Utilize the router to shift user flow
Utilize the router to shift user flow
You're exploring ways to extend your home desktop access to your work network. It's feasible with certain configurations. Without a constantly available office machine, you can still set up remote access using port forwarding or VPN solutions that adapt to your schedule. Just ensure your router supports dynamic IPs and proper security settings.
You can contact the IT department directly for VPN access to the network.
VPN is definitely the top choice. Avoid exposing ports for RDP if your system runs continuously—use a VPN instead. This ensures a secure link rather than relying on frequently targeted ports with weak connections. Other options exist, like using a server with a virtual desktop provider such as Citrix and accessing it externally, but unless you already have that setup, a VPN is the safest way to reduce security risks.
You only require network connectivity for certain shares, eliminating the need for a Windows setup on that network. If yes, obtain a Raspberry Pi and set up OpenVPN on it. Direct the IT team to forward port 1194 to the device's IP. Then connect your client using OpenVPN at home and gain access.
Follow the same steps as the guide but avoid the standard port to prevent the VPN server from appearing on IP scan sites such as shodan.io.