Not long ago, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) was the go-to solution for secure business connectivity. It made sense then – employees needed a way to tunnel into the company network when working away from the office. But the workplace has changed dramatically. Cloud services, hybrid working, and ever-evolving cyber threats have rendered traditional VPNs increasingly unfit for purpose.
If you’re searching for the best VPN for business, you’re probably actually looking for something better. This is where Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) – and more specifically, Remote WorkForce ZTNA – comes into play.
This article explains why ZTNA is fast replacing VPNs in business environments, and why Remote WorkForce ZTNA is the right solution for small and mid-sized businesses seeking security that scales.
The Problem with VPNs in Today’s Business Environment
For years, VPNs did a fair job. They enabled encrypted communication between remote users and internal networks. But times have changed, and so have the demands of a secure, modern business.
Some of the common issues with traditional VPNs:
- They grant broad access to the network, heightening the risk of lateral movement in the event of a breach
- Performance often takes a hit, especially with multiple users connected at once
- Lack of fine-grained access controls means it’s all or nothing
- VPNs weren’t designed with remote-first, cloud-native teams in mind
In short, they were built for a world that no longer exists.
What Is Remote WorkForce ZTNA?
Remote WorkForce ZTNA is a purpose-built Zero Trust Network Access solution developed by Private Communications Corp. Unlike VPNs, which assume users are trustworthy once logged in, ZTNA takes a “never trust, always verify” approach. Access isn’t granted based on your location or network – it’s granted based on who you are, the health of your device, and what you actually need to access.
It works by enforcing strict identity checks, evaluating real-time context, and establishing secure micro-tunnels between users and specific applications – rather than exposing the entire network.
ZTNA vs VPN: The Benefits for Business
1. Granular Access Control
Rather than opening up full network access, Remote WorkForce ZTNA limits connections to individual apps or services. So if a breach happens, damage is contained. No roaming through the network. No domino effect.
2. Tailored for Remote and Hybrid Work
ZTNA works flawlessly whether your team is in the office, at home, or travelling. It supports:
- BYOD setups
- Third-party vendors and contractors
- Any device, any location – with real-time verification each time someone tries to connect
This level of flexibility and control is essential in today’s work-from-anywhere culture.
3. Better User Experience, Fewer Headaches
Old-school VPNs are clunky. Connection drops, login issues, and slow response times are par for the course. With ZTNA, users enjoy:
- Seamless access to what they need
- Fewer support tickets
- Faster response across cloud and on-premise apps
It simply works – quietly and efficiently in the background.
4. Built-In Threat Protection
Unlike VPNs, Remote WorkForce ZTNA actively blocks known malware and phishing sources. All traffic is encrypted, monitored, and validated at multiple layers – so threats are stopped before they cause damage.
5. Helps with Compliance
Need to meet GDPR, HIPAA, or ISO 27001 standards? ZTNA makes this easier by offering:
- Detailed access logs
- Clear audit trails
- Role-based controls
- Central management dashboards
This ensures you remain compliant without layering on complexity.
Practical Use Cases
✔ Remote Access Security
Let employees connect safely from wherever they are. No complicated logins. No blanket access. Just clean, secure entry to what they’re allowed to use.
✔ Vendor and Partner Access
Give third-parties limited access to specific systems. In cases like the Giant Tiger breach, a more segmented approach like ZTNA could have avoided widespread data exposure.
✔ Cloud and SaaS Protection
ZTNA secures everything – AWS, Azure, SaaS platforms – without needing dedicated firewall infrastructure. Perfect for businesses mid-way through digital transformation.
✔ Prevent Insider Threats
ZTNA doesn’t stop verifying once you’re in. Behaviour and device posture are monitored continuously, allowing for immediate action if something looks off.
VPN vs Remote WorkForce ZTNA: A Quick Look
| Feature | Traditional VPN | Remote WorkForce ZTNA |
|---|---|---|
| Trust Model | Trust then verify | Never trust, always verify |
| Access | Full network | App-specific |
| Threat Protection | Minimal | Built-in, real-time filtering |
| Remote Work Support | Clunky | Seamless and location-aware |
| Setup Time | Weeks or more | Hours |
| Management | Hardware-heavy | Cloud-native, intuitive |
| Cost Structure | High capex and maintenance | Subscription-based, scalable |
ZTNA doesn’t just replace the VPN – it modernises the whole concept of remote security.
The Business Case: Cutting Costs While Boosting Protection
It’s tempting to assume a VPN is cheaper because of its simplicity. But here’s the kicker: ZTNA often turns out more cost-effective in the long run.
Remote WorkForce ZTNA:
- Removes the need for expensive appliances
- Lowers the risk (and cost) of breaches
- Reduces IT overheads by simplifying management
- Helps with regulatory fines and cyber insurance discounts
It’s less about cutting corners – and more about spending wisely.
A VPN for Business That’s Ready for Today and Tomorrow
If your business still relies on VPNs to manage remote access and security, you’re playing with fire. The nature of work, connectivity, and cyber threats has changed. It’s no longer about protecting the perimeter – it’s about protecting every access point, every device, and every application.
Remote WorkForce ZTNA is the logical next step.
Whether you’re scaling up, shifting to the cloud, or just tired of dealing with the limits of your VPN, now’s the time to make the switch.
Contact our experts today to discuss Private Communications Corp Solutions
👉 https://exertisenterprise.com/private-communications-corp/
