VPN Replacement refers to the shift away from legacy Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) toward more secure, granular, and scalable access technologies such as Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) or Secure Remote Access (SRA). Traditional VPNs provide encrypted tunnels to internal networks, but once connected, users often have broad access, making VPNs difficult to manage securely in modern hybrid, cloud, or OT environments
Replacing VPNs with modern secure access solutions enables organizations to enforce least privilege, application-level controls, and continuous authentication without exposing the network layer.VPNs are increasingly considered a legacy access method, built for a time before remote work, cloud adoption, and sophisticated cyber threats became the norm. VPNs lack granular access control, often rely on static credentials, and offer little to no visibility into user actions once connected. If a VPN-connected user device is compromised, attackers can easily move laterally within the network.
In critical environments such as industrial control systems (ICS), OT networks, and regulated sectors, VPNs create unacceptable risk. VPN replacement is a key step in modernizing cybersecurity posture and meeting standards like IEC 62443, NIS2, NERC CIP, and TSA SD02E, which call for auditable, identity-based, and application-specific access.
Xona replaces traditional VPNs with a zero-trust, protocol-isolated access platform that enables users to reach critical systems through a browser-based session, without network connectivity or VPN tunnels. Users authenticate through existing identity providers, access is enforced via role- and time-based policies, and all sessions are recorded and monitored for security and compliance.
By removing the need for VPNs, Xona reduces attack surface, eliminates lateral movement risks, and accelerates secure vendor and remote access workflows. It's a purpose-built solution for securing the modern hybrid workforce and critical infrastructure access.