The concept of privileged access workstations (PAWs) has gained traction in recent years as organizations have become increasingly aware of the need to secure their sensitive data and systems. A PAW is a dedicated, highly secure workstation that allows IT administrators to perform administrative tasks without compromising the security of the organization’s network.

In this guide, we will explore how you can set up and use a PAW to enhance your organization’s overall security posture. We will cover topics such as the benefits of using a PAW, best practices for setting up and configuring a PAW, and how to use it effectively in daily operations. Additionally, we will discuss common challenges and considerations when implementing a PAW solution.

What Is a Privileged Access Workstation?

A privileged access workstation (PAW) is a specialized computer that is designated for performing administrative tasks in an organization’s IT environment. It is designed with enhanced security features to protect the sensitive data and systems it has access to.

The purpose of a PAW is to separate high-risk activities such as system administration, network configuration, and software installation from regular user activities. This segregation helps minimize the risk of accidental or intentional misuse of privileged credentials, which can lead to data breaches and other security incidents.

Plus, a PAW acts as a gatekeeper between the internal network and external networks, providing an additional layer of protection against external threats. It restricts access to critical systems and data, making it more difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access.

Why Secure Privileged Access?

Privileged access refers to the highest level of permissions granted to users or systems within an organization. It allows them to perform critical operations and make changes that affect the entire IT infrastructure.

As such, privileged accounts are prime targets for cybercriminals, as compromising them can provide attackers with unrestricted access to sensitive data and systems. According to a study by Forrester, 80% of data breaches involve compromised privileged credentials.

By securing privileged access with a PAW, organizations can significantly reduce their attack surface and mitigate the risk of unauthorized access. This approach helps ensure that only authorized individuals have access to critical systems and makes it more difficult for attackers to infiltrate the network.

Steps to Secure with a Privileged Access Workstation

Setting up and using a PAW involves several steps, each of which is crucial for ensuring the security of your organization’s network.

Define Your PAW Requirements

Before setting up your PAW, it is essential to define your organization’s specific needs and requirements. This step involves identifying the individuals who will use the PAW, their roles and responsibilities, and the tasks they will perform.

Additionally, you should determine what systems and data the PAW will have access to, as well as any compliance or regulatory requirements that need to be met. Plus, consider any technical requirements, such as hardware and software specifications.

Plus, ensure that your organization has a clear policy in place for using and managing privileged accounts to minimize the risk of misuse or abuse. And, establish a process for regularly reviewing and updating these requirements.

Set Up Your PAW Environment

Once you have defined your requirements, it’s time to set up the PAW environment. This step involves configuring the workstation with enhanced security features such as:

• Secure boot and firmware protection
• BitLocker encryption for full-disk protection
• Isolated network connectivity with restricted internet access
• Strong password policies and frequent password changes

Additionally, you should restrict physical access to the PAW by implementing measures like biometric authentication or secure storage when not in use. Plus, ensure that only authorized individuals have administrative access to the PAW.

Configure Remote Access

To enable secure remote access to your Privileged Access Workstation (PAW), it is essential to implement robust controls.

Begin by utilizing secure remote access technologies like virtual private networks (VPNs) or remote desktop protocols (RDP) with multi-factor authentication for authorized users. Configure firewall rules to restrict access to the PAW from authorized IP addresses or specific networks. Implement session recording and auditing mechanisms to track and monitor remote activities. Regularly update and patch remote access software to mitigate vulnerabilities.

By following these measures, you can ensure that remote access to your PAW is secure and in compliance with your organization’s security policies and requirements.

Implement Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your PAW by requiring users to provide multiple forms of identification before accessing privileged accounts. This can include a combination of passwords, biometric verification, smart cards, or one-time passcodes.

By implementing MFA, you can prevent attackers from gaining unauthorized access even if they have obtained valid credentials. It is a crucial step in securing your PAW and mitigating the risk of compromised accounts.

Use Endpoint Privileged Management (EPM)

Another important consideration when implementing a Privileged Access Workstation is endpoint privileged management (EPM). EPM software helps organizations manage and enforce policies regarding privileged access by controlling the actions of users who have administrative rights.

Admin By Request EPM enhances PAW security by allowing you to define application and command permissions, restrict file or directory access, and receive real-time alerts for suspicious activity, ensuring robust protection against misuse of privileged accounts.

Monitor and Audit Activity

Monitoring and auditing the activities performed on your PAW is crucial for detecting any abnormal behavior or unauthorized access attempts. It involves regularly reviewing logs and event data from the workstation, remote connections, and privileged accounts.

Additionally, implementing real-time alerts for any suspicious activity can help organizations detect and respond to potential security incidents promptly. By regularly monitoring and auditing PAW activities, organizations can ensure compliance with policies and identify any vulnerabilities that may require remediation.

Regularly Update and Maintain the PAW

Lastly, it is crucial to regularly update and maintain your Privileged Access Workstation to ensure its continued security. This includes installing software updates and patches, updating security configurations, and reviewing access policies.

Additionally, conducting regular audits of your PAW environment can help identify any gaps or weaknesses that may need addressing. Plus, ensure that all individuals who have access to the workstation receive training on proper usage and security best practices.

