Relying on a corporate VPN to secure your network is no longer just outdated—it’s dangerous. For years, organisations have relied on VPNs to connect remote workers and secure internal applications. But as cyber threats evolve, so must your defenses.
Let’s explore why traditional VPNs are putting your business at risk and how modern Security Service Edge (SSE) solutions can safeguard your future.
Check out our video of our CTO Cameron Fairbairn discussing this topic as well!
VPNs often operate on outdated protocols like IPsec or PPTP. Worse, many rely solely on usernames and passwords for authentication. This makes it alarmingly easy for attackers to gain access—a stolen credential can grant them entry to your entire corporate network, your applications, and your data stores. For more on how attackers exploit weak credentials, read our recent article on Ransomware Threat Intelligence
Most VPN setups lack adequate segmentation, meaning once a threat actor gains access, they can move freely across the network. With no identity-based controls past the initial breach point, your sensitive applications and data are vulnerable.
VPNs rely on the “castle and moat” strategy, assuming everything inside the network is safe. In reality, today’s threat actors exploit this model with ease, and once your defences have been breached the bad actor can establish C2 controls and execute their strategy.
Organisations that continue to use VPNs without additional controls are playing a dangerous game. Even with network segmentation, the reliance on static controls rather than dynamic identity-based policies leaves your systems exposed. Cybersecurity in 2025 demands a modern approach—and that means retiring your VPN.
SSE solutions like Cloudflare for Teams and Microsoft Secure Access leverage user identity to control application access. This ensures that only the right users, with the right permissions, can access your sensitive data.
Unlike VPNs, SSE solutions don’t trust anyone by default. Access is granted dynamically based on factors like device compliance, location, and user risk score.
For small businesses, solutions like Cloudflare for Teams are free for up to 50 users. Larger organisations can integrate SSE solutions seamlessly into their existing infrastructure, often with minimal cost. If you’re a Microsoft licence holder, it’s a small additional fee on top of what you already have with your E3 or E5 licensing.
Switching to SSE delivers immediate advantages:
Implementing SSE is simpler than you think. Start by identifying the applications you want to secure and setting up an identity portal. With solutions like Microsoft Secure Access, you can register your apps and configure secure access appliances in no time.
To make the transition seamless, we offer a Modern Security Architecture Framework Assessment. This comprehensive review evaluates your current controls and aligns them with best practices for 2025. Whether you’re tackling shadow IT, preparing for cloud applications, or enabling a secure remote workforce, we’ve got you covered.
Cyber threats won’t wait for you to catch up. Transitioning to an SSE solution is one of the smartest moves you can make to secure your organisation. Learn more about our services or contact us to schedule your assessment and take the first step toward a more secure future.
Identity is the new firewall—make sure your organisation is protected.