud collaboration solutions

Another rising trend at the time was the adoption of cloud solutions that make teamwork easier. Whether it’s Microsoft 365 (formerly Office 365), Microsoft Teams or Google Workspace, these have since become the apps employees use every day.

They’re fairly easy to manage and use if they’re implemented correctly. With OneDrive and SharePoint, people collaborate on files stored in the cloud, and Teams lets users start conference calls, transfer files or share their screen, with the option of easily giving another person control of their computer.

Data in Microsoft 365 needs backup too: the recycle bin and version history don’t replace a separate backup copy. See why you need backup for SaaS applications.

What else should you check in 2026?

• Two-step verification for email, VPN and all cloud applications.
• Computers with an up-to-date operating system. Windows 10 stopped receiving free updates on October 14, 2025, and compatible computers can move to Windows 11 for free. See how to do the free upgrade to Windows 11.
• The home network: a router with its default password changed and updated firmware, and Wi-Fi protected with WPA2 or WPA3. Details in our article on how to secure your office or home wireless network.
• Written rules: which devices are used, where files are saved and how an incident is reported. In Romania, telework is regulated by Law no. 81/2018, and its terms are written into the employment contract.
• New hires and departures: computers and accounts for people joining are ready from day one, and access for people leaving is closed on their last day.

RezolvIT is an IT outsourcing company ready to implement these solutions, so our clients’ employees can work securely from anywhere. Ask for a free IT audit to find out what needs fixing in your company.