What is remote working?
Working outside the office using online systems and internet-based technologies.
How have online systems changed the way we work?
- Remote working is easier
- Employees rarely need to go into the office
What is a VPN?
A private network that runs across the internet, allowing employees to securely connect to a business LAN from home.
Why do businesses use a VPN?
- To prevent data interception
- To protect sensitive financial/business data
How does a VPN improve security?
- Data is encrypted
- If intercepted, hackers see encoded data
What is a disadvantage of VPNs?
- Hard to configure and deploy
- Requires specialist networking/security staff
What is Remote Desktop Technology?
Tools and software that allow you to access and control a computer from another location over the internet.
What can Remote Desktop allow access to?
- Files and folders stored locally
- Business LAN (printers, software, network drives)
Give an example of Remote Desktop software.
Microsoft Remote Desktop
What are disadvantages of Remote Desktop?
- Not suitable for graphically intensive tasks
- Can lag due to high data transfer
Cannot be used if home or office network fails
- Can lag due to high data transfer
Why is security important when choosing an online system?
Because large amounts of data are transferred and may be intercepted or hacked.
What security measures protect online systems?
- Encryption (SSL)
- HTTPS
What cost factors must be considered?
- Subscription costs
- Internet access costs
- Upgrading bandwidth/latency
What usability factors should be considered?
- Easy for non-IT users
- Accessible website (phone & desktop)
- Disability access
- Online documentation
What features should a business check for?
- Simultaneous collaboration
- Auto-sync documents
- Required business functionality
- Strong security features
Why is connectivity important for online systems?
- Must handle large data transfers
- Requires fast, reliable internet
- Business cannot operate if connection fails
