VPNs have long been the gold standard for connecting the workforce, but their limitations have opened doors for some innovative VPN replacements.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

This article highlights 10 capabilities to look for in a VPN alternative to maintain security, a seamless integration and efficient remote access.

What is a VPN Alternative?

A VPN alternative creates a secure connection between a device and network (or multiple networks) without using a traditional network model or infrastructure.

What is a Traditional VPN?

A traditional VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection or 'tunnel' between a device and a network. These tunnels create a secure connection over what is typically an unsecured network such as home, airport or coffee shop Wi-Fi.

The centralized hub and spoke architecture of some traditional VPNs often creates a single point of failure.

Diagram of hub and spoke architecture of traditional VPNs.

If one spoke is compromised, the entire network could be at risk. From this vulnerability came the need for alternatives with a decentralized infrastructure that prioritizes advanced security protocols, such as:

Zero Trust Architecture: This “never trust, always verify” model ensures every user and device is authenticated before accessing resources.
End-to-End Encryption: Safeguards sensitive data by encrypting it during transmission, reducing the risk of interception.
Access Management: Manages user authentication and authorization, incorporating features like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and role-based access control (RBAC) to enhance security and streamline identity verification processes.

These features help solve for common VPN vulnerabilities like credential theft and unauthorized access.

10 Alternative VPN Essentials

Here are 10 other critical capabilities to look for when researching whether a VPN alternative is right for you or your organization.

Ease of Deployment and Scalability

Traditional VPNs can be complex to deploy and often struggle to scale as organizations grow. An effective alternative should:

Simplify Configuration: Require minimal technical expertise for deployment, enabling quick onboarding of users and devices.
Scale Seamlessly: Support growing user bases and geographic expansion without compromising performance or security.

This is particularly important for small businesses and startups that need secure solutions without the overhead of a dedicated IT team.

Optimized Performance

VPNs are notorious for slowing down connections, especially when handling large amounts of traffic or spanning long distances. A good alternative should prioritize:

Low Latency: Ensure fast and reliable connections to improve user productivity.
Smart Traffic Routing: Use dynamic routing to minimize bottlenecks and optimize network paths.
Bandwidth Efficiency: Reduce unnecessary data transfer, which is especially useful for remote workers accessing cloud applications.

Performance best practices and optimizations help users work efficiently without the frustration of downtime or interruptions.

Device and Platform Compatibility

Remote work environments involve a mix of devices and operating systems. This can include laptops, iphones, androids, IoT devices and field equipment.

For a sprawling setup, the ideal VPN alternative should:

Support Multiple Platforms: Be compatible with most operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux devices.
Enable BYOD Policies: Securely accommodate personal devices without compromising network integrity.
Offer Flexible Access Controls: Allow administrators to manage permissions for each device and user.

Related Customer Success Story: How Finter secured a national traffic camera system's over 4G, with frequent updates.

Flexibility provides secure access across diverse devices without sacrificing the user experience.

Granular Access Control

Legacy VPNs often grant broad access to the entire network. Modern alternatives focus on least-privilege access. These alternatives provide secure fine-grain access control through identity-based access controls. This way, only authorized users can access specific resources.

Just-in-time access granularity can further restrict access to a determined timeframe. This is good for companies that employ seasonal or contract employees.

Other access control features to shop for include:

Application-Level Access: Limit user access to only the resources they need.
Role-Based Permissions: Assign access levels based on user roles to minimize security risks.
Audit Logs: Track access and activity for better visibility and compliance.

Tailscale’s access control methodology follows the least privilege and zero trust principles.

Granular controls not only enhance security but also simplify compliance with data protection regulations.

Seamless User Experience

User adoption is critical for the success of any tech stack tool. Complicated or inconsistent solutions frustrate users, reduce productivity and can add to maintenance costs.

Avoid a negative UX by making sure the alternative provides:

Single Sign-On (SSO): Simplifies login processes by using one set of credentials for multiple applications.
Transparent Operation: Works in the background without requiring constant user intervention.
Intuitive Interface: Offers a user-friendly dashboard for both administrators and end users.

A seamless user experience ensures that security measures are adopted and consistently used.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) leverages a zero-trust approach to secure remote access.

SASE incorporates seamlessly into SIEM solutions. It lets organizations operate securely without exposing their internet traffic to public eyes or hackers.

SASE provides a number of benefits:

Improved security
Reduced security risks
Improved user experience

SASE combines network and security functions together as a single architecture service. This allows for simpler management and operation, lower costs, and increased visibility and security.

Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)

Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) is a networking technology that moves the control and management of data flow from hardware to centralized software.

SD-WAN allows network administrators to write new rules and policies and then configure and deploy them across the entire network at once.

SD-WANs are known for lower cost, higher performance, and greater reliability compared to VPNs.

By embracing the cloud, SD-WANs offer features like quality of service (QoS) and application routing, making them an attractive alternative to traditional VPNs for remote access.

Robust Remote Access for Modern Workflows

Modern workflows demand more than secure network access. Modern remote access solutions prioritize speed and security for dynamic work environments. Support a modern workforce with:

Cloud-Native Applications: Compatible with SaaS tools and cloud environments.
Collaboration Tools: Secure file sharing and team communication.
Global Access: Provide secure connections regardless of location, without geographic restrictions.

Remote access VPNs alone aren't enough for securely managing modern organizational needs and remote resource access. These features are particularly beneficial for freelancers, digital nomads, and globally distributed teams.

Cost-Effectiveness

What good is a solution if you have to pour money in to it down the road to make sure it continues to operate as expected? Find the networking solution you need, and respect the bottom line, when you consider:

Flexible Pricing Models: Options like pay-as-you-go or tiered plans to suit different budgets.
Reduced Maintenance Costs: Minimize the need for ongoing technical support.
Value for Money: Balance affordability with essential features to deliver strong ROI.

User reviews and insights into how many customers renew their subscription or purchase are good indicators of the long-term investment to expect when you migrate to a modern VPN service.

Resilience Against Modern Threats

It's not just AI that is reshaping how technology needs to respond to cybersecurity risks. Your VPN alternative should keep pace with emerging threats by:

Leveraging AI and Machine Learning: Detect and respond to anomalies in real time.
Regularly Update Security Protocols: Adapt to the latest vulnerabilities and attack vectors.
Providing Threat Intelligence: Offer insights into potential risks and proactive mitigation strategies.

These capabilities help future-proof your remote access strategy.