The way in which we work has changed dramatically over the last few years. Our users are more geographically dispersed than ever before with users now connecting from any device, anywhere, to applications based in the cloud, as well as on premises. This dramatic shift in working practices combined with continued migration to cloud environments has left the legacy VPNs we are familiar with struggling to keep up.
The recently concluded 2024 VPN Risk Report, conducted in collaboration with Cybersecurity Insiders, provides a dark portrayal of the current security and networking landscape. Despite the continued dominance of legacy VPNs, it's clear they fall short in many crucial aspects such as security, user experience, and scalability. Let's look at some of the details.
The VPN conundrum
The report brings to light a significant finding. A whopping 96% of organizations continue to rely on legacy VPNs for remote access, underscoring the enduring dependence on this well-established yet inadequate technology. Despite this reliance, it shouldn't come as any surprise that 81% of respondents expressed user dissatisfaction with their VPN experience. Users continue to grapple with issues like sluggish access speeds, frequent disruptions, dropouts, and complex authentication processes.
Compounding these challenges are a large number of looming security concerns, with an overwhelming 92% of respondents expressing apprehensions about VPNs exposing them to risks with 47% of participants identifying ransomware as a top vulnerability, further emphasizing the pressing need for a reevaluation of current remote access solutions.
The future of remote access: beyond VPNs
However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Organizations are beginning to wake up to the limitations of legacy VPNs and are actively seeking better alternatives. Here's what the report reveals:
- 56% of respondents are considering alternatives to traditional VPNs. This is being driven by a desire for better security, improved user experience, and increased flexibility.
- Zero Trust is taking center stage with 75% of organizations prioritizing adopting a Zero Trust strategy, recognizing its potential to address emerging threats and remote work challenges.
- ZTNA is gaining traction with 59% having already adopted or planning to adopt ZTNA within the next 24 months, acknowledging its role in implementing Zero Trust principles and enhancing security.
Embracing ZTNA: replacing and expanding
The report also underscores the significance of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) as a pivotal strategic initiative for businesses. A substantial 78% of respondents express the belief that ZTNA should completely supplant their outdated VPNs, underscoring the imperative for holistic solutions capable of addressing the limitations associated with legacy VPNs. Moreover, an overwhelming 83% of participants say it's important that ZTNA is part of a more expansive Secure Service Edge (SSE) strategy, affirming the recognition of unified platforms as valuable tools for efficiently managing all application access requirements.
What can ZTNA do for you?
The 2024 VPN Risk Report should be seen as a wake-up call for organizations to re-evaluate their remote access approach. It's time to move beyond the limitations of legacy VPNs and embrace technologies like ZTNA. ZTNA offers:
- Enhanced security: Zero Trust principles provide granular control and minimize attack surfaces.
- Improved user experience: Streamlined access and faster connections boost productivity.
- Greater flexibility: ZTNA adapts to hybrid and multi-cloud environments with ease.
- Scalability: Support a growing workforce without compromising performance or security.
Don't let your legacy VPN hold you back
Now is the time to invest in a secure, efficient, and user-friendly solution that will help to empower your remote workforce and future-proof your business. Want to learn more? Read the full 2024 VPN Risk Report.
