Remote working is no longer the exception – today it is standard in many organizations. However, with flexibility comes a new challenge: how to effectively secure off-site access to corporate resources? Traditional VPNs can’t always keep up with the demands of modern threats. Next-generation solutions, offered by Palo Alto Networks, are changing the rules of the game, introducing comprehensive protection and access control in a distributed environment.
Key findings
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Classic VPNs do not provide sufficient protection in complex, distributed environments.
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Palo Alto Networks combines VPN with traffic analysis, authentication and Zero Trust mechanisms.
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Security can’t limit performance – NGVPN solutions are lightweight and scalable.
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Modern protection covers not only the tunnel, but the entire context of the user and device.
Table of contents
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Why classic VPNs are inadequate
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Evolving approaches to remote access security
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Palo Alto Networks and the next-generation VPN concept
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Examples of applications in companies
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FAQ
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Summary
Why classic VPNs are inadequate
A traditional VPN only protects the connection – it encrypts the traffic and allows