Zero Trust Access (ZTA) vs. VPN

Zero Trust Access (ZTA) is a security model that requires strict verification for every user and device attempting to access resources on a network, regardless of their location inside or outside the network perimeter. Unlike traditional VPNs, ZTA grants access only to specific applications or services based on user identity and context, continuously verifying trust and providing a more granular, secure approach to remote access.

• Zero trust access is based on the principle of "never trust, always verify." It assumes that threats can exist both outside and inside the network, thus it does not automatically trust users or devices based solely on their network location or IP address.
• Virtual private networks operate on the principle of creating a secure, encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and the network, extending a private network across a public network, which allows users to send and receive data as if their devices were directly connected to the private network.
• ZTA grants access based on the identity of users and devices, their roles, and other context like device health or location. Access is limited to what is necessary for users to perform their jobs, implementing the principle of least privilege.
• Users connected to a VPN have broad access to the network, which can pose a security risk if a user’s credentials are compromised.

Zero trust architecture is a comprehensive security model designed to support remote work, cloud services, and mobile access. At its core, this approach employs micro-segmentation to divide the network into small, secure zones, enabling more granular and precise security controls. This strategy allows for finer control over access and permissions, reducing the potential attack surface. A crucial aspect of zero trust is the continuous monitoring and validation of the security posture of both devices and users. This ongoing assessment ensures that every access request is scrutinized, regardless of its origin, and that security policies are consistently enforced. ZTA fundamentally changes how companies approach network protection.

VPNs are widely used for remote access because they can encrypt data in transit and protect data from interception by malicious actors. However, VPNs have limitations in modern, cloud-centric environments. A VPN connection offers less granular control over user access, potentially exposing more of the network than necessary. VPNs were designed before companies relied on a diverse array of cloud services, software-as-a-service (SaaS) applications, edge devices, etc. VPNs are usually best suited to a centralized network model and can reduce performance and create security gaps in dispersed and hybrid networks.

Zero Trust Access provides many security, business, and performance benefits over the VPN approach:

By understanding the differences between ZTA and VPNs and evaluating your organization’s needs, you can take proactive steps to enhance your cybersecurity posture, ensuring your data and resources are protected in an increasingly complex digital world.

Assess Your Needs: Evaluate your organization’s specific security requirements, considering factors like remote work, cloud adoption, and sensitivity of the data and resources.

Implement Zero Trust Principles: Regardless of whether you are using a VPN, moving towards a Zero Trust model can enhance security. Start by identifying sensitive data and enforcing strict access controls and authentication.

Continuous Monitoring and Education: Implement continuous monitoring for unusual access patterns or security breaches and educate users about security best practices to reduce risks.

Related terms

• Zero Trust Access and Zero Trust Network Access
• Secure Internet Access
• Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)
• What is a VPN client?
• RBAC and ABAC

Further reading

•  Zero Trust Access Starter Kit
• Thinking SASE? Start with Zero Trust
• Making the leap: How to replace VPN with ZTNA
• Getting started with Zero Trust Network Access
• Barracuda Zero Trust Access blog

Consult with Barracuda: Work with cybersecurity experts to develop a strategy that aligns with Zero Trust principles, tailored to your organization’s specific needs and risk profile.

• Build and Price: https://www.barracuda.com/products/network-protection/secureedge/build-and-price
• Replace your VPN with Zero Trust Access: https://app.barracuda.com/cga-trial
• Get your Zero Trust Access Starter Kit: https://www.barracuda.com/products/network-protection/zta-starter-kit

Barracuda provides a comprehensive cybersecurity platform that includes advanced security and connectivity features that fully support Zero Trust Access and VPN replacement. Barracuda offers best value, feature-rich, one-stop solutions that protect against a wide range of threat vectors and are backed up by complete, award-winning customer service. Because you are working with one vendor, you benefit from reduced complexity, increased effectiveness, and lower total cost of ownership. Hundreds of thousands of customers worldwide count on Barracuda to protect their email, networks, applications, and data.