How to Set Up an RDP Firewall for Secure Remote Desktop Access

If you do, RDP Security, Remote Desktop Protection, and Firewall Configuration are important topics to research. But unsecured RDP connections are one of the biggest targets of cybercriminals. Improperly configured firewalls lead to vulnerability exploits, data theft, ransomware attacks, and unauthorized access.

This step-by-step guide will cover the way to secure your remote parsing with the help of firewall rules, allowing you to store safe and reliable relational organizations whenever you need them for your work.

The Risk of RDP Attacks

RDP is very useful, but it poses a large risk if it is misconfigured. Here’s why:

• Brute Force Attacks: Hackers use automated scripts to guess login credentials. Once inside, they can steal data or install malware.
• RDP Exploits: Attackers exploit vulnerabilities in outdated RDP software versions.
• Man-in-the-Middle Attacks: Attackers can intercept and modify sessions without encryption.
• IP-Based Access: If RDP is open to the internet, it allows anyone to try connecting, increasing the risk of attacks.

Properly configuring your firewall helps prevent unwanted visitors and ensures only legitimate users can connect.

Limiting Access & Enforcing Multi-Factor Authentication

There are two key parts to securing a remote desktop connection:

1. Limit RDP Access to Specific IPs

Restrict access to only trusted IP addresses instead of allowing any address.

• Use Allow Lists: Ensure the firewall allows connectivity only to specific IP ranges such as office networks or VPN ranges.
• Block Unknown IPs: Create rules to deny any incoming traffic from unauthorized IPs on RDP ports (port 3389 by default).

2. Activate Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step.

• MFA Apps: Use Microsoft Authenticator, Google Authenticator, or Duo Security.
• Enforce RDP MFA Policies: MFA enforcement is supported in Azure AD and Windows Server.

Implementing MFA minimizes the risk of rogue logins.

Defining RDP Firewall Rules

By securing firewall settings, only authorized users and devices can access your remote desktop connections safely. Here’s how:

1. Change the Default RDP Port

RDP uses a default port of 3389, often scanned by attackers. Changing it reduces exposure.

• Open Registry Editor (Run regedit)
• Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Terminal Server\WinStations\RDP-Tcp
• Change the PortNumber to a custom port (e.g., 45000 or another unused port).
• Update firewall rules to allow the new port but block 3389.
• Reboot the machine to apply changes.

2. Configure Windows Firewall to Limit RDP

Prevent unauthorized access by setting an inbound rule for Windows Firewall:

• Press Windows + S, then search for Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security.
• Select Inbound Rules > New Rule.
• Choose Port, select TCP, and enter your custom RDP port.
• Allow connections only from specific IPs.
• Activate and enforce the rule.

3. Enable Network-Level Authentication (NLA)

NLA requires authentication before a remote session starts, limiting exposure to attacks.

• Run sysdm.cpl and go to Remote Settings.
• Enable Allow connections only from computers running NLA.

This prevents unauthorized access attempts before the login prompt appears.

4. Set Up Firewall Geo-Blocking

If your business operates in certain regions, geo-blocking can restrict access from high-risk regions.

• Implement firewall policies to allow access only from approved countries or office locations.
• Use geo-IP filtering available in most enterprise firewalls and cloud services.

5. Establish a VPN for Accessing Remote Desktop

Instead of exposing RDP directly to the internet, users should connect via a VPN first.

• Restrict RDP traffic to VPN-connected users only.
• Bind RDP access to specific network adapters that connect to private networks.

VPNs create encrypted tunnels, making RDP connections more secure.

Secure RDP Firewall Solutions by PJ Networks

Managing firewall configurations for Remote Desktop Protection can be complex, especially for businesses without a dedicated IT team.

PJ Networks offers pre-configured firewall rentals that are secure and easy to deploy.

RDP Security: The Case for Renting Firewalls

• Easy Setup: Pre-configured firewalls with default security rules block unauthorized RDP access.
• Custom Security Policies: Firewall settings and rules tailored to your business needs.
• Continuous Monitoring: Security patches and real-time monitoring protect against emerging threats.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Renting a firewall is more affordable than purchasing and maintaining one.
• Professional Support: Expert guidance on installation, configuration, and security maintenance.

Instead of configuring complex firewall settings, businesses can rent a fully-secured firewall optimized for RDP Security and Remote Desktop Protection.

Conclusion

Securing remote desktop connections is essential for protecting business data and preventing cyberattacks. Proper firewall configuration, MFA enforcement, IP access restrictions, and advanced security measures help mitigate risks.

For those overwhelmed by firewall setup, renting a pre-secured firewall from PJ Networks is a simple and cost-effective solution.

Stay secure, enhance remote desktop protection, and simplify security management.