Technology Solutions for Working from Home

In today’s flexible working environment, many staff members require either occasional or full-time access to work resources from home. There are several technology solutions available to meet this need, depending on the nature of the work and the level of security required.

Here are some popular and recommended options:

1. Issuing a Work Laptop

Many businesses choose to issue a company laptop to employees who work remotely.
This is often the most secure method because the device can be fully managed under the company’s IT security policies. Staff access their usual corporate systems using installed desktop apps such as Microsoft Outlook, and data can be accessed via cloud platforms or by connecting to office networks using a secure VPN.
This ensures that company information remains protected and the work environment feels similar to the office.

2. Using a Virtual Desktop

Another approach is to provide staff with access to a virtual desktop, where employees use their home PC to connect to a remote “business PC.”
Traditionally, this involves connecting to a terminal server setup — a complex and costly solution requiring specialized on-site hardware and software.
However, Microsoft now offers Cloud PC, a modern alternative where everything is hosted securely in the cloud without needing physical servers. Cloud PCs cost around $70 per month per user and offer a significant security advantage: all company data remains controlled within the virtual environment, and restrictions can prevent unauthorized downloads.

3. Web Browser-Based Access

If your company’s resources are primarily cloud-based (such as email, documents, client systems, and web portals), staff can access everything they need through a web browser.
For greater security, we recommend setting up a separate Microsoft Edge profile dedicated to work use, with shortcuts to all important systems.
This method is simple and cost-effective and leaves very little data stored on the home computer.
However, it is not as secure as using a company-managed device or a virtual desktop, particularly if sensitive data is involved.

4. Remote Access to the Office PC

For staff who rely on specialized software — like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs or high-end graphic design tools — remote access to their existing office PC is often the best solution.
Some employees have tried using free versions of TeamViewer; however, free versions are not licensed for business use, and heavy usage can lead to access being blocked.

A more reliable, business-friendly option we recommend is RemotePC.
RemotePC is an affordable solution that allows each staff member to securely access their own office computer from home, without risking access to other systems or PCs. It’s an ideal choice for businesses looking for simple, cost-effective remote access without the need to invest heavily in new hardware or software.

Choosing the Right Solution

The best solution depends on the type of work your staff perform, the complexity of the software they use, and the level of security required.
In many cases, a combination of these methods may be used across different staff roles.

If you need assistance choosing and setting up the right solution for your business, we can help assess your needs and implement a secure and cost-effective remote work strategy.