The Importance of Network Security in a Remote Work Era

Remote work has transformed how businesses operate, providing employees with flexibility and increasing productivity. However, with the rise of remote and hybrid work environments, businesses face heightened cybersecurity risks as employees access company networks from various locations and devices. Network security has never been more critical, as cyber threats continue to evolve, targeting remote workers through phishing attacks, unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and endpoint vulnerabilities.

Why Network Security Matters More Than Ever

Businesses in Tulsa and across the U.S. are experiencing increased cyberattacks as remote work expands the attack surface for hackers. Common security risks include:

• Unsecured Home Networks – Employees working remotely may use personal Wi-Fi networks that lack proper security protocols.
• Phishing & Social Engineering Attacks – Cybercriminals target remote employees with fraudulent emails and malicious links.
• Device & Endpoint Vulnerabilities – Unprotected devices can serve as entry points for malware and ransomware.
• Lack of Centralized IT Control – Without strong network security policies, businesses struggle to monitor and protect remote connections.

To combat these challenges, businesses must implement robust network security measures to protect sensitive data and ensure business continuity.

Best Practices for Strengthening Network Security in Remote Work Environments

A proactive approach to network security can reduce cyber threats, safeguard company data, and ensure secure remote access. Here are the best practices businesses should adopt:

1. Secure Remote Access with VPNs & Zero Trust Security

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts data and provides a secure connection between remote employees and corporate networks.

• Deploy enterprise-grade VPN solutions to protect remote connections.
• Implement Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) to verify every user and device before granting access.
• Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to add an extra layer of security to VPN access.

2. Protect Endpoints with Advanced Security Measures

Endpoints—such as laptops, tablets, and mobile devices—are the most vulnerable points in a remote work setup.

• Install Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions to detect and respond to threats in real-time.
• Enable automatic security patches and updates to prevent exploits.
• Require strong password policies and implement password managers for secure credential storage.

For a deeper dive into why endpoint security is crucial in 2025, check out our insights in Why Endpoint Security Is Critical in 2025.

3. Enforce Strong Email Security Measures

Phishing emails are one of the most common cyberattack methods targeting remote employees.

• Deploy AI-driven email security filters to detect and block malicious messages.
• Train employees on how to recognize phishing attempts and avoid clicking suspicious links.
• Implement DMARC, SPF, and DKIM email authentication protocols to prevent email spoofing.

4. Implement Cloud Security Best Practices

Many remote teams rely on cloud-based applications for collaboration. Ensuring cloud security is essential for protecting business data.

• Use secure cloud storage solutions with encryption and access controls.
• Enable role-based access controls (RBAC) to restrict data access to authorized personnel only.
• Regularly audit and monitor cloud activity logs for any unusual behavior.

5. Monitor & Secure Employee Devices

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies increase flexibility but also introduce security risks.

• Require device registration and endpoint security software on personal devices.
• Use Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions to enforce security policies.
• Enable remote wiping capabilities to erase sensitive data from lost or stolen devices.

6. Establish a Strong Incident Response & Disaster Recovery Plan

Even with preventive measures, security breaches can still occur. A well-defined incident response and disaster recovery plan helps businesses recover quickly and minimize damage.

• Create a detailed response strategy outlining roles and responsibilities.
• Conduct regular cybersecurity drills to test response effectiveness.
• Maintain offsite data backups to prevent data loss during an attack.

For a deeper look at IT disaster recovery strategies and how businesses can ensure continuity after cyber incidents, explore our guide on Top IT Disaster Recovery Plans for Medium Businesses and Enterprises in Tulsa.

7. Educate Employees on Cybersecurity Awareness

Human error remains a leading cause of security breaches. Ongoing cybersecurity training empowers employees to recognize and mitigate potential threats.

• Conduct monthly security awareness training sessions.
• Provide employees with real-world phishing simulations.
• Encourage a security-first mindset by integrating cybersecurity into company culture.

How Combined Technology Protects Tulsa Businesses with Network Security Solutions

At Combined Technology, we specialize in providing comprehensive network security solutions for businesses in Tulsa and beyond. Our managed IT services ensure that your organization stays protected in the evolving remote work landscape. We offer:

• Secure VPN & Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Solutions
• Endpoint Security & Threat Detection Services
• Cloud Security & Compliance Management
• 24/7 Network Monitoring & Incident Response
• Employee Cybersecurity Training & Phishing Simulations

As remote work continues to shape the modern workforce, network security must remain a top priority for businesses. By implementing strong security measures, training employees, and partnering with a trusted IT provider like Combined Technology, businesses can safeguard sensitive data and prevent cyber threats. Investing in proactive network security strategies will ensure secure and scalable operations in the remote work era.