Building a Secure Remote Workforce Using Synology and Zero Trust
How to Build a Safe Remote Workforce Without VPNs
Remote work is now a normal part of doing business, but traditional VPN-based access models are becoming more and more of a security risk. VPNs were never meant to handle flat network access, stolen credentials, and unmanaged devices, which make for big attack surfaces. Businesses need to switch to a Zero Trust security model that always checks users, devices, and access requests in order to support a secure remote workforce.
A Zero Trust approach doesn’t trust anyone by default, whether they are inside or outside the corporate network. Every request for access is checked, approved, and recorded. Zero Trust, along with centralized storage, identity-aware access, and modern monitoring tools, makes remote work safe without slowing down productivity.
Why VPN-Only Remote Access Doesn’t Work
VPNs were made to let remote users access internal networks, not to keep modern cloud-connected workflows safe. Once they are connected, users usually have access to a lot of internal systems, even if they only need one application or file share. This gives attackers more chances to move sideways and makes the damage from stolen credentials worse.
VPNs also don’t take into account the health of the device, how the user behaves, or the risk in the situation. Ransomware, data theft, or damage to the system can happen if a laptop is hacked or a password is stolen. Companies need a security model that is more detailed and based on identity, with access limited by role, device, and level of risk.
Zero Trust Rules for Teams That Work Remotely
Instead of protecting the perimeter, Zero Trust security focuses on constant verification. Strong identity verification, least-privilege access, device validation, and constant monitoring are some of the most important principles. Remote users can only access certain resources that they are allowed to use, and that access can be taken away at any time if the risk changes.
For teams that work together from different places, this method greatly lowers the attack surface. Even if attackers get hold of credentials, they can’t move freely between systems. Every request for access is logged, checked, and looked at in real time.
Synology as a Zero Trust Layer for Storage and Access
Synology is a key part of Zero Trust architectures because it is more than just a file server; it is also a secure data control plane. Synology NAS systems support granular permissions, multi-factor authentication, adaptive access policies, and encrypted data storage. All of these features are in line with the Zero Trust model.
Organizations can use secure gateways to publish only certain services, like file access, collaboration tools, or backup consoles, instead of exposing whole networks through VPNs. Synology lets administrators tightly control who can access what, from where, and under what conditions. This is possible because it supports identity-based access controls, integration with directory services, and detailed audit logging.
Safe remote collaboration without exposing the network
You don’t need full network access to work together from afar. Synology Drive lets teams safely access files through authenticated portals, mobile apps, or web-based interfaces. You can set permissions for folders or files, which makes sure that users only see the data that is relevant to their job.
Hybrid cloud features let cold data stay offsite while files that are accessed often stay cached locally. This speeds things up without increasing risk. Built-in versioning, snapshots that can’t be changed, and protection against ransomware make sure that core data stays safe and can be recovered even if a remote device is hacked.
Identity, Monitoring, and Ongoing Verification
Zero Trust depends on being able to see and check things all the time. Synology platforms can log detailed activity, send alerts, and work with centralized monitoring tools. Administrators can see how all remote users log in, access files, and make changes to the system.
Adaptive multi-factor authentication makes access more secure by changing the requirements for authentication based on where you are, what device you’re using, and how you’re acting. This method strikes a balance between user experience and strong security controls, making things easier while still keeping people safe.
Keeping a business running with a distributed workforce
A remote workforce that is safe must also be strong. Synology Active Backup and snapshot replication keep endpoints, virtual machines, and SaaS platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace safe. If a remote device fails or gets a virus, data can be restored quickly without stopping work.
Zero Trust isn’t just about stopping breaches; it’s also about making sure that when they do happen, the damage is as small as possible. Centralized backups, unchangeable snapshots, and quick recovery make sure that business goes on even when there are security problems.
About the Epis Technology
Using Synology platforms, Epis Technology helps businesses create and set up remote work environments that are ready for Zero Trust. Epis Technology is an expert in Synology consulting, setting up secure NAS systems, backing up Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace, and building storage systems that can grow. Epis Technology helps businesses go beyond VPNs and build secure, resilient remote workforces that support growth without increasing risk by aligning identity controls, data protection, and remote access policies.