Cybersecurity for SFTP, SSH, and RDP connections

Remote connections have become essential tools for system administration and data exchange. Technologies such as SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), SSH (Secure Shell), and RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) are fundamental pillars for ensuring secure communications. However, their misconfiguration or improper use can expose organizations to significant risks.

In this article, we explore the key aspects of securing SFTP, SSH, and RDP connections, delving into how Cosmikal’s Endurance decisively enhances their security

SFTP: Secure File Transfers

SFTP is a secure version of the FTP protocol that uses SSH to encrypt data transfers. While it provides a robust layer of protection, its security depends on several key factors:

1. Strong Authentication: Using public keys instead of passwords minimizes the risk of unauthorized access. Keys should be stored on secure devices and protected with passphrases.
2. User Restrictions: Limit access to authorized users only and define granular permissions.
3. Updated Encryption: Ensure the implemented encryption algorithms are robust, such as AES-256.
4. Continuous Monitoring and Auditing: Monitor access and log events to detect and respond to suspicious activities.

Cosmikal’s Endurance takes SFTP security to the next level through centralized credential management, addressing the inherent issues in key management and distribution while protecting them throughout their lifecycle. The keys, encrypted at multiple levels within the Vault, are also safeguarded during transit and execution (as an enclave) since the SFTP connection is established directly from Endurance and never from the user’s endpoint. From the user’s endpoint, only Endurance’s shielded desktop is visible.

Access control, meaning who accesses what, is also managed by Endurance, ensuring that not only the keys but the access itself is protected.

In addition, Endurance audits each connection in real-time, providing a detailed log of activities to ensure regulatory compliance and traceability.

SSH: The Secure Gateway to the System

SSH is widely used to securely access remote servers. While it provides a high level of security, its effectiveness depends on proper implementation:

1. Disabling Password Access: As with SFTP, public keys are more secure and significantly reduce the risk of brute force attacks.
2. IP Filtering: Configure firewalls to accept connections only from trusted IP addresses, minimizing exposure.
3. Second authentication factor (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to authenticate users.
4. Logs and Audits: Log all SSH connections and analyze potential attack patterns for anomalies.

With Endurance, just like with SFTP, SSH connections are protected by dynamic access controls and a shielded environment that encapsulates credentials and operations in real-time. To access this secured environment, Endurance has its own 2FA system, adding an extra layer of security even before establishing the connection to remote servers.

Additionally, the solution logs every command executed in an SSH session, providing a complete audit and ensuring the immutability of the logs. This not only prevents unauthorized access but also strengthens incident response capabilities.

RDP: Securing Remote Desktop

RDP is a critical tool for remote administration, but also a frequent target of cyberattacks. Since the rise of remote work, brute-force attacks on RDP have grown exponentially. Some best practices to ensure its security include:

1. Access Restrictions: Configure user groups with limited access and monitor their activities.
2. Disable Default Ports: Changing the default port (3389) reduces the risk of being detected by automated attackers.
3. VPN and ZTNA: Use virtual private networks or zero-trust architectures to encapsulate RDP traffic

Endurance optimizes and shields RDP connections in the same way, as the RDP connection is established from Endurance’s own shielded desktop. Combined with proper network segmentation and protection, this creates a defense-in-depth strategy and allows it to be integrated with other best practices.

The competitive advantage of Endurance

Unlike other solutions on the market, Endurance combines advanced technologies such as the Encrypted Vault, centralized access management, and auditing with a shielded remote desktop that takes the combination to the next level:

• Comprehensive Protection: All remote accesses are made from a protected and shielded environment, not from the endpoints.
• Reduced Attack Surface: Thanks to connection encapsulation and dynamic access control.
• Full Control: Real-time monitoring and auditing.
• Regulatory Compliance: Endurance helps companies comply with regulations such as NIS2 and GDPR.

Shield your SFTP, SSH, and RDP connections with Cosmikal

SFTP, SSH, and RDP connections are essential for modern operations, but they also pose a risk if not properly managed. Implementing good security practices, combined with regular audits and advanced technological solutions like Cosmikal’s Endurance, is key to maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of corporate systems and data.

With Endurance, organizations not only protect their infrastructure but also ensure operational continuity and strengthen the trust of their clients and partners.

This level of protection is not just an investment in cybersecurity, but in the future of the company.