RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is a Microsoft-developed secure network communication protocol that allows users to perform remote operations on other computers. It allows for secure data transfer between machines that are connected remotely via an encrypted communication channel.
RDP users need more than just their operating system’s RDP client. They also need RDP on the server (the hosting machine, which might be a PC) that they connect to and control.
For businesses, the remote desktop protocol is gaining popularity. But what exactly is it, and how will it benefit you? Here’s how we explain RDP.
What Is a Remote Desktop Protocol and How Does It Work?
Connecting your home laptop to your business PC, for example, allows you to access files, run software, print papers, and so on without having to go into the office. On the other hand, the host device does not have to be a computer. Many corporate use-cases involve a server or virtual server environment.
The software and operating system are powered by the host device and shown on the client device with a remote desktop.
Remote desktop software collects and transfers mouse and keyboard inputs from the client device to the host computer. Additional software may be required for jobs and files that require a lot of graphics to ensure a smooth, responsive performance.
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How Secure Is Windows RDP?
Even the best remote desktop protocol is vulnerable to assaults. Despite having advanced security mechanisms such as network-level authentication (NLA). Nearly all incoming and outbound RDP connection requests go through TCP port 3389. Because of this, cybercriminals can use a man-in-the-middle attack to intercept communication between remote PCs.
Attackers can also manipulate the RDP server by impersonating one of the communicating parties. RDP is vulnerable to brute-force attacks due to the use of similar credentials for remote login.
Securing RDP
Because RDP is valuable and adds value to enterprises, we don’t want to just disable it for security reasons. Your security officer may have a different opinion.
Here are a few things we can do to make RDP as secure as possible:
Using Passwords
While eight characters with a mix of uppercase, lowercase, digits, and symbols used to be the standard password complexity suggestion, that is no longer sufficient.
Passwords should now have a minimum length of 10 characters. Using a combination of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols. The time required to brute force a password exponentially grows as the password’s length increases.
Limit Login Attempts
Another technique to prevent brute force assaults is to limit the number of login attempts before locking out an account. In seconds, brute force assaults can try hundreds of passwords. If an account is locked after three failed attempts, the brute force attack is halted.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
MFA is widely recognized as a reliable means of safeguarding resources, particularly RDP connections. While phishing schemes and brute force assaults have shown to be efficient methods of getting user passwords, attackers will still be unable to access user accounts without the second form of authentication.
Benefits of Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)
There are many benefits of using an RDP account. Here are a few:
- Reduce IT support turnaround times
- Ensure Business Continuity
- Reduce support costs by practically eliminating travel time
- Boost Productivity
RDP is more significant to the new remote work strategy and resource migration to the cloud. This is because it allows employees to access critical apps and systems regardless of where they are or whether the device they’re using is capable of running these applications.
Use Remote Desktop Protocol Performance for Your Business
Working remotely using a remote desktop protocol keeps data safe. In addition, it protects any work with your user’s login credentials. And with cloud backups scheduled automatically, you’ll never have to worry about hardware failure.
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