Zero Trust Network Access gives users access to specific private applications based on verified identity and device, rather than putting them on the network. It follows the principle "never trust, always verify" — every session is checked, access is least-privilege, and the apps themselves are hidden from the public internet. It's a modern, more secure way to provide remote and internal access than a traditional VPN.

A VPN connects a user to the network and largely trusts them once they're in — so they can often reach far more than they need, and a compromised account can move laterally. ZTNA grants access only to named apps, verifies identity and device continuously, and keeps everything else invisible. The result is a much smaller attack surface, usually with better performance for remote users. We also cover business VPNs separately, and can help you compare the two.

ZTNA is one component of the broader SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) and SSE (Security Service Edge) models, which deliver networking and security from the cloud. SSE typically bundles ZTNA with a secure web gateway and CASB. You can adopt ZTNA on its own and add the rest later, or buy a full SASE/SSE platform up front — we help you decide which makes sense for your size and roadmap.

Agent-based ZTNA uses a lightweight client on the device, which enables device-posture checks and supports more app types — ideal for managed employee laptops. Agentless ZTNA provides access through a browser with nothing to install — ideal for contractors, third parties and unmanaged or BYOD devices accessing web apps. Many organisations use both: agents for staff, agentless for external users.

It can help. By enforcing least-privilege access, strong identity verification and detailed access logs, ZTNA supports the access-control and auditability expectations under the DPDP Act and CERT-In — useful for protecting personal data and demonstrating control. Because it's internal corporate access tied to your identity, it differs from public consumer VPN services that carry their own logging directions. Pricing is typically per user per month, varying with tier and whether you add SASE modules. Figures here are illustrative, and this is general guidance, not legal advice — confirm specifics with the vendor and your advisors.