The Center for Internet Security (CIS) Controls continue to emphasize robust access management, and Control 6.4 tackles a critical aspect: securing remote network access with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

This safeguard is simple but powerful: require MFA for all remote network access. Whether employees are logging in from home, on the road, or from an external location, MFA ensures an additional layer of security to verify their identity.

Here’s what this means in practice:

• Remote Access Defined: Any connection that allows users to access your network outside the physical office environment—VPNs, virtual desktops, or remote admin tools.
• Why MFA?: Passwords alone are not enough. MFA requires something the user knows (password) and something they have (like an authenticator app or hardware token), making it significantly harder for attackers to gain access.
• How to Implement: If you use platforms like Microsoft Azure AD, Okta, Duo Security, or similar services, adding MFA for remote access can often be configured with existing tools.

Why is this crucial? Remote access expands your attack surface, and without proper controls, it could be exploited by cybercriminals. MFA is one of the easiest and most effective ways to mitigate this risk and protect your network.

To recap, Control 6.4 ensures that any remote connection to your network is safeguarded by MFA, offering an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access and helping you maintain a strong security posture.