By following these steps, organizations can secure their networks with a Privileged Access Workstation and reduce risks tied to privileged access. Ongoing monitoring, auditing, and updates are key to maintaining security. Tools like Admin By Request EPM enhance this process with seamless privilege management and real-time monitoring to safeguard sensitive data.

What If Your Organization Can’t Implement a PAW?

While implementing a Privileged Access Workstation may not be feasible for all organizations, there are still ways to secure privileged accounts and reduce risks. Some alternatives include:

• Privilege Management Software: Similar to Admin By Request EPM, there are other privilege management tools available in the market that can help organizations manage and control privileged access. These tools offer features such as application control, command restriction, and real-time alerting to mitigate the risk of misuse.
• Least Privilege Access: Implementing a least privilege access approach means restricting user privileges to only what is necessary for their job role. This can help minimize the number of privileged accounts in an organization and reduce the attack surface for potential threats.
• Account Monitoring and Auditing: Regularly monitoring and auditing all privileged account activities can help organizations detect any suspicious behavior or unauthorized access attempts. It is an essential step in securing privileged accounts even without a dedicated PAW.
• User Training and Awareness: Educating employees on proper security practices and the importance of protecting privileged accounts can help mitigate risks even without a dedicated PAW. Regular training and awareness programs can also help in identifying potential threats and vulnerabilities within the organization.

While a Privileged Access Workstation offers comprehensive protection for privileged accounts, organizations can enhance their security by integrating additional measures like endpoint privilege management. Admin By Request EPM seamlessly complements these efforts by enabling real-time monitoring, secure privilege control, and proactive risk mitigation, ensuring a robust defense for your network.

How Much Budget Does a PAW Require?

The cost of implementing a Privileged Access Workstation may vary depending on the organization’s size, infrastructure, and security requirements. Factors that can impact the budget include:

• Hardware and Software Costs: This includes purchasing the workstation itself, its accessories, and any additional software needed for secure remote access.
• Implementation and Configuration Expenses: Implementing a PAW may require extra resources such as IT staff or consultants who can help set up and configure the workstation according to organizational needs.
• Maintenance and Upkeep Costs: Regularly updating and maintaining the PAW can also add to its overall cost. This includes software updates, security patches, policy reviews, training costs, and more.
• Ongoing Support and Training: Organizations may also need to invest in ongoing support and training for employees who will be using the workstation to ensure its smooth operation.

While implementing a Privileged Access Workstation may require a significant initial investment, it can help organizations save on potential costs associated with security breaches and data loss in the long run. Plus, tools like Admin By Request EPM offer affordable solutions for endpoint privilege management, making it easier for organizations to secure their privileged accounts.

Opt for Admin By Request EPM: A Cost-Effective and Efficient Endpoint Privilege Management Solution

Admin By Request offers a leading Endpoint Privilege Management (EPM) solution that helps organizations manage user privileges efficiently and cost-effectively.

A standout feature of Admin By Request EPM is the “Run as Admin” feature, which allows users to run specific applications with admin privileges without granting full admin rights to the user/endpoint. This is perfect for users who only occasionally need elevated access, maintaining system security.

Admin By Request also offers granular access controls, letting organizations assign privileges based on user roles and user groups. This limits risk by ensuring users only have the access they need to do their job (the Principle of Least Privilege (POLP).

Additional features include advanced malware detection with real-time scanning using over 35 anti-virus engines and OPSWAT’s MetaDefender, which prevents malware from running with admin privileges. Contact our sales team today to book a demo and see how Admin By Request can transform your organization’s security.

FAQs

What is the role of a privileged access workstation in a privileged access strategy?

A privileged access workstation is a key component of a privileged access strategy. It ensures secure environments for managing sensitive accounts by restricting web browsing and enabling application execution control.

How does a privileged access workstation enhance endpoint detection and security?

Privileged access workstations use advanced endpoint detection to monitor threats. They operate on a hardened operating system, preventing unauthorized activities while limiting application execution control to maintain security.

Can a privileged access workstation help to gain access to sensitive accounts?

Yes, privileged access workstations are designed for administrators to gain access securely to sensitive accounts. They enforce strict rules about application execution and allow access only to those with granted access permissions.

Does a privileged access workstation require a physical device for active directory management?

Yes, a privileged access workstation typically requires a physical device to ensure secure connections. It minimizes risks during active directory tasks, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring compliance with security controls.

Conclusion

In today’s digital landscape, securing privileged accounts is crucial for organizations to protect themselves against cyber threats. While implementing a Privileged Access Workstation may not be feasible for all organizations, there are still ways to secure privileged accounts and reduce risks. Some alternatives include privilege management software, least privilege access, account monitoring and auditing, and user training and awareness.

The cost of implementing a PAW may vary depending on the organization’s size and security requirements. However, tools like Admin By Request EPM offer affordable solutions for endpoint privilege management.

Transform your organization’s security with Admin By Request today! Contact our sales team to book a demo and see how we can help secure your privileged accounts. So, it is essential for organizations to assess their security needs and budget before implementing a PAW.