What is a primary advantage of using ZTNA compared to traditional VPNs?

The primary advantage of using Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) compared to traditional VPNs is that it improves security and efficiency by verifying user identity dynamically. ZTNA operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify," which means that every access request is authenticated and authorized based on contextual information such as user identity, device posture, location, and the type of application being accessed. This dynamic verification creates a much stronger security posture, as access is not granted based solely on the connection to the corporate network, as is the case with traditional VPNs.

In contrast to traditional VPNs, where once a user is authenticated, they often gain access to the entire network, ZTNA enforces granular access controls. This means that users only receive access to the applications and resources they need for their specific roles, minimizing the risk of lateral movement within the network in the event of a compromise. Thus, ZTNA not only fortifies security but also enhances efficiency by ensuring that users have the appropriate level of access at all times.

While fewer authentication steps and simplified network configuration might seem appealing, they do not address the fundamental security weaknesses of traditional VPNs. Unlimited access to all applications does not align with the Zero Trust model, as it goes