How do I connect to my office network from home?

Connecting to office network from home can significantly enhance your home office setup. However, before establishing a secure link between your home and work systems, ensuring that all aspects—especially your home network security—are properly configured is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential steps you need to take before connecting remotely to your office network, as well as how to set up a secure connection to protect against potential cyber threats.

How to connect to office from home [2 ways]

Here are two proven methods for connecting to office from home. Before selecting the best option for you, it's important to consult with your company's IT team to ensure there are no security concerns with your chosen method.

Way 1. Direct access via remote desktop software

Remote desktop software enables you to access your office computer from home, making it an ideal solution for working with files or applications stored on your office machine. It essentially replicates the desktop of your office PC, allowing you to control it remotely as if you were sitting at your desk.

Among the top options available today, AnyViewer stands out as an excellent choice for remote desktop access. It offers a smooth, secure experience for users needing to connect to their office PCs from anywhere. Thanks to its cross-platform compatibility, AnyViewer lets you easily connect from any device—whether a smartphone, tablet, or another computer.

What makes AnyViewer unique is its intuitive interface, which ensures that setting up remote access is quick and straightforward. Whether you're a tech pro or a novice, installation and configuration are hassle-free. Furthermore, its performance is exceptional, delivering fast connections with minimal lag, even when handling large files or running demanding applications.

When it comes to remote access, security is paramount. AnyViewer is equipped with advanced security features to protect your data, including:

• Advanced encryption protocols: AnyViewer utilizes strong encryption standards (such as ECC 256-bit end-to-end encryption) to ensure that your data is securely transmitted over the internet, preventing unauthorized access or data breaches.
• Two-factor authentication: For an added layer of protection, AnyViewer supports two-factor authentication (2FA). This requires a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone, to ensure that only authorized users can access your devices.
• Privacy mode: This feature ensures that your personal data or sensitive information remains hidden during remote sessions. It prevents any notifications or pop-ups from displaying on your screen while you're working remotely, ensuring complete privacy during your session.
• Black and white list: AnyViewer allows you to create both blacklists and whitelists, enabling you to restrict access from specific devices or only allow access from trusted ones. This is particularly useful in preventing unauthorized access.
• Role permissions: This feature lets you assign specific permissions based on user roles, allowing administrators to limit what users can and cannot do during remote sessions. This ensures that only authorized actions are carried out on your office machine.
• Session logs: AnyViewer keeps detailed logs of remote sessions, including the start and end times, as well as the devices used. These logs help track all activities for auditing purposes, enhancing transparency and accountability.

Here’s how to connect to work network from home securely using AnyViewer:

Step 1. Install AnyViewer on both your home and office devices. Ensure you create an account and log in on each device.

Step 2. On your home device, choose the office computer and enable unattended access by selecting "One-click control."

Step 3. Once connected, you'll have complete control over the remote device's mouse and keyboard.

Way 2. Setup VPN on your office computer

A VPN creates a secure connection to your office network from anywhere. When you use a remote access VPN, your device connects to a remote server that encrypts your internet traffic, making it nearly impossible for outsiders to access your data. Most companies require employees to use a VPN to access sensitive information, such as internal systems or client data, while working remotely.

Select a VPN service that suits your needs. Setting up a remote VPN connection between your home and office devices is quick and involves just a few simple steps.

Step 1. Prepare your devices for the connection. Before proceeding, ensure that:

• The VPN software is installed and connected to both your office and home devices.
• Your office PC is powered on.
• Your office PC is running Windows 10 or 11.

Step 2. To set up a remote desktop connection on Windows, you need to enable the Remote Desktop feature on both your home and office systems. This process is similar for both Windows 10 and 11:

• Go to Start > Settings.
• Select System > Remote Desktop (Windows 11) or Remote Desktop on the left toolbar (Windows 10).
• Turn on the Remote Desktop toggle (Windows 11) or Enable Remote Desktop toggle (Windows 10).
• Click Confirm when prompted.

Step 3. When attempting to enable remote access, you'll be asked to authenticate your credentials. Depending on your setup, you may need to authenticate via a Microsoft or Windows account:

• Microsoft account: Enter your Microsoft account email and password or your Windows account username and Microsoft account password.
• Windows account: Enter your Windows account username and password.

Step 4. After enabling remote access, connect your home PC to your office PC by following these steps:

• Open your VPN app.
• Find and copy the IP address of the device you want to access.
• Search for the Remote Desktop Connection app on your computer and open it.
• In the pop-up window, enter the IP address of the PC you wish to connect to.
• Click Connect.
• Enter your remote PC account name and login password, then click OK.

Conclusion

In conclusion, connecting to office from home is essential for a smooth and productive remote work setup. Whether using remote desktop software like AnyViewer for direct access or setting up a secure VPN connection, both methods ensure that you can work securely and efficiently. By following the steps and ensuring proper security configurations, you can enjoy a safe, seamless remote work experience. Always consult with your IT team to choose the best solution for your needs and company policies.