ZTNA Solutions fundamental function is to grant users authorized access to resources and apps based on their identification and device rather than their physical location or network.
Granular access controls, rigorous authentication, and continuous monitoring are all features of the best ZTNA solutions that uphold the least privilege principle and lessen security risks.
In contrast to conventional methods, ZTNA operates on the tenet of “never trust, always verify,” requiring meticulous authentication and authorization of each access request.
This restricts access to restricted resources within and beyond the corporate network to just those people and devices with the proper authorization.
Table of Contents
What is ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access)?
Critical Components of Zero Trust Network Access
How Do We Choose the Best ZTNA Solutions?
Best Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Solutions Features
10 Best ZTNA Solutions in 2024
1. Perimeter 81
2. Zscaler
3. Cisco
4. Fortinet
5. Cloudflare
6. Akamai
7. Palo Alto Networks
8. Forcepoint
9. Cato Networks
10. Twingate
Conclusion
What is ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access)?
The Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution is a novel cybersecurity strategy developed to increase data security by introducing robust access controls and authentication methods.
ZTNA follows the policy of “never trust, always verify,” in contrast to the more common practice of “trust but verify.”
No matter the user’s location or the network’s environment, ZTNA, or Zero Trust Network Access, is a security framework that focuses on granting secure access to resources and applications.
Organizations can provide secure access based on need-to-know by implementing ZTNA, preventing unwanted access, and reducing the effect of compromised credentials or devices.
Critical Components of Zero Trust Network Access:
Identity-Based Access Control: Users must verify their identities before being granted access. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is commonly used to increase safety in this way.
Application-Centric Approach: Instead of providing unrestricted access to the entire network, ZTNA prioritizes the safety of individual applications and resources.
Software-Defined Perimeters (SDP): ZTNA frequently employs SDP to establish virtual Parameters around designated resources. The SDP effectively generates a “black box” effect by isolating the protected resources in this manner.
Single Sign-On (SSO) Integration: Single Sign-On (SSO) systems are frequently integrated with ZTNA solutions to facilitate easy user authentication and management without compromising security.
API-Driven Architecture: ZTNA solutions often use application programming interfaces (APIs) to link with existing security and identity management systems, allowing for a smooth and scalable rollout.
How Do We Choose the Best ZTNA Solutions?
We have strongly considered the following features to choose the best ZTNA solutions to meet the customer’s needs.
We check if the product has robust identity verification, encryption, micro-segmentation, and most minor privilege enforcement, all essential security features.
We focused more on the solution that must be scalable to accommodate your organization’s increasing number of users, gadgets, and software.
To Avoid creating unnecessary friction between users and software, we verify the user Interface and Flow to ensure the users pick the right choice.
Assessing how effectively the ZTNA solution integrates with your current authentication mechanisms and information technology infrastructure is essential.
Verify the solution’s compatibility with a wide range of applications, including both modern and older ones. Select a service with low latency and excellent performance, especially for people located in remote areas.
We Ensure the zero trust network access solution complies with all applicable laws and standards in the business world and check out the vendor’s credibility, dependability, and financial stability.
Think about the long-term investment and price structure. Check the help and support users receive before, during, and after deployment.
Best Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Solutions Features
| Best ZTNA Solutions | Features |
|---|---|
| 1. Perimeter 81 | Zero Trust Network Access Software-Defined Perimeters Single Sign-On Integration Multi-Factor Authentication Cloud Management Platform Global Private Network |
| 2. Zscaler | Secure Access Service Edge Architecture SSL Inspection and Decryption Web Content Filtering Cloud Application Control Bandwidth Control and Traffic Shaping Secure Private Access for Remote Users |
| 3. Cisco | Network visibility and auditing Least privilege access control Context-aware access policies Integration with existing security infrastructure Secure access for third-party partners/vendors Support for hybrid and multi-cloud environments. |
| 4. Fortinet | Threat Intelligence and Analytics Secure Web Gateway Secure Email Gateway Sandboxing and Advanced Threat Protection Security Operations and Automation |
| 5. Cloudflare | Content Delivery Network Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Protection Web Application Firewall Argo Smart Routing Bots Management |
| 6. Akamai | Cloud Security Solutions API Security Mobile App Performance Optimization Real User Monitoring (RUM) Video Delivery and Streaming |
| 7. Palo Alto Networks | Panorama Management Application Visibility and Control Multi-Factor Authentication File and Data Loss Prevention Intrusion Prevention System |
| 8. Forcepoint | Remote Browser Isolation Next-Generation Firewall Cloud Application Visibility Cloud Access Security Broker User and Entity Behavior Analytics |
| 9. Cato Networks | Encrypted Traffic Inspection Network Optimization Secure Mobile Access Anomaly Detection Cloud-Native Secure Web Proxy |
| 10. Twingate | Zero Trust Architecture Software-Defined Perimeter User and Device Authentication Centralized Management Identity Provider Integration |
10 Best ZTNA Solutions in 2024
- Perimeter 81
- Zscaler
- Cisco
- Fortinet
- Cloudflare
- Akamai
- Palo Alto Networks
- Forcepoint
- Cato Networks
- Twingate
1. Perimeter 81
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Year Founded: 2018
Location: Isreal
Funding: Raised a total of $165M in funding over 6 rounds
What They Do: A security platform called Perimeter 81 provides a robust ZTNA solution for defending cloud settings, networks, and software applications.
