For decades, VPNs were the default solution for secure remote access. They created encrypted tunnels between devices and corporate networks, allowing employees to work from anywhere. But as remote work evolved, so did the threats and inefficiencies associated with VPNs.

Today, enterprises are realizing that VPNs are outdated, insecure, and operationally inefficient. High-profile breaches, cumbersome user experiences, and the rise of zero-trust security have rendered VPNs obsolete. So, what’s next?

The Problem with VPNs

At their core, VPNs provide broad network access rather than precise, application-level control. This introduces several key challenges:

• Security Risks: A compromised VPN credential grants attackers full network access, making VPNs a prime target. (Remember the Colonial Pipeline attack?)
• Operational Headaches: VPNs require ongoing maintenance, patching, and capacity planning—issues that became painfully evident during the COVID-19 shift to remote work.
• User Frustration: VPN clients are notorious for slow speeds, frequent disconnects, and compatibility issues. Remote workers need seamless, fast access—not a bottleneck.

For security-conscious IT leaders, VPNs have become more of a liability than a solution.

A Smarter Approach: App-Centric Access

Instead of providing network-wide access, modern security solutions grant access only to the apps and resources users need—without exposing the entire corporate network. This approach aligns with zero-trust principles and significantly reduces risk.

Here’s what a VPN replacement should offer:

✅ Granular Access Controls – Users access specific apps, not the entire network.

✅ Zero-Trust Security – Continuous verification, least-privilege access, and built-in data loss prevention.

✅ Agentless, Browser-Based Access – No VPN clients, no device agents, just secure access from any browser.

✅ Simplified IT Operations – No VPN server capacity planning, patching, or firewall headaches.

The Future is VPN-Free

The shift away from VPNs isn’t just theoretical—many enterprises are already replacing them with cloud-native, zero-trust solutions. Instead of managing fragile tunnels and outdated authentication methods, IT teams can securely enable remote work without the hassle.

VPNs had their moment, but their time is up. The future belongs to solutions that prioritize security, user experience, and IT efficiency—without the baggage of legacy infrastructure.

Ready to Move Beyond VPNs?

Forward-thinking IT leaders are already making the switch. Are you?

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