When your staff work from different locations—whether from home, client sites, or various offices across the UK—it's important to have a clear network policy that governs how they access your company systems and data. A network policy sets out rules and guidelines to ensure everyone connects securely and consistently, reducing risks such as unauthorised access, data breaches, or accidental data loss.
Without a network policy tailored for remote or distributed working, your business faces several risks. These include potential downtime if connections are unreliable or insecure, increased vulnerability to cyber attacks, and challenges meeting UK data protection requirements like the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR. A well-defined policy helps maintain staff productivity by providing clear instructions and support, while protecting customer trust by safeguarding sensitive information.
Typical Scenario for a UK SME
Consider a UK SME with around 50 employees, many of whom work remotely from different postcodes. Without a network policy, staff might use personal Wi-Fi networks without VPNs, share passwords, or access company data on unsecured devices. This can lead to malware infections or data leaks. A good IT partner would assess the current setup, implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), enforce the use of secure VPN connections, and provide training on safe practices. They would also ensure that access rights are appropriate and regularly reviewed, and that all remote connections are logged and monitored for unusual activity.
Practical Checklist for Your Business
- Ask your IT provider: How do you secure remote connections? Do you enforce VPN and MFA for all remote users?
- Review access controls: Are staff granted only the minimum necessary access to systems and data?
- Check device management: Are remote devices encrypted and regularly updated with security patches?
- Confirm backup locations: Are backups stored securely and tested for recovery, including data accessed remotely?
- Examine logging and monitoring: Are remote access events logged and reviewed to detect suspicious activity?
- Update policies and training: Is there a clear, written network policy communicated to all staff, with regular refresher training?
Having a network policy that covers staff working from different postcodes is not just about technology—it's about protecting your business operations, complying with UK data protection standards, and maintaining customer confidence. Speak with a trusted managed IT provider or IT advisor who understands your sector and can help develop or review your network policies to fit your specific working arrangements.