In today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, the traditional methods organizations use to secure remote access, such as managing their own client VPN infrastructure, are becoming increasingly inadequate. Recent vulnerabilities in major VPN vendors have underscored the urgent need for a strategic overhaul in how we think about and manage network security. At iON, we believe that the shift towards Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Enterprise Browsers is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in our approach to cybersecurity.
Risks of Traditional VPNs
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have been a cornerstone of enterprise security strategies, enabling secure remote access to organizational resources. However, recent high-profile vulnerabilities have exposed significant flaws. These vulnerabilities not only create entry points for cyberattacks but also introduce severe operational disruptions. Managing VPN infrastructure and patching firewalls has become a complex and risky task, with the potential for exposure growing every day.
As VPN infrastructure ages and the complexity of cyber threats increases, the resource allocation required to maintain and secure VPNs is no longer justifiable, especially when superior approaches are available. This is particularly pertinent in light of the shift to remote work, which has expanded the threat surface dramatically and diversified the types of threats organizations face.
The Shift to SASE
Secure Access Service Edge, or SASE, represents a transformative approach to network architecture, combining comprehensive WAN capabilities with cloud-native security functions. This model converges networking and security into a single, unified framework, delivered globally as a service. It addresses multiple aspects of the organization’s security needs, from secure web gateways and firewall-as-a-service to zero trust network access and cloud access security brokers.
The adoption of SASE not only mitigates the risks associated with traditional VPNs but also enhances performance, reduces complexity, and scales security in a way that traditional methods cannot. By moving security from the data center to the cloud, SASE aligns with the modern, dynamic business environment where users, systems, and applications are decentralized.
Role of Enterprise Browsers
Enterprise Browsers are emerging as a pivotal technology in the shift away from traditional VPNs. These browsers are specifically designed for use within a business context, providing robust security features that standard browsers do not. They help in isolating browsing activity from the local machine and the network, effectively containing potential threats.
Enterprise Browsers can enforce security policies at the user level, offering an additional layer of security by preventing phishing, malware, and data breaches. They integrate seamlessly with other cloud-based security solutions, offering a holistic approach to securing all forms of web-based interactions within an organization. The shift to Enterprise Browsers is also accelerating as customers are looking for alternative solutions for VDI.
Why Change Now?
The adoption of SASE and Enterprise Browsers is not just about embracing new technologies but about shifting our mindset to a user- and access-centric model, with the vendors themselves responsible for managing the availability and security of the underlying infrastructure. This transition is critical in an era where the boundaries of the traditional office have dissolved, and securing data requires a more agile and adaptable approach.
At iON, we are committed to guiding our clients through this transition. Our expertise in implementing SASE and deploying Enterprise Browsers enables organizations to navigate this change smoothly and securely. By adopting these technologies, organizations can protect themselves against the vulnerabilities of outdated systems and align their security strategies with the demands of modern business practices.
In conclusion, the recent vulnerabilities found in traditional VPN solutions are a clear sign that the time for change is now. As we move forward, adopting SASE and Enterprise Browsers will not only enhance security but also provide a strategic advantage in the digital era. This will help to not only safeguard your assets, but to empower your business in the face of evolving cyber threats. For those ready to take the next steps in their cybersecurity journey, iON is here to provide expertise and support.
Author: Alon Zvi Goldberg, iON’s Chief Technology Officer
