A Plain-English Guide to Replacing VPNs and Securing Remote Access
Executive Summary
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a modern way to give your team access to apps and systems, without exposing your entire network.
It replaces old-school VPNs with smarter, safer technology. Instead of giving users a virtual key to everything, ZTNA checks who they are, what device they’re on, and what they actually need to access, every single time.
Introduction
This blog is part of our SSE and SASE Explained series. If you’re catching up, start here:
SSE vs. SASE: What’s the Difference — and What Does Your Business Need?
This post dives into one of the most important elements of both SASE and SSE: ZTNA, a smart, modern alternative to the traditional VPN.
What Is ZTNA?
ZTNA stands for Zero Trust Network Access. It allows users to securely access only the apps and data they need, and nothing else.
It’s based on the Zero Trust principle: ‘Never trust, always verify.’
Why VPNs No Longer Cut It
Traditional VPNs connect users to the entire business network. ZTNA solves the problems of too much access, slowdowns, lack of controls, and poor scalability.
A Real-World Example
You’ve got a team member working from home who needs to access your accounts system.
- With a VPN: they log in and can see everything
- With ZTNA: they only access the accounts app
Even if their laptop is stolen or login leaked, ZTNA drastically reduces the risk.
Why ZTNA Matters for Businesses
ZTNA gives your team the access they need, but nothing more. It limits risk by applying identity-based controls, ensures remote workers only see what’s relevant to their role, and helps prevent security breaches caused by over-permissive access. It’s a practical way to support flexible working without compromising your cybersecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for many businesses, ZTNA does everything a VPN does, but more securely and efficiently.
Not at all. Many solutions are cloud-based and easy to roll out and manage remotely.
Yes. ZTNA can usually integrate with apps, file shares, and internal systems, without needing a full infrastructure overhaul.
ZTNA can block access from unmanaged or insecure devices, or limit what they can do, based on policies you set.
Yes, ZTNA is a core security layer in both. It’s the part that replaces your VPN and enforces smart access controls.
Next Steps
ZTNA is one of the fastest, simplest, and most secure ways to give your team access to the apps they need, without opening up your entire network.
Want help moving away from VPNs and toward Zero Trust access?
Just ask your Get Support Customer Success Manager or call our team on 01865 594000.