Best VPN Alternatives for Business & Secure Remote Access

Virtual private networks (VPNs) have been the most popular corporate remote access solution for decades. But as businesses switch to a hybrid work model and upgrade to cloud infrastructures, a basic VPN connection is no longer sufficient. VPNs’ security and management methods need to change. A VPN will ensure secure remote access to company networks and data. Employees working from different locations can connect to business systems safely, thereby ensuring the protection of sensitive information from cyber threats.

This article investigates the best VPN alternatives for securing your business network and managing individual user access.

Why Use VPN Alternatives for Business?

Enterprises have long relied on VPNs to access company devices and mitigate cyber risks. However, this widely used technology has significant shortcomings that can undermine your business network’s security.

In the past, company resources were confined to a single on-premises data center. Today, enterprises are transitioning to cloud infrastructure, relying on a mix of in-house employees and third-party service providers. As a result, company resources are now accessed from multiple devices, many of which may not be under the company’s control.

A VPN gateway is visible to anyone using scanning applications, including cybercriminals. A single unpatched VPN connection can expose the entire network. If a hacker obtains an employee’s credentials, they can access the network as a trusted user, escalate privileges, or make system-level changes.

Cybercriminals can steal users’ credentials through man-in-the-middle attacks, phishing, or malware. While a VPN protects against the first, it does not prevent social engineering attacks or malware infections. This problem calls for the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA).

MFA requires users to provide multiple verification factors to access an application or system. It is a critical component of identity and access management, decreasing the risk of a cyber attack. Unfortunately, most business VPN solutions don’t enforce MFA.

Moreover, a VPN degrades network performance, slowing down connections. Bottlenecks can occur when too many users access the network at the same time.

Managing secure access in an enterprise environment is challenging due to the fragmented nature of VPN architecture. Different third-party providers and cloud platforms operate separate VPN networks, making it difficult to maintain consistent security policies. This complexity increases the likelihood of misconfiguration, creating vulnerabilities that attackers may exploit.

Alternatives to VPNs — Solutions for Remote Access

If you’re looking for a VPN alternative to enhance your corporate network security, consider these options.

Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

The zero-trust model is a VPN alternative that grants virtual access to an enterprise’s infrastructure based on clearly defined control policies. Unlike a VPN, ZTNA only grants access to specific applications and services rather than the entire network.

First, a user is authenticated through the ZTNA service. Then, the ZTNA service provides access to a particular application via an encrypted tunnel. The user cannot access applications for which they don’t have permission.

If a user’s credentials are compromised, a hacker with VPN access could infiltrate the company’s entire network. However, with ZTNA, they can only access resources assigned to the specific user. This localized breach is easier to contain and mitigate.

With ZTNA, companies can choose different methods to verify users. While VPN rely on IP-based verification,  ZTNA can enforce device-specific policies or multi-factor authentication (MFA). Additionally, control policies can vary for each employee, ensuring that remote workers log in using company-approved devices.

ZTNA 2.0 offers a more advanced approach by continuously assessing trust based on user behavior and device posture (security-related device data). The system detects any suspicious activity and revokes access in real time. Plus, ZTNA 2.0 performs continuous traffic inspection, even for verified connections, enhancing security.

But ZTNA has downsides. Integrating a ZTNA solution into existing infrastructure can be complex and time-consuming. It also requires significant resources; extra infrastructure and processing power are needed to enforce policies and monitor access.

ZTNA can also be challenging to monitor and manage. This architecture may not provide the same level of network visibility as traditional security solutions.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

A Secure access service edge, or SASE, is a framework that combines Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) and Zero-Trust Network access (ZTNA) into a cloud-defined platform.

In simple terms, SASE integrates many security technologies, such as a VPN, a firewall, and anti-malware software, into a single service. It may also include access management, identity control, and application awareness features.

Like a VPN, SASE establishes a secure connection between devices or networks via an encrypted tunnel. However, like ZTNA, it also includes user and device authentication and enforces access policies.

SASE is a cloud-based technology, so it’s easier to scale and manage than outdated on-premises remote access solutions. Companies can add or remove users, devices, and apps without extra hassle. SASE architecture also doesn’t need physical hardware and maintenance.

One of SASE’s primary benefits is its ability to apply specific policies to each application. For example, it can block access to social media or restrict file sharing on public networks.

