SDP Vs VPN: What Are the Key Differences in Secure Remote Access

SDP vs VPN serve different purposes, depending on your business connectivity and security needs.  

With the rise of remote work and increasing cyber threats, organisations need to carefully consider their security solutions. This brings us to the comparison of SDP vs VPN, two technologies that serve the purpose of securing access to networks and applications but do so in fundamentally different ways.

This blog will show you the fundamental differences between SDP vs VPN and explain why adopting SDP is essential for contemporary organisations looking to bolster their security posture.

Understanding VPNs

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have long been a staple in remote access solutions. They create a secure connection over the internet, allowing users to access private networks remotely.  

VPNs work by encrypting a user's internet traffic and routing it through a secure server, making it appear as if the user is accessing the internet from the server's location, which is especially useful for remote workers who need to connect to company resources securely.

The primary benefits of VPNs include enhanced privacy and the ability to bypass geographical restrictions.  

However, the reliance on VPNs comes with its set of challenges. Traditional VPNs operate on a perimeter-based security model, meaning that once users are authenticated, they typically have broad access to the entire network. This can lead to serious security risks, as any compromise of a user’s credentials could grant attackers unrestricted access to sensitive data.  

Furthermore, traditional VPNs often struggle with performance issues when the number of users increases, leading to connectivity problems that can delay productivity.

Understanding Software Defined Perimeter (SDP)

In contrast, a Software Defined Perimeter (SDP) takes a different approach to security. Rather than creating a blanket security layer for the entire network, SDP focuses on securing individual applications and resources through a Zero Trust model. This means that every access request is authenticated and authorised based on user identity, device health and contextual factors.

SDP allows organisations to create micro-segments around applications, ensuring that users can only access the specific resources necessary for their roles. This not only enhances security but also limits the attack surface, reducing the risk of unauthorised access.

Key Differences Between SDP and VPN

Architecture:

VPN: Utilises a perimeter-based architecture where users connect to the entire network.

SDP: Employs a Zero Trust architecture, focusing on securing individual applications rather than the network as a whole.

Security Approach:

VPN: Generally, offers a static level of security based on encryption but may leave vulnerabilities when users gain broad access.

SDP: Continuously verifies user identity and context, ensuring dynamic access controls tailored to specific resources.

Access Control:

VPN: Users often have unrestricted access to the entire network upon connection, which can pose security risks.

SDP: Implements granular access controls that limit users to only the resources they need, enhancing security.

Performance and Scalability:

VPN: Can experience performance issues as more users connect, especially if the infrastructure is not optimally configured.

SDP: Designed for scalability, allowing organisations to adapt their security measures based on evolving needs and user demands.

Use Cases: When to Use SDP vs VPN

When considering SDP or VPN, organisations should evaluate their specific needs. VPNs may be suitable for smaller businesses with limited remote access needs. However, for larger organisations with a significant remote workforce, critical applications or heightened security concerns, adopting an SDP approach may be more beneficial.

SDP vs VPN: The Conclusion

In the ongoing debate of SDP vs VPN, it’s clear that the traditional VPN model may no longer be enough with new threats that are more complex and harder to battle with.  

By implementing a Software Defined Perimeter technology, organisations can enhance their security posture, implement granular access controls and effectively manage remote access to critical applications.

At Connected Networks, we specialise in helping businesses transition to modern security solutions like SDP. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in enhancing your security strategy and ensuring secure access to your resources.