It provides secure remote access, user group administration, and an enterprise-grade VPN. Access to public VPN networks, WiFi security, two-factor authentication, and contact with identity suppliers are further features.
It offers a unified administration platform, private servers with dedicated IP addresses for separate teams, and inbound and outgoing traffic encryption.
Along with IP configuration capabilities, it delivers HIPAA compliance, financial data protection, and a multi-tenant cloud. Perimeter 81 offers a multitude of features for different security requirements.
Features
- With Perimeter 81, employees can easily connect from anywhere to business networks and clouds.
- Zero Trust security checks people and devices before letting them use platform resources.
- MFA is used to protect Perimeter 81.
- In Perimeter 81, SDP is used to micro-segment and separate user and device networks.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Good? |
|---|---|
| Secure Remote Access | Internet Dependency |
| Cloud-Based Infrastructure | Limited Offline Access |
| User-Friendly Interface | Integration Complexity |
| Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) | Ongoing Subscription Costs |
Perimeter 81 – Trial / Demo
2. Zscaler
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Year Founded: 2007
Location: San Jose, California, United States
The goal of the Zscaler ZTNA solution is to establish secure, lightning-fast internet and software as a service (SaaS) access using a comprehensive cloud-native security service edge (SSE) architecture.
The cloud-based sandbox, intrusion prevention system (IPS), data loss prevention (DLP), bandwidth control, browser isolation, cloud access security broker (CASB), and firewall are all part of ZIA infrastructure.
By moving security and access controls to the cloud, ZIA can ensure consistent policy enforcement and protection regardless of the location of the connection, be it the main office, a branch, or even a remote site.
Features
- Zscaler’s SWG inspects and filters traffic in real time to keep users safe from malware, scams, and dangerous websites.
- To keep the network safe, Zscaler’s cloud firewall limits both incoming and outgoing data based on safety regulations.
- To protect the network, Zscaler’s cloud firewall limits both incoming and outgoing data based on security standards.
- Zscaler’s CASB feature lets businesses keep an eye on how cloud services are used, find instances of data leakage, comply, and lower cloud risks.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Cloud-based Security | Internet Dependency |
| Global Coverage | Single Point of Failure |
| Scalability | Privacy Concerns |
| Unified Security Platform | Cost |
Zscaler – Trial / Demo
3. Cisco
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Year Founded: 10 December 1984
Location: San Jose, California, United States
Purpose: Cisco is a leading provider of security solutions, as well as solutions for remote and hybrid work. Any deployment model, including cloud, on-premises, and hybrid, can use SD-Access.
The ZTNA solution known as Software-Defined Access (SD-Access) makes it possible for security and IT teams to establish rules for access for hybrid and remote workers.
It includes analytics for endpoint behavior, frequent reviews of security posture, stringent device verification, and access limits based on roles.
Although it might be a pain to implement at first, it’s often considered to be a top ZTNA solution for bigger and medium-sized businesses, especially those who use Cisco security products.
Duo Remote Access is the way to go for small and medium-sized businesses looking for Cisco portfolio integration. Some of the best ZTNA vendors and providers are Cisco.
Features
- Computer networks are made up of routers, switches, and access points, all of which are made by Cisco.
- It provides a wide range of cyber security goods and services.
- Cisco collaboration tools make it easier for businesses to talk to each other.
