What is Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)?
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary communication protocol developed by Microsoft that enables users to remotely connect to and control another computer over a network. It transmits the graphical interface, keyboard, and mouse inputs from the remote user to the host machine, allowing full desktop access as if the user were physically present. RDP is widely used by IT administrators, vendors, and remote workers to access Windows-based systems, perform maintenance, and manage infrastructure from offsite locations.
Why is Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) Important?
RDP is essential for enabling remote access to Windows servers, HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), engineering workstations, and control center systems across IT and OT environments. It allows organizations to: reduce onsite personnel requirements, enable secure vendor support, perform real-time diagnostics and patching, and maintain uptime for geographically distributed assets.
However, RDP is also a common attack vector. If misconfigured or exposed to the internet, RDP can be exploited via brute force, credential stuffing, and session hijacking. Many high-profile ransomware and ICS-targeted attacks have originated from insecure RDP deployments.
In critical infrastructure environments, where remote access to control systems must be tightly governed, RDP use must be secured with multi-factor authentication (MFA), session isolation, credential injection, and strict access controls. Regulatory standards like NERC CIP, IEC 62443, and TSA SD02E emphasize the need to tightly secure and monitor RDP sessions.
How Does Xona Help Secure RDP?
Xona secures RDP by delivering browser-based, protocol-isolated access to RDP sessions without exposing the user or their device to the critical system’s network. Instead of relying on VPNs or jump servers, Xona brokers each RDP session through a Zero Trust access gateway that enforces: credential injection (no passwords handled by users), time- and role-based access controls, session recording and real-time oversight, and multi-factor authentication at every access point.
Because Xona runs entirely in the browser, users don’t need to install RDP clients or software agents, making it ideal for remote field teams, third-party vendors, and operations in bandwidth-constrained or air-gapped environments.
Xona transforms RDP from a high-risk remote access method into a controlled, auditable, and compliant access path aligned with the unique demands of OT and ICS systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is RDP considered a high-risk protocol if not properly secured?
RDP can expose systems to threats like brute-force attacks, credential theft, and ransomware if left open to the internet or configured without proper security controls.
What are best practices for securing RDP in critical infrastructure environments?
Best practices include enforcing multi-factor authentication, using credential injection, isolating sessions via a proxy, and logging all session activity for auditability.
Can RDP be used to access operational technology (OT) systems?
How does Xona’s platform secure RDP sessions?
Do users need to install any RDP client software when using Xona?
How does Xona help meet compliance requirements for RDP access?
Xona supports compliance by isolating RDP sessions, enforcing MFA, and recording all session activity to meet mandates from NERC CIP, IEC 62443, TSA SD02E, and similar standards.
