top of page
Search

11 Actionable Cybersecurity Tips for SLED IT Leaders Who Want to Secure Remote Workforces

Updated: Mar 20


11 Actionable Cybersecurity Tips for SLED IT Leaders Who Want to Secure Remote Workforces

As hybrid and remote work continue to reshape operations in schools, local governments, and public agencies, the need for cybersecurity for remote workforces has never been greater. IT leaders in the public sector must take proactive steps to protect sensitive data, minimize downtime, secure network access, and defend against evolving cyber threats. Below we lay out 11 actionable cybersecurity tips for remote workforces that SLED IT leaders can take to minimize risk.


Table of Contents



 

Ready to improve your network infrastructure? Reach out and let's get started.


 


11 Actionable Cybersecurity Tips for SLED IT Leaders Who Want to Secure Remote Workforces


1. Require the Use of Corporate-Managed Devices

Personal devices create security risks. Provide centrally managed work devices to enforce policies, monitor software, and protect sensitive data.


2. Secure Remote Access with MFA & Zero Trust

Remote access tools are a prime target for cyberattacks. Limit third-party remote tools, enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and implement Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA) to verify users before granting access.


3. Automate Security Updates & Patching

Unpatched systems are an open invitation for cyber threats. Enable automatic OS and software updates to ensure devices stay protected from known vulnerabilities.


4. Block Untrusted Network Traffic

Home and public Wi-Fi expose corporate devices to risks. Use centrally managed firewalls, enforce VPN usage, and limit outbound traffic to essential services for secure remote work.


5. Monitor & Restrict Software Usage

Shadow IT introduces vulnerabilities. Regularly audit installed applications, block unauthorized software, and implement allowlisting to ensure only approved programs are used.


6. Require Full-Disk Encryption for All Devices

Lost or stolen laptops without encryption can lead to data breaches. Enforce full-disk encryption to protect data from unauthorized access.


7. Control Cloud & External Storage Access

Unapproved cloud storage can lead to data leaks. Block unauthorized file-sharing platforms and restrict data transfers to personal cloud accounts to prevent sensitive data exposure.


8. Deploy Advanced Endpoint Monitoring (EDR)

Remote endpoints are harder to monitor. Use Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions to track user behavior, detect anomalies, and automate security alerts.


9. Use Just-in-Time Admin Privileges

Full-time local admin access increases security risks. Implement Privileged Access Management (PAM) to provide temporary admin rights only when necessary.


10. Deploy Real-Time Threat Monitoring

Cyberattacks often show warning signs before escalating. Utilize behavior-based monitoring and automated alerts to detect and respond to suspicious activity early.


11. Require Centralized Antivirus & EDR Protection

Basic antivirus isn’t enough. Deploy a centrally managed antivirus solution combined with EDR and 24/7 monitoring to ensure proactive threat detection.


Final Thoughts: Take a Proactive Approach to Remote Security


Securing remote workforces in K-12 schools, municipalities, and public sector agencies requires proactive measures. By implementing these cybersecurity tips for remote workforces, blocking unauthorized software, and leveraging advanced security solutions, SLED organizations can strengthen their IT defenses and reduce cyber risks.


Start Securing Your Remote Workforce Today!


Looking to improve your organization’s cybersecurity strategy? Mitigate risk by implementing these cybersecurity tips for remote workforces and contact us below:





TLDR Quick Reference Table: Remote Workforce Cybersecurity Best Practices

Security Measure

Implementation

Require corporate-managed devices

Provide and centrally manage work devices with security policies enforced.

Restrict remote access tools

Limit third-party remote tools, enforce MFA, and use ZTNA for secure access.

Automate OS & security updates

Enable automatic updates for Windows and essential security software.

Block untrusted network traffic

Use centrally managed firewalls and VPNs to encrypt and protect remote connections.

Monitor & restrict software usage

Conduct regular software audits, block unapproved apps, and enforce allowlisting.

Require full-disk encryption

Use encryption tools to protect lost or stolen devices.

Control cloud & external storage access

Block non-approved cloud storage and prevent unauthorized data transfers.

Deploy Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR)

Use EDR to track behavior, detect anomalies, and automate threat response.

Use just-in-time admin privileges

Implement PAM solutions to grant admin rights only when necessary.

Deploy real-time threat monitoring

Utilize behavior-based monitoring and automated alerts for suspicious activity.

Require centralized antivirus & EDR

Deploy antivirus and EDR with 24/7 security monitoring for proactive defense.


 

Ready to improve your network infrastructure? Reach out and let's get started.


 

Comments

  • How can you protect your data in the cloud?
    There are many ways to ensure your data is safe and protected in the cloud. Here are five ways to protect your data: Always implement strong access controls Encrypt data at both rest and in transit Leverage a big-name cloud security platform (we suggest Palo Alto) to monitor for suspicious activity Classify your data based on sensitivity and priority Keep security configurations up-to-date and regularly review activity
  • VoIP refers to ... ?
    VoIP refers to Voice over Internet Protocol. Through VoIP technology a municipality or campus can empower users to make and receive phone calls over the internet instead of traditional phone line. VoIP can help cut costs and improve productivity via unified communications.
  • What is a benefit of using cloud computing in networking?
    Cloud computing in networking offers more than one benefit. Benefits of cloud computing in networking include scalability, flexibility, cost-efficiency, speed, and autonomy.
  • How to design an enterprise network
    To design an enterprise network, an enterprise network solutions company like R&D Data Products will: Take time to identify the campus or company's requirements Analyze and assess an organization's current network infrastructure Determine the network topology, or the physical and logical way in which enterprise network nodes connect and data flows choose Plan IP addressing Decide on the most appropriate hardware and software for a campus or organization's needs Implement robust security measures to prevent hacks Ensure network scalability and data redundancy for future growth
  • What is an enterprise network?
    An enterprise network is an organization's IT network infrastructure. An enterprise network connects users, devices, and applications, enabling communication across both cloud and physical, local data center systems. Unlike the internet, with an enterprise network an IT team, Network Operator, or equivalent can ensure security and network reliability by controlling which users and devices have network authorization. Enterprise networks can include both physical and virtual components: LANs: Connect local devices WANs: Link LANs to the cloud Routers, switches, and servers: Facilitate data transfers Firewalls: Monitor and control traffic VPNs: Encrypt network data TLS encryption: Secures data in transit
  • What is the difference between routers and switches?
    The difference between routers and switches is that routers connect networks together, while switches are needed to connect the devices within a network.
  • What Is Zero Trust (ZTN) Cybersecurity?
    Unlike traditional security models that assume trust within a network, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “Never Trust, Always Verify.” Every access request is authenticated, authorized, and continuously monitored. Key Principles of Zero Trust are: Identity & Access Management (IAM) – Verify users before granting access. Least Privilege Access – Minimize user permissions to reduce risks. Micro-Segmentation – Isolate network segments to limit lateral movement. Continuous Monitoring & Threat Detection – Ensure real-time security enforcement.
  • How Ransomware Works
    Ransomware is malware that encrypts critical files and demands payment for decryption. Attacks often originate from: Phishing emails and malicious links Compromised user credentials Unpatched software vulnerabilities Once a system is infected, attackers demand payment, threatening to delete or leak sensitive data if the ransom isn’t paid.
  • How VoIP Reduces Communication Costs
    Switching to VoIP eliminates long-distance charges, costly hardware, and excessive maintenance fees associated with traditional phone systems. Key Cost Benefits: Lower Monthly Service Fees – Reduce telephony costs by up to 50% compared to traditional landlines. No Costly Hardware Upgrades – Use existing internet connections instead of investing in expensive PBX systems. Free Internal Calls – Staff can communicate between locations without incurring extra charges. Flexible Subscription Plans – Pay only for the features and users you need.
  • What are VoIP security best practices?
    Securing your VoIP system is more than setting up firewalls. SLED organizations should consider a layered approach: Top Security Practices: Encrypt VoIP Traffic – Protect calls with end-to-end encryption (e.g., SRTP/TLS). Secure SIP Gateways & Session Border Controllers – Prevent unauthorized access and mitigate DDoS attacks. Implement Network Segmentation – Isolate VoIP traffic from general internet traffic. Strong Authentication & Access Controls – Require strong passwords and restrict access to VoIP systems. Monitor & Audit Call Logs – Detect suspicious usage or fraud.
  • Does VoIP help with school safety and government safety?
    In critical situations like active threats, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, VoIP systems can play a key role in keeping people connected, informed, and safe. VoIP Emergency Features for SLED: E911 Location Services – Accurately transmit caller location to emergency services. Intercom & Paging Integration – Make site-wide or zone-specific announcements. Lockdown Alerts – Send automated messages through multiple channels. Voicemail-to-Email – Capture critical information even when lines are busy.

© 2023 by R & D Data Products. All rights reserved.

bottom of page