- It helps businesses safely set up, run, and grow their cloud infrastructure and apps.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Connecting and managing wireless networks. | Software Updates |
| Global Presence | Complexity |
| Comprehensive Product Portfolio | Vendor Lock-In |
| Security measures for networks. |
Cisco – Trial / Demo
4. Fortinet
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Year Founded: 2000
Location: Sunnyvale, California, United States
Fortinet simplifies network security stacks without investing in new discoveries, making them a cost-effective choice for organizations.
The product line from Fortinet is an all-inclusive solution that can be extended with other products to cover feature sets that aren’t available in Fortinet’s core capabilities right out of the box.
Features
- FortiGate firewalls from Fortinet stop threats, control apps, stop intrusions, check SSL, and offer VPN.
- Fortinet device security event logs are gathered and analyzed by FortiAnalyzer.
- It makes security control easier by letting administrators set up and keep an eye on all Fortinet devices from one place.
- A security solution that works on one gadget and has many features.
- An powerful firewall has features like controlling applications, stopping intrusions, and checking SSL connections.
- Software-defined wide-area networking (SD-WAN) systems are made more secure and connected.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Security Solutions | Vendor Lock-In |
| FortiGate Firewall | Complexity |
| Security Fabric | Software Updates and Licensing |
| Threat Intelligence |
Fortinet – Trial / Demo
5. Cloudflare
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Year Founded: 27 September 2010
Location: San Francisco, California, United States
The cybersecurity firm behind Cloudflare provides Cloudflare Access, a solution for Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), as their service.
Secure remote access to on-premises, public cloud, and software as a service applications is made possible. Based on their roles, administrators can establish granular access controls and integrate with different identity providers.
Integrating with endpoint protection providers is an option, and device verification guarantees access. With Cloudflare Access, you can keep tabs on user actions with detailed logging.
To provide rapid connections and scalability, it employs a distributed edge network. Cloudflare and other identity provider integrations are highly praised for their reliability.
On the other hand, deployment may necessitate technical expertise and could be time-consuming. Companies with competent IT departments are more suited to implement Cloudflare Access.
Features
- The global content delivery network (CDN) from Cloudflare stores and serves website content from the closest data center. This cuts down on latency and page load times.
- Websites and apps stay up and running during large-scale attacks thanks to this safety.
- A lot of threats on the OWASP list of the top include can’t get through.
- SSL/TLS certificates and HTTPS encryption from Cloudflare keep interactions between servers and browsers safe.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Content Delivery Network (CDN) | Data Privacy Concerns |
| Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Protection | Service Dependency |
| Web Security Features | Configuration Complexity |
| Global Network Presence | Limited Customization |
Cloudflare – Trial / Demo
6. Akamai
Year Founded: 1998
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Akamai Technologies is a cybersecurity company that makes the best Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution.
Their ZTNA product, Enterprise Application Access, provides distant users with safe access to the enterprise network through cloud computing.
It provides application-specific access controls, real-time activity analysis, integrations with identity providers, and multi-factor authentication.
The system is easy to deploy, scalable, and integrates well with third-party security solutions, LDAP, Active Directory, and SIEM logs.
For both big and small businesses, one of the greatest ZTNA solutions is Akamai’s Enterprise Application Access. One of the best places to buy ZTNA is from them.
Features
- Akamai’s global content delivery network (CDN) caches and serves movies, apps, and online content from computers close to users.
- This cuts down on latency and speeds things up.
- This web application acceleration tool dynamic caching and image optimization make online apps run faster and better.
- It protects against all types of DDoS attacks, stopping large-scale ones and keeping websites and apps running.
- Akamai’s WAF checks and screens HTTP/HTTPS requests to find and stop malicious traffic and keep online apps safe.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Global Network Presence | Data Privacy Concerns |
| Content Delivery Network (CDN) Capabilities | Complexity |
| Scalability | Dependency on Service Provider |
| Web Performance Optimization |
Akamai – Trial / Demo
7. Palo Alto Networks
Year Founded:2005
Location: Santa Clara, California, United States
Their work: Palo Alto is well-known as a pioneer in the field, and they offer a wide variety of products. For big businesses that have a variety of on-premise and SaaS needs, they are a great substitute.
Among Palo Alto’s emerging solutions is DNS Security, which employs URL filtering powered by Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify and thwart zero-day internet threats.
