Managed IT services play a crucial role in helping UK small businesses and SMEs create and maintain secure remote working environments. Rather than leaving remote access and security to chance, a managed IT provider designs, implements, and monitors systems that allow employees to work safely from home or other locations without exposing the business to unnecessary risks.
Why secure remote working matters for UK SMEs
Allowing staff to work remotely can boost productivity and flexibility, but it also introduces specific risks. Without proper controls, remote setups can lead to data breaches, ransomware infections, or loss of sensitive customer information. This not only disrupts operations and causes downtime but can also damage customer trust and lead to compliance issues under UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.
For example, consider a UK-based marketing agency with 50 employees suddenly shifting to remote work. Without secure connections or device management, staff might use personal devices or unsecured Wi-Fi, increasing the risk of cyberattacks. A managed IT service provider would ensure that all remote access is protected with multi-factor authentication (MFA), VPNs, and endpoint security, reducing the chance of unauthorised access or data leaks.
How a managed IT partner supports secure remote working
A good managed IT provider will assess your current setup and identify vulnerabilities in your remote access methods. They will implement secure VPNs or cloud-based virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), enforce strong password policies, and configure firewalls to monitor and block suspicious activity. They also manage regular software updates and patches to close security gaps.
Additionally, they can set up centralised device management to ensure that laptops and mobile devices used remotely comply with company security standards. This includes encryption, antivirus software, and the ability to remotely wipe data if a device is lost or stolen. Backup solutions are also critical, ensuring that data created or modified remotely is safely stored and recoverable.
Practical checklist for UK SMEs
- Ask your IT provider how they secure remote access: Do they use VPNs, MFA, and endpoint protection?
- Check if your provider offers device management and encryption for remote devices.
- Confirm that regular security updates and patches are applied to all systems used remotely.
- Review your backup strategy: Are remote workers' data backed up securely and regularly?
- Ensure your IT provider monitors remote access logs and can respond quickly to unusual activity.
- Verify compliance with UK data protection standards, including secure handling of personal data outside the office.
- Test your remote working setup periodically to identify and fix any security gaps.
By focusing on these areas, you can reduce downtime, protect sensitive information, and maintain customer confidence while supporting flexible working.
If you're considering or already have remote working in place, it's sensible to discuss your setup with a trusted managed IT service provider. They can tailor security measures to your business size and sector, helping you stay secure and compliant without unnecessary complexity.