The best way for engineers to remotely access servers, databases, and design programs is through a secure VPN or managed remote desktop solution not an open RDP port, which is one of the most common and dangerous shortcuts firms use. Alexaur has seen firms receive hundreds of hacking attempts per day from exposed RDP ports before switching to a properly secured remote access setup.
Here's how to give your team efficient remote access without leaving your project files exposed:
Why Open RDP Ports Are a Major Security Risk
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a common way to remote into a server and a common way firms accidentally leave the door wide open to attackers. When an RDP port is exposed directly to the internet without proper protection, it becomes an easy target. Automated bots scan the internet constantly, looking for exactly this kind of exposure.
One Houston engineering firm learned this the hard way. They were using an open RDP port so employees could remote into the server for project files while working remotely. Their server was receiving hundreds of hacking attempts per day from around the world targeting that exposed port long before anyone realized it was happening.
Secure Alternatives VPN, RDS, and Managed Remote Access
Instead of an open RDP port, engineering firms should use one of these approaches:
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Creates an encrypted tunnel between the remote user and the office network, so the server itself is never directly exposed to the internet.
- Remote Desktop Services (RDS) behind a secure gateway: Allows multiple users to remote in through a properly secured, managed entry point rather than a raw open port.
- Managed remote access solutions: IT-managed platforms that combine authentication, monitoring, and access control specifically built for secure remote work.
Alexaur resolved the firm's exposure by installing a proper firewall, locking down the server, and setting up a secure remote access solution, bringing attack attempts down from hundreds per day to zero.
Keeping Large CAD/BIM Files Fast Over a Remote Connection
Secure access is only half the equation. It also needs to be usable. AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM files are large, and a poorly configured remote connection can turn a five-minute task into a thirty-minute wait. Firms should look at:
- Bandwidth requirements for the specific software being used
- Latency between the remote user and the server location
- File-sync strategies for handling large files without duplicating work or losing changes
Setting Up Access Without Slowing Down Your Team
Security and usability aren't opposites but they do need to be balanced intentionally. The goal is a setup where engineers can log in, open their files, and work without friction, while the firm's data stays protected behind proper authentication and monitoring. This usually means working with an IT provider who understands both the security side and the performance demands of design software, not just one or the other.
What to Ask Your IT Provider About Remote Access Security
Before trusting any remote access setup, ask:
- Is our server directly exposed to the internet on any port, and why?
- What authentication is required for remote users (multi-factor authentication, VPN credentials, etc.)?
- How would we know if someone was trying to break in?
- What's our plan if a remote access point is compromised?
If your provider can't answer these clearly, that's a red flag.
Why Houston Firms Choose Alexaur
- Dell & Lenovo Partner
- Managed Protection Security Suite Associate Accreditation
- MSP Pro
- Keeper Sales Professional
- Network+ Certified
- SonicWall Partner & Certifications
- 100% local Houston team, serving firms since 2001
- 98% of support tickets resolved on the first call
- Tech's are onsite at your office 2-4x per month to ensure the team's efficiency, continuity and up-time
Not sure how exposed your current remote access setup is? Click here to schedule a 15-minute call with Alexaur for a straightforward security review.