However, SASE solutions typically charge based on data usage, making costs unpredictable. The initial implementation of such a system can also be expensive.

Another drawback of SASE is its limited support for legacy applications due to its cloud architecture. Therefore, it’s not the best solution for companies relying on on-premises infrastructure.

Troubleshooting network issues or making changes to the network can also be challenging because SASE depends on internet connectivity, which may introduce latency and other performance issues.

Software-defined Perimeter (SDP)

A software-defined perimeter, or SDP, is a security architecture that provides remote access to corporate resources by establishing an invisible network perimeter around them. This model provides access to specific applications and resources on a per-user and per-session basis rather than giving access to the whole network.

SDP utilizes a combination of encryption, authentication, and authorization technologies. Like a VPN, it establishes a secure tunnel between the user and the application, ensuring that it remains unreadable even if the traffic is intercepted.

SDP also verifies the identity of the user and device before granting access to the application. This can include multi-factor authentication, device health checks, and other security measures to ensure that only authorized users and devices are granted access. This way, even if a user’s credentials are compromised, the attacker cannot access other resources on the corporate network.

In this regard, SDP is similar to ZTNA or SASE. Like ZTNA, SDP provides dynamic access to applications and resources, revoking permission in real time if security threats are detected.

However, implementing an SDP system can be complex and resource-intensive. Some enterprises may find incorporating SDP into existing infrastructure challenging, especially if it involves outdated legacy applications.

Furthermore, SDP requires network access, so it may not be ideal for employees working from far locations. SDP is better suited for small- and medium-sized corporations, as its scalability is limited.

Software-defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)

A software-defined wide area network allows an organization to manage its wide area network (WAN) using software rather than hardware.

SD-WAN routes traffic over several network connections, such as broadband, LTE, and MPLS, based on real-time network conditions. This approach helps organizations optimize network performance and reduce the costs of using dedicated MPLS connections.

Intelligent traffic routing is a key feature of SD-WAN. The framework can prioritize critical applications and prevent network congestion without human intervention. This feature also improves network reliability by rerouting traffic during an outage or failure.

Because SD-WAN uses a centralized management interface, companies can configure their entire WAN from a single location. SD-WAN is a cost-effective, flexible, and scalable WAN management solution.

However, no solution is perfect. Implementing an SD-WAN architecture can be complex, and managing it requires specialized skills. Companies may need to invest in staff training or hire external resources. While SD-WAN provides cost benefits in the long run, it requires significant upfront investments.

Compatibility issues are another drawback of SD-WAN. Some legacy applications might need to be updated or replaced. SD-WAN may require specific hardware or software, resulting in vendor lock-in. This can limit flexibility and make it difficult to switch to a different SD-WAN solution in the future.

Lastly, unlike ZTNA or SASE, SD-WAN doesn’t have encryption by default. Each SD-WAN solution has different security features so that the system may introduce new threats.

To mitigate cybersecurity risks, an SD-WAN solution should incorporate access controls, an authentication mechanism, encryption, traffic segmentation, and intrusion detection.

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

Virtual desktop infrastructure, or VDI, allows users to access a virtual desktop environment from any device, anywhere, provided they have an internet connection.

A virtual desktop environment can be hosted on a physical server in a data center or the cloud. It provides users with a complete and customizable desktop experience, including an operating system, applications, and data.

In other words, you can access work resources remotely from any device. Without VDI, you’d have to install the necessary software and download files on every computer you use. This makes VDI an ideal solution for companies with a hybrid work model or employees who travel frequently.

VDI helps organizations implement flexible work policies while managing the virtual desktop environment from a centralized access point. It also provides savings on hardware, software, and maintenance and ensures easy scalability.

VDI may include built-in security solutions such as encryption or an authentication mechanism. However, extra measures may be necessary for organizations dealing with highly sensitive data.

Despite its advantages, VDI has some drawbacks. It relies heavily on network connectivity, making it less effective in areas with poor or unreliable coverage. Latency issues can also affect VDI’s performance, leading to slow response times and reduced productivity.

Additionally, VDI is resource-intensive and might require upgrading your company’s hardware. Some applications may not be compatible with VDI and may require customization or additional software to function properly.

Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP)

Remote desktop protocol, or RDP, is similar to VDI as both allow users to access a remote desktop or server from a local computer or device.

