# Why should legacy protocols like RDP be eradicated from internal networks?

- Link: https://www.agilicus.com/faq/why-should-legacy-protocols-like-rdp-be-eradicated-from-internal-networks/
- Published: 2026-05-11T15:50:31+00:00
- Author: Don Bowman

Legacy protocols such as remote desktop protocol (RDP), server message block (SMB),
and Telnet were not designed with modern security threats in mind and are frequently
exploited by ransomware to spread across networks. These protocols often lack robust
encryption and multi-factor authentication, making them prime targets for lateral
movement. Eradicating these from internal subnets and replacing them with secure,
identity-aware proxies significantly hardens the environment. See how we [evolve past legacy protocols](https://www.agilicus.com/from-tunnels-to-zero-trust-the-evolution-of-industrial-remote-access/).

For more information, see [Industrial Cyber Security Best Practices](https://www.agilicus.com/white-papers/industrial-cyber-security-best-practices/).