Features
- The NGFW from Palo Alto Networks checks encrypted data and offers controls based on roles for users, application-aware security, intrusion prevention, and SSL decryption.
- It uses antivirus, anti-spyware, URL filtering, and DNS protection to keep you safe from malware and other risks.
- The cloud-based WildFire threat analysis service from Palo Alto Networks finds and studies malware that is unknown or hard to stop in real time.
- Palo Alto Networks’ URL filtering stops dangerous or inappropriate websites based on tag categories, URLs, and user limits.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| SaaS Security | Mobile endpoint and agent update issues |
| Advanced URL Filtering | Panorama for centralized management requires customer deployment and hosting |
| Cloud Identity Engine |
Palo Alto Networks – Trial / Demo
8. Forcepoint
Year Founded:1994
Location: Austin, Texas, United States
Tasks performed:Forcepoint, the industry-leading Zero Trust platform, prioritizes openness and the safety of user data.
Businesses who are interested in learning more about the data that customers and applications are accessing and how they are using it should consider this service as a great alternative.
Companies choose Forcepoint because they are the industry leaders when it comes to user and application behavior context.
Features
- Malware, phishing, and dangerous websites can’t get through Forcepoint online protection.
- These solutions stop leaks of important business data.
- Forcepoint’s CASB feature lets you see and manage cloud apps and services to keep your data safe and in line with regulations.
- To identify and prevent insider threats, Forcepoint’s insider threat security solutions watch what users do and flag any behavior that seems odd.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Security Suite | Complexity for Small Businesses |
| Advanced Threat Detection | Integration Challenges |
| Unified Management Console | Learning Curve |
| Cloud-Based Solutions |
Forcepoint – Trial / Demo
9. Cato Networks
Year Founded: January 2015
Location: Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
For businesses who have a small IT department or don’t need a solution that can be installed on their premises, Cato Networks is a great option.
The provider efficiently takes on new locations and offers managed services. Being one of the first full-SASE systems, Cato Networks draws in early adopters.
Being cloud-based, it enables quick implementation with minimum involvement from customers.
Features
- The safe SD-WAN system from Cato Networks improves network speed and connects branch offices.
- Cato Networks’ cloud security includes internet safety, firewall protection, and a safe web gateway.
- The next-generation firewall on this network’s SASE technology controls applications, stops intrusions, and checks SSL.
- Zero-trust security is used on this network to make sure that people and devices are who they say they are before they can access company resources.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Integrated SD-WAN and Security | Feature Set Customization |
| Cloud-Native Architecture | Dependency on Cloud Connectivity |
| Global Network Presence | Limited Hardware Options |
| Security as a Service (SECaaS) |
Cato Networks – Trial / Demo
10. Twingate
Year Founded: 2019
Location: Redwood City, California
What they do: Twingate provides dispersed workforces with secure access to company resources using a cloud-based remote access ZTNA solution.
It allows for centralized management of user and device access by providing a software-defined boundary that does not require external hardware.
The Twingate app provides easy access to all of the company’s apps.
ViPR technology makes it possible to automate routing and permission decisions, and the platform supports split tunneling for robust connections.
Among the many things that administrators can do is learn about network access, create user access controls, and communicate with identity suppliers.
The reliability, scalability, and ease of use of Twingate have earned it widespread renown. Small and medium-sized businesses should utilize it if they want a secure, user-friendly remote access solution.
Features
- Before giving resources to people or devices, Twingate uses zero-trust security to check and confirm that they are who they say they are.
- It’s a service that lives in the cloud and protects resources without the need for hardware on-premises.
- It lets mobile and remote users safely access company resources from anywhere, making sure users have a good time and feel safe.
- Twingate helps businesses separate their networks and control who can access what resources based on their jobs and permissions.
- This makes things safer and less vulnerable to attacks.
| What is Good? | What Could Be Better? |
|---|---|
| Enhanced Security | Learning Curve |
| Simplified Remote Access | Dependency on Internet Connectivity |
| User-Friendly Experience | Limited Offline Access |
| Centralized Management |
Twingate – Trial / Demo
Conclusion
In conclusion, as cybersecurity has changed over time, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) options have become a powerful way to handle things.
The best ZTNA solutions combine strict access rules, user-centered authentication, and constant monitoring to create a dynamic and safe network environment.
By moving away from standard perimeter-based security models, these solutions improve security, lower attack surfaces, and give users a smooth experience in a world where threats are constantly changing.