Staying Connected: Using Wi-Fi When Working Away from Home or the Office

1 November 2025

Staying Connected: Using Wi-Fi When Working Away from Home or the Office

In today’s flexible work environment, managers and employees often find themselves working remotely—whether from cafes, hotels, co-working spaces, or on the move. Reliable and secure Wi-Fi access is essential for productivity, communication, and data security when away from the familiar networks of home or office. This article guides managers on best practices for using Wi-Fi safely and effectively while working remotely.

Understanding the Risks of Public and Unsecured Wi-Fi

The main issue with most public Wi-Fi is that it’s often unsecured, meaning anyone with the right skills and tools can potentially view your internet traffic. Criminals can use this vulnerability to their advantage. They may set up fake Wi-Fi hotspots with convincing names that mention where you are, such as the name of a mall or airport. If you connect to one of these, a scammer could see everything you do online.

Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those in coffee shops, airports, or hotels, are convenient but often lack robust security. These networks can expose users to risks including data interception, man-in-the-middle attacks, and unauthorized access to devices. Managers must ensure that staff understand these risks and take appropriate precautions to protect sensitive information and maintain compliance with data protection policies.

Best Practices for Secure Wi-Fi Use Away from the Office

You don’t necessarily need to stop using public Wi-Fi. One of the best ways to protect your information is to use a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN creates a secure, private tunnel for your data that hides your online activity from snoopers. It also encrypts your traffic, making it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it. VPN costs can be minimal, considering the availability of free VPNs, so they are well worth paying for the peace of mind they provide. 

You can also take simpler steps. Check any website you visit is secure by looking for “https” and the padlock symbol in the address bar. You can also go into your device’s settings and turn off the feature that connects to Wi-Fi automatically. This step gives you control over which networks you join.

• Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): VPNs encrypt internet traffic, creating a secure tunnel between the user’s device and the internet. Encourage or require the use of company-approved VPN services when connecting to public or untrusted Wi-Fi.

• Verify Network Authenticity: Before connecting, confirm the correct network name with venue staff to avoid connecting to malicious hotspots designed to mimic legitimate networks.

• Avoid Sensitive Transactions on Public Wi-Fi: Where possible, avoid accessing sensitive systems, financial information, or confidential data over unsecured networks.

• Enable Firewall and Security Software: Ensure devices have active firewalls and up-to-date antivirus or endpoint protection software to block unauthorized access.

• Keep Software Updated: Regularly update operating systems, browsers, and applications to patch security vulnerabilities.

• Use HTTPS Websites: Encourage accessing websites that use HTTPS to ensure encrypted communication.

Choosing Reliable Wi-Fi Options When Traveling

• Prefer Trusted Networks: Use Wi-Fi networks provided by reputable hotels, business centers, or co-working spaces with known security standards.

• Consider Mobile Hotspots: When possible, use personal or company-provided mobile hotspots with cellular data, which often offer more secure connections than public Wi-Fi.

• Limit Auto-Connect Settings: Disable automatic connection to open Wi-Fi networks to prevent unintended connections.

Managing Device Settings for Wi-Fi Security

• Turn Off Sharing: Disable file and printer sharing when connected to public networks.

• Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication: Protect device logins and company accounts with strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication where available.

• Log Out After Sessions: Always log out of work applications and VPNs after use.

Training and Policies for Remote Wi-Fi Use

A cautious mindset is your best long-term defense. It’s a good habit to treat all public Wi-Fi as potentially risky, even if it’s a brand or location you trust. Avoid tasks like banking or shopping on these networks. Wait until you’re on a secure network you control, like your home Wi-Fi, or use your mobile data instead, as it is encrypted.

If using a public network is unavoidable, go to your settings and “forget” the network when you’re done. This precaution stops your device from joining it again automatically.

Managers should incorporate Wi-Fi security guidance into remote working policies and training programs. Clear communication about expectations, risks, and procedures helps staff make informed decisions and reduces the risk of security breaches.

Supporting Tools and Resources

• Provide access to company VPNs and ensure easy setup guides.

• Offer checklists or quick reference guides for secure Wi-Fi use.

• Regularly update staff on emerging threats and best practices.

Final Thoughts

Wi-Fi connectivity is a cornerstone of modern remote work, but it comes with security challenges that managers must address proactively. By fostering awareness, providing secure tools, and embedding best practices into policies, managers can empower their teams to work effectively and safely from anywhere.

References

• National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) guidance on public Wi-Fi security — GOV.UK

• Cyber Aware: Staying safe online — GOV.UK

• Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) guidance on data protection and remote working

• UK Government VPN and remote access security best practices

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