The coronavirus pandemic transformed everyday life and how we work, prompting companies to swiftly adapt their infrastructure for a remote workforce. As temporary solutions turned long-term, the hybrid work model emerged as a permanent fixture. This shift necessitates IT, HR, and operations teams to reevaluate and recalibrate systems to ensure a secure and efficient hybrid workforce.
Businesses and employees need consistent, secure access to data. This article explores the path forward, focusing on transitioning data to the cloud, leveraging a robust internet foundation, and continuously assessing systems to maintain operational efficiency.
Embracing a Blended Work Model
The pandemic shifted access to company data from secure buildings to diverse external connections, highlighting data security’s importance. With a sudden increase in remote work, companies faced unprecedented challenges. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) were overwhelmed, slowing accessibility and efficiency.
However, cloud-based solutions emerged to control the chaos. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) combines Wide Area Networks (WAN) and network security services into a single cloud-based service model, providing secure access regardless of employee location. Companies with a SASE model were better equipped for remote work during the pandemic.
On-site data centers, once the standard, lack the accessibility and security required for a hybrid workforce. In contrast, cloud-based infrastructure offers high availability and security, making it ideal for businesses.
Converting to the Cloud
Benefits of Cloud-Based Solutions
- Scalability: Adapt to business growth or increased demand seamlessly.
- Key Controls: Cloud providers ensure PCI compliance, ISO standards, and network flexibility, offering a secure environment.
- Focus on Core Business: Specialized providers meet industry-specific data security needs, allowing businesses to address other risks.
Staying Protected in a Hybrid Environment
- VPN with Two-Factor Authentication: Ensures identity protection through dual verification.
- Strong Passwords: Mix upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to prevent unauthorized access.
- Password Manager: Securely stores passwords, eliminating the need for physical copies.
- Unique Passwords: Prevents compromising both work and personal accounts.
- Encryption: Safeguards sensitive data during transmission and storage.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Protects against malicious files and malware.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Centralizes audit logging to detect suspicious activity and determine remediation tactics.
Investing in a Solid Internet Network
Network Accessibility and Dependability
A strong internet foundation is essential for hybrid work. Choosing a provider with a top-tier internet experience ensures seamless connectivity. A geographically sound network shortens the path to the main internet backbone, enhancing speed and reliability. TDS® offers geographically distributed connections for direct, efficient internet access.
Redundancy
Built-in redundancy ensures continuous data access through core points and alternate networks, reducing slow or interrupted service during unplanned outages.
Fiber Optic Internet Benefits
Faster, Reliable Service
Fiber-optic internet offers faster, more reliable service with higher bandwidth and lower latency than copper facilities. It supports symmetrical upload and download speeds, essential for hybrid work.
Enhanced Security
Fiber cables, reinforced with materials like Kevlar, handle more tension and are less susceptible to interference, making them ideal for secure data transmission.
Resilience to Weather
Fiber networks withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring reliability regardless of location.
Staying Nimble
Regular system assessment is crucial for meeting company and employee needs. Upgrading internet services can prevent slowdowns and support new capabilities, such as video conferencing and cloud storage. Signs it’s time to upgrade include employee complaints about network slowness and expanding business capabilities.
Instant Messaging
Instant messaging allows employees to communicate seamlessly from various devices, enhancing collaboration and efficiency.
Meet-Me Conferencing
Host online conferences with up to 125 participants, enabling effective team communication anytime, anywhere.
Softphone
Turn PCs, laptops, or tablets into collaboration tools, facilitating multitasking regardless of location.
Call Push and Pull
Transfer active calls between devices without disrupting conversations, ensuring uninterrupted communication.
Video Calling
Conduct face-to-face meetings using device cameras, fostering better team interaction.
Seamless Communication Connection
VoIP and managedIP Hosted solutions combine internet, phone, and mobile applications for better call handling, reliability, and local support.
Technology That Powers Your Business
Traditional solutions may not meet your business needs. TDS offers personalized solutions with a dedicated manager for account management, helping assess network and security foundations.
Multiple Locations Support
MetroEthernet provides a private LAN connection across multiple locations, allowing businesses to manage their networks efficiently.
Dedicated Connections
Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) provides consistent, reliable bandwidth solely for your business, supporting multiple connections to Tier 1 IP transit providers.
A Dependable Network
TDS’s advanced fiber network ensures faster speeds and more bandwidth, even during peak use. If fiber isn’t available, TDS can help bring the service to your business.
Finding the Right Technology Partner
Optimizing technology infrastructure for longevity is crucial. TDS Business evaluates unique customer situations to create tailored approaches, ensuring seamless connectivity and competitive advantage.
Conclusion
A hybrid work model requires a robust technological foundation. By transitioning to the cloud, investing in a strong internet network, and continuously assessing systems, businesses can support a long-term hybrid workforce effectively.
FAQs
How can I ensure data security for remote workers?
Implement VPNs with two-factor authentication, use strong and unique passwords, and employ encryption for sensitive data.
What are the benefits of fiber-optic internet?
Fiber-optic internet offers faster speeds, higher bandwidth, enhanced security, and resilience to weather conditions.
How do I know when to upgrade my internet service?
Upgrade when employees report network slowness, new capabilities require more bandwidth, or advanced services like video conferencing are needed.
What is SASE, and why is it important?
SASE combines WAN and network security services into a cloud-based model, providing secure access for remote employees.
Why is a dedicated internet connection beneficial?
Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) offers consistent bandwidth solely for your business, ensuring reliable and fast internet connectivity.
How can TDS help my business with technology needs?
TDS provides personalized solutions, dedicated account managers, and advanced fiber networks to meet unique business requirements.
