How can you configure a server for remote access while maintaining security?

Use multi-factor authentication. Restrict access with a firewall. Implement a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Limit user access. Apply strong security measures. Keep the server and software up-to-date dedicated network segment or VLAN Implement IDS/IPS for real-time monitoring security groups and Role-Based Access Control Enable logging, review logs regularly Restrict access to sensitive data security policies Conduct regular security audits Implement regular backups Educate remote users

Use certificates and ssh keys when possible to keep the methods secure. Otherwise a password with MFA is the next best option. Don't just rely on passwords, if you have to maintain a strong password policy.

Testing and Staging Environments: Set up testing and staging environments that mirror your production environment as closely as possible. Test software updates in these environments before applying them to your live systems. Regular Backups: Maintain regular backups of your critical data and configurations. This ensures that if an update causes problems, you can quickly roll back to a working state. Change Management Process: Implement a robust change management process that includes a detailed plan for software updates. This plan should outline who is responsible for the updates, how they will be tested, and how they will be rolled out.

You first need to understand which OS the server is to run on. For windows, ensure you have the right license and if Linux, update to the latest firmware. Users can either SSH or RDP to the server environment depending on which flavour you prefer. If it was me, I would recommend RDP because it's user friendly. You can enable MFA for users accessing the servers as well as configure them using AD to ensure legitimate users have access. Always apply the principle of least privilege for these legit users. Above all, host the server behind a WAF to ensure an extra layer of security is guaranteed.

Limit access to your remote server by considering whitelisting and zero trust principles. The minimum number of people necessary should have access to the remote server and either their home IP address or MAC address should be whitelisted in the system (preferably both would be required though). All other IPs and MAC addresses should be blocked by default from connecting to that server. MFA should already be a requirement for all users in the organization but implement it immediately if that's not the case. (No, seriously. Stop reading this and go enable MFA ASAP.) If you're able to implement an auto-expire for access that would be even better. Then you will be able to easily know who has and needs access, decreasing your attack surface.

Avoid SMS and Call based MFA when possible, it can be easily spoofed and then compromised. MFA fatigue may occur in your organisation if used everywhere, ssh keys and certificates may be the better option for users. Enable MFA number matching if you can.

Yes, use endpoint protection such as crowdstrike. Aggregate your security logs and monitor important events. Monitor for shells, permission changes, priviledge escalation.

Ensure your backups are secured and offline to remain safe from ransomware. This can be done with SED drives and tools like bitlocker.