Remote Desktop Protocol
Being a widely used protocol, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) expands the possibilities for the remote workforce. Yet, it has some severe security limitations that must be addressed in today's ever-evolving cyber landscape. With NordLayer's cutting-edge security model, these issues can be swiftly resolved in no time or effort. Bring some peace of mind to your remote workforce. Embrace a safer and more productive environment now.
OVERVIEW
What is Remote Desktop Protocol?
RDP is a secure approach that enables the control of one device from another. It is commonly employed by IT administrators. In this method, a user device establishes a connection with a host device located at a different site, granting employees the ability to perform operations on the host device remotely via the internet.
PROCESS
How does RDP work?
The idea is pretty simple: it allows users to remotely control their desktop computer over the Internet. The user's mouse movements and keystrokes are transmitted to their desktop computer via a dedicated network channel using TCP/IP, ensuring secure communication. This channel operates on network port 3389. The user's desktop is then displayed on the computer they connect to, providing a seamless experience.
RDP is commonly used for various scenarios, such as accessing files, running applications, and printing documents on a remote PC without physically being present. It is not limited to personal computers but is also utilized in server or virtual server environments for business purposes.
To use RDP, the host device (the machine being controlled) needs to be turned on and remain powered on. Sleep settings may need adjustment to prevent the host computer from turning off. RDP is built into Windows machines and can be enabled by going to Settings > System > Remote Desktop. By default, the options to keep the PC awake for connections and make it discoverable on private networks are enabled.
Occasional slight delays may occur due to the encryption and transmission of keyboard and mouse inputs, as well as the display data. However, RDP provides a practical and secure solution for remote access to desktop computers, enhancing productivity and convenience.
USE CASES
RDP in action: common scenarios for simplifying your workflow
Protect remote PC work
Access your work computer securely from anywhere with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), enabling seamless remote work while maintaining data security and privacy.
Secure access to virtual desktops
Ensure secure access to Virtual Desktops as a Service (DaaS), Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI), or hosted environments, leveraging RDP's encryption and authentication capabilities for a protected and reliable remote desktop experience.
Simplify access to integrated 3rd parties
Streamline your workflow by seamlessly accessing integrated third-party platforms using RDP, including Google SSO, Azure AD, Okta, OneLogin, and Jumpcloud, simplifying authentication processes and enhancing productivity.
VULNERABILITY
How secure is RDP?
RDP is not a security setup itself and therefore requires additional protective measures to keep workstations & servers secure. And that’s where NordLayer steps in, offering premium features that enhance safety while utilizing RDP. It helps to implement strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and network encryption that are crucial to fortify the RDP connection and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
DRAWBACKS & REMEDIES
NordLayer’s solutions for your RDP issues
Ensure secure and authenticated access to your network with NordLayer's robust solutions for Remote Desktop Protocol challenges.
SSO, 2FA & Biometrics
Many networks face a significant vulnerability when it comes to identity authentication. By leveraging tools such as Single Sign-On, Biometrics, and Two-Factor Authentication, NordLayer ensures that only verified users and devices can access the network & mitigates the risks associated with weak identity authentication in RDP environments.
Identity & Access Management
Poorly secured endpoints in networks create a vulnerability at the point of access, allowing attackers to breach defenses and compromise data integrity. To address this security concern, implementing an Identity and Access Management (IAM) solution effectively controls and restricts access to applications and data, mitigating the risks associated with unauthorized entry and potential data breaches.
Fixed IP
The visibility of Remote Desktop Protocol to the entire internet raises security concerns. Still, one effective solution is to utilize a fixed IP address exclusively assigned to you and your company through a VPN, enabling stricter control over the IP addresses and enhancing security measures.
IP masking
The exposure of your access when using RDP through public Wi-Fi can cause security trouble. Yet, IP masking helps replace your real IP address with a new online identity, ensuring enhanced internet privacy, preventing easy physical location detection, and enabling access to geo-blocked services.
OUR FEATURE
Smart Remote Access for RDP
Discover the potential of NordLayer's Smart Remote Access (SRA) service, forging secure connections between devices and central network resources and effortlessly establishing VPN-encrypted point-to-point connections for Remote Desktop Access while alleviating any security issues.
IMPLEMENTATION
How to enable RDP?
To set up Remote Desktop Protocol, follow these simple steps:
- Open the Start menu and search for "Remote Desktop settings.”
- Click on "System Properties" or "Remote settings" to access the Remote tab.
- In the Remote tab, check the box that says "Allow remote connections to this computer."
- Optionally, click on "Select Users" to specify which users can access your computer remotely.
- Click "OK" to save the changes.
additional info
Frequently asked questions
RDP, SSH, and VNC are remote access protocols. RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is used on Windows for graphical remote access. VNC (Virtual Network Computing) works on Linux, macOS, and Windows, allowing GUI-based remote access. SSH (Secure Shell) provides secure terminal-based access across various operating systems. RDP and VNC are GUI-based, while SSH is terminal-based.
To set up a secure RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) connection, ensure strong encryption and secure authentication, use complex passwords, and consider multi-factor authentication. Keep your RDP software updated. For enhanced security, consider using NordLayer's Smart Remote Access solution, which offers advanced encryption and simplifies the setup process, providing additional security layers for your remote access activities.
By default, RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is not considered secure. It lacks some essential security measures, making it vulnerable to potential risks. RDP does not provide strong encryption or secure authentication out of the box, which leaves it susceptible to eavesdropping and unauthorized access. The default RDP configuration may also allow for brute-force attacks against user credentials. It is crucial to implement additional security measures, such as enabling Network Level Authentication (NLA), using complex and unique passwords, and ensuring that the RDP server and client software are up to date with the latest security patches. Considering alternative secure remote access solutions, like NordLayer's Smart Remote Access, is advisable for a higher level of security.