We have a range of technologies and solutions that allow us to securely work from any location with a suitable internet connection.
Remote access can be achieved in a variety of ways including from managed and unmanaged devices.
Managed device access
There are a a number of options for devices which are managed by our IT team.
Using iOS and Android devices to enable agile working
- We provide iOS and Android devices to those of us who work in an agile manner for example for colleagues who are out and about in the community
- Approved applications can be used to access Office 365 applications at any time
- The Global Protect Client can be connected to access limited internal resources
- When working in the community we need to be mindful that others may see what is on our screen or hear any conversations
Using laptops to enable hybrid and remote working
- We provide managed laptops to staff who work remotely; either permanently or in a hybrid way (for example, those who work in the office and at remote locations)
- Managed laptops access Gateshead Council's network via the Global Protect client
- Very limited access is permitted from the device when the Global Protect client is not connected - this includes access to Office 365 services
Unmanaged device access
Unmanaged devices are those which are not directly managed by our IT department.
We are required by the Data Protection Act 2018 and the UK General Data Protection Regulation to protect all the personal data that we process. The Act has six principles we are required to follow which include:
- the storage limitation principle (not keeping data longer than necessary)
- the integrity and confidentiality principle (security)
Complying with these principles requires us to know where data is held/stored and that appropriate security measures are in place.
These controls are designed to maintain visibility of, control of, and the ability to wipe all data owned or managed by Gateshead Council.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is enforced on all remote access sessions from personal devices.
Using unmanaged iOS and Android devices to enable hybrid and home working
- Colleagues who do not have a Council-managed iOS or Android device can access Office 365 resources from their own personal device
- Approved apps should be used when accessing Gateshead Council resources such as Outlook, Teams, SharePoint
- Citrix access to the network is also available from these devices
All other unmanaged devices
- All other personal devices (for example, Windows, MAC, Linux) can access Office 365 resources from a browser only. Access from any other application is not allowed with policies in place to block access.
- Users will be redirected through a new user portal to maintain security
- Citrix access to the network is also available from these devices
- All downloads are blocked
