Today, we will know the difference between VPN and ZTNA. Also, we will discuss what each one of these terms means. So, read on to learn more.
Difference Between VPN and ZTNA
VPN stands for the virtual private network, while ZTNA refers to Zero Trust Network Access. What do they mean? Well, VPN is a technology that helps you to access a private network remotely and ZTNA is a concept that is used in cloud computing. Now, let us know the difference between these two technologies and the concepts.
VPN
VPN creates a secured and encrypted connection by connecting remote users or networks to a centralized network. In other words, it is a technology that allows you to create an encrypted tunnel between your computer and a host server. This tunnel can be used to transmit data across shared or public networks as if it was directly connected to the private network through an Ethernet cable.
Then, the purpose of using this is to allow businesses to share sensitive information across distributed locations. All while protecting confidential data from unauthorized access and eavesdropping.
VPN technology has been around since long ago but it became very popular when people started using the Internet on their smartphones and tablets. Because of this popularity, many vendors offer VPN services. You can install VPN software on your device to connect over a secure wireless connection. Or use browser extensions for your mobile browser or desktop browsers.
As mentioned earlier, VPN creates a secure and encrypted connection between computers across public networks. However, the level of security provided by these VPNs depends on their service provider as they use different encryption technologies like TLS and PPTP.
ZTNA
ZTNA allows organizations to keep sensitive data secure and in compliance with their security policies, whether on-premises or in the cloud. It is a concept that can be used to build a Zero Trust network architecture.
ZTNA architecture has three main components:
1) Trusted Network Domain (TND). A TND is a network where an organization’s data resides. This network is also known as an IT estate. All users and applications reside in this network. Then, the TND is administered by a centralized IT team and all users are required to conform to departmental security policies set by the IT team.
2) Untrusted Network Domain (UND). This is a network that contains all servers, devices, and users that have access to TND but not to each other’s resources. The responsibility of administering this network lies with IT, administrators.
3) Zero Knowledge Proofing. This refers to making sure that all traffic between the UND and TND passes through a gateway device known as Zero-Knowledge Proofing System (ZKP). Then, this gateway ensures that only authorized traffic can pass through.
Should You Use Both?
In conclusion, if your company relies on cloud storage, you need to learn about ZTNA. Because it will help you protect your data from hackers. Although VPN is also a great technology that provides security to your information, it might not be suitable for your company if you use cloud storage.
This is because ZTNA helps you to keep all your sensitive data secure in the cloud. However, if you don’t use the cloud, then VPN can protect your information from unauthorized access.