With VDI, each user connects to their virtual desktop, which can be customized to their specific needs. However, with RDP, employees connect to a single remote desktop session shared by multiple users and have a standardized desktop environment. RDP sessions share server resources such as memory, storage, and processing power.

RDP allows IT administrators to manage and maintain company devices centrally, reducing the need for physically accessing and streamlining project collaboration.

RDP was developed by Microsoft and is included in many versions of Windows. However, it is incompatible with Linux or macOS and unsuitable for companies with diverse IT infrastructure.

RDP can pose security risks if not properly configured, risking unauthorized access to company resources. Still, companies can establish a secure connection via RDP with MFA, strong password policies, and network segmentation.

Which Solution Is Best for Your Business?

ZTNA, SASE, SDP, SD-WAN, VDI, and RDP have many similarities but also important distinctions. I’ll break down the best use cases for each solution, but first, let’s discuss the factors that affect which solution is the best for your business.

Factors to Consider

Here are factors that determine which solution best fits your situation:

• Size of your business: This will determine the number of users who need remote access, the amount of data being processed, and the level of IT resources available to manage the solution.
• Type of your business: Different businesses have different security and compliance requirements. For example, healthcare businesses must follow HIPAA regulations, while financial businesses must follow PCI-DSS standards.
• Security needs: The level of security required will depend on the type of data being accessed remotely. For example, businesses dealing with sensitive financial data or personal health information will require higher security.
• Existing network infrastructure: The remote access solution should be compatible with the existing network infrastructure, including hardware and software. The network should also have sufficient bandwidth and reliability to support remote access. An upgrade or complete replacement of existing infrastructure may sometimes be required.
• Device types: The solution should support various device types, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, and be compatible with different operating systems.
• Mobility needs: The solution should accommodate your remote employees’ needs. For example, some employees might only access company resources from their home computers, whereas others constantly change their location. Plus, the solution should support different network connections, such as public Wi-Fi networks and mobile data networks.
• Available IT resources: The solution should be easy to deploy, manage, and maintain with the IT resources available to your business. Certain solutions, like SASE, may be too costly and complex to manage for small businesses.

When to Use Each VPN Alternative

Based on those  factors, here are the best use cases for each solution we’ve discussed:

• ZTNA is best suited for businesses that require a high level of security, particularly those handling sensitive data or regulatory compliance requirements. A financial institution with multiple branch locations is an example.
• SASE is best suited for businesses that need a scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solution. An example is a software development company with a distributed workforce and cloud-based infrastructure. However, businesses with unpredictable data usage should be aware that costs may vary.
• SDP is best suited for businesses that need granular control over employee access to applications and resources. A healthcare organization that must comply with HIPAA regulations is an example.
• SD-WAN is best suited for businesses that interconnect multiple branch locations and require reliable and efficient network performance. A manufacturing plant that relies on real-time data to monitor production lines is an example.
• VDI is for businesses with flexible work models that need centralized employee access management. An example is a call center that allows employees to work from home.
• RDP best suits organizations with Windows devices and basic remote employee access needs. It allows employees to work together on documents, presentations, and other files in real time from different locations.

Could a VPN Actually Be Best?

Although a VPN has limitations compared to more sophisticated solutions like SASE and SD-WAN, it may be the best bet for some organizations.

A VPN is the cheapest, simplest option for small organizations that don’t require the highest level of organization-wide security. It uses less bandwidth than solutions like VDI or SD-WAN and is compatible with most legacy applications.

If your company fits this description, consider our top VPN picks:

1. ExpressVPN: This app earns five stars, with lightning-fast speeds, an independently audited zero-logs policy, and over 94 server locations. Plus, it’s compatible with all major operating systems and device types. It allows 8 simultaneous connections. You can try it out risk-free with a 30-day refund guarantee.
2. Private Internet Access: This provider offers bulk discounts on business subscriptions. It also has built-in malware protection and supports AES-128 encryption for older devices. If you find a better solution, you can claim a refund within 30 days.
3. CyberGhost: CyberGhost lets you connect seven devices simultaneously to specialized high-security servers. It’s a cost-effective app with a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Conclusion

Remote work presents challenges for both businesses and employees. It creates security vulnerabilities in critical systems, requiring new ways to authenticate and manage remote users.

VPN alternatives for businesses streamline user authentication, user activity monitoring, and privileged access management. To keep your internal network secure, consider one of the enterprise VPN alternatives we suggested. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me using the comment box below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Topic: Best VPNs