How does Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) differ from Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)?

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) provides enhanced security compared to traditional VPNs by implementing a more granular and dynamic approach to access control. In a ZTNA model, users and devices are continuously authenticated and authorized based on various factors such as user behavior, device health, and context, rather than simply relying on a username and password like in traditional VPNs. ZTNA also follows the principle of least privilege, granting access only to specific resources necessary for the user’s role, which minimizes the attack surface and reduces the risk of lateral movement by attackers within the network. Additionally, ZTNA can offer secure access to applications regardless of their location, whether they are hosted on-premises, in the cloud, or are SaaS-based, providing more flexibility and security posture compared to VPNs.