Secure AVD Implementation for NSW Government Department with Essential 8 Compliance by cubesys 

Abstract

This case study explores the successful collaboration between the NSW Government Department and cubesys, a leading IT solutions provider, in the implementation of a secure and remotely accessible platform while ensuring Essential 8 compliance. The project aimed to replace an outdated, physically isolated network with a modern AVD-based solution. It was tailored to maintain stringent security requirements. cubesys, through its expertise and commitment, delivered a prompt and comprehensive solution, ensuring the highest level of security and remote accessibility.

Introduction

In response to the evolving technology landscape and increased demand for remote work capabilities, the NSW Government Department recognized the need for a secure and accessible platform encompassing secure desktops, file shares, and applications. This initiative aimed to enhance operational efficiency and facilitate remote working while ensuring strict compliance with Essential 8 guidelines as per government and ACSC (Australian Cyber Security Centre) guidance. 

Project Objectives

The primary objectives of this project were as follows: 

• Establish a Secure and Remotely Accessible Platform: Create a platform that allows secure access to essential resources like desktops, files, and applications from remote locations. 

• Ensure Essential 8 Compliance: Strictly adhere to the Essential 8 guidelines to enhance overall security, data compliance, and auditing capabilities. 

• Replace Outdated Isolated Network: Replace an outdated, physically isolated network to meet modern security and accessibility requirements. 

• Customize AVD Solution: Customize the AVD (Azure Virtual Desktop) solution to maintain high-level security while enabling remote accessibility. 

The cubesys Solution

The NSW Government Department partnered with cubesys, a renowned IT solutions provider with a proven track record in delivering complex projects. The cubesys team proposed a comprehensive solution to meet the project objectives: 

• Secure Remote Platform Implementation: cubesys deployed a modern AVD-based solution, enabling secure access to desktops, file shares, and applications from remote locations. This solution integrated seamlessly with the department’s existing infrastructure. 

• Essential 8 Compliance: cubesys meticulously ensured that the implementation complied with the Essential 8 guidelines. They implemented stringent security measures, access controls, and auditing capabilities to enhance overall security and compliance. 

• Network Replacement: The outdated physically isolated network was replaced with the AVD-based solution, eliminating the limitations of the previous network and paving the way for remote accessibility. 

• Tailored AVD Solution: cubesys customized the AVD solution to meet the specific security requirements of the government department. This customization included strict access controls, data encryption, and multi-factor authentication, ensuring the same level of security even with remote access. 

Project Execution

The cubesys team executed the project with precision, adhering to a well-defined plan.  

cubesys conducted a thorough requirement analysis to tailor the solution to the department’s needs. They executed the AVD-based solution meticulously, prioritizing security and accessibility. Rigorous testing and quality assurance procedures were in place to identify and rectify any issues, ensuring a flawless implementation. cubesys also provided training and a seamless handover, enabling efficient platform usage and a smooth transition for the department. 

Results and Benefits of Essential 8 compliance and customized AVD

The collaboration between the NSW Government Department and cubesys yielded several significant benefits. The implementation of Essential 8 compliance and customized AVD solutions greatly enhanced security, protecting critical data. It also enabled remote work without sacrificing security, boosting flexibility and productivity. The new solution reduced IT maintenance and infrastructure costs, providing an efficient and cost-effective approach. Additionally, it improved the department’s compliance and auditing capabilities, ensuring data integrity and regulatory adherence. 

Conclusion

The successful collaboration between the NSW Government Department and cubesys in implementing a secure and remotely accessible platform, coupled with Essential 8 compliance and a tailored AVD solution, is a testament to the capability and expertise of cubesys. This project showcases cubesys’ commitment to delivering innovative solutions that meet complex security requirements while fostering remote accessibility, ultimately enhancing the operational efficiency of government departments. 

The project’s success is a model for how government organizations can leverage advanced IT solutions to enhance security, compliance, and remote working capabilities while reducing operational costs. It serves as an example of a partnership that transforms government IT infrastructure to meet the demands of the modern world.