Why choosing the right IT solutions for VPN, RDS, and access control could save your business

In today’s work-from-anywhere world, flexibility is essential — but so is cybersecurity. For small to mid-sized businesses, especially in professional sectors like architecture, law, and consulting, the challenge is clear:

How do you enable remote or hybrid working without putting your data and systems at risk?

At Zuri IT, we’ve worked with clients across the UK to design secure, scalable remote working solutions that actually work — without compromising security, performance, or user experience.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re relying on a basic VPN or RDP setup — and how a Managed Service Provider (MSP) like us can help.

The Risk of “Just Getting Connected” — Why a Basic VPN Isn’t Enough

Setting up a quick VPN or remote desktop connection might feel like you’re ticking the box for hybrid working. But if your setup is missing essential security layers, you could be putting your business in harm’s way.

Common risks we see in businesses using DIY or vanilla setups:

• No Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): A stolen password gives an attacker full access to your network. MFA is your first line of defence.
• Unrestricted VPN access: Many businesses give staff access to the entire network via VPN — even systems they don’t need. This increases the attack surface massively.
• Weak or outdated firewalls: If your firewall isn’t properly configured, it’s just a façade. Modern cyberattacks bypass poorly maintained firewalls in seconds.
• Exposed Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP): Leaving RDP open to the internet is one of the fastest ways to get hit by brute force or ransomware attacks.
• No endpoint control: Even if your core network is secure, a compromised home laptop can bring threats in through the back door.

These are not rare problems — we see them in audits and onboarding assessments all the time.

Managed Remote Access Done Right: VPNs, RDS, and Beyond

At Zuri IT, we don’t just help clients work remotely — we help them do it securely. That starts with understanding the core tools:

🔐 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

VPNs allow staff to connect to the company network over encrypted tunnels. They’re a strong first step — but they’re not a standalone solution.

What good VPN management looks like:

• MFA enforced for all users
• Split-tunnelling to reduce unnecessary risk
• Restricted access by user role or location
• Traffic monitoring and real-time alerts

💻 Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

RDS gives users secure access to a centralised desktop environment. It’s perfect for businesses that need to manage applications, files, and updates in one place.

When RDS is ideal:

• Your team handles large files or uses specialist software
• You need consistent access from multiple locations
• Data compliance is a priority and local storage needs to be minimised

🔒 Additional Security Layers

• Single Sign-On (SSO) for easier password management and reduced fatigue
• Conditional Access Policies based on device compliance, location, or time
• Modern firewalls with intrusion prevention and intelligent traffic filtering
• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR) to keep remote devices safe

Why SMEs and Architecture Firms Are High-Risk Targets

If you think your business is “too small” to be targeted, think again.

Cybercriminals are now using automation to scan for vulnerabilities — and small firms without in-house IT teams are often the easiest targets.

We’ve seen it all:

• Ransomware attacks that lock down an entire design firm overnight
• Breaches caused by unsecured remote access for finance staff
• Sensitive files leaked due to misconfigured access rights

With Zuri IT, you get a managed IT service that proactively monitors, protects, and supports your remote workforce — so you’re not left reacting when it’s already too late.

The Zuri Approach: Practical IT for Real-World Teams

We’re not interested in selling fancy tech for the sake of it. We take the time to understand how your business operates, what your users need, and what level of security makes sense.

✅ Straightforward advice — no jargon, no upselling
✅ Fixed-cost IT support — know what you’re paying, no surprises
✅ Proactive security — we don’t wait for things to go wrong
✅ Specialist knowledge in industries like architecture, design, and consulting

Is Your Remote Setup Secure

Ask yourself:

• Are all remote connections protected with MFA?
• Can you monitor who is accessing your network, when and from where?
• Is your firewall actively managed and updated?
• Are staff trained to spot phishing emails and login scams?
• Are you confident that your data is safe — even if a laptop is lost or stolen?

If the answer to any of these is “I’m not sure”, it’s time to have a chat.

Let’s Secure Your Business for the Way You Work Now

Remote and hybrid working aren’t trends — they’re the future of how we work. But they must be built on a secure IT foundation.

Absolutely — here’s the revised ending with a clearer call-to-action and your contact details included:

At Zuri IT, we help businesses of all sizes build remote setups that work — securely, smoothly, and affordably.

💬 Ready to review your remote access setup?
📅 Schedule a meeting via our contact page
📞 Or give us a call on 020 4570 2770 — no obligation, just honest advice.

Let’s make remote work work for you — safely and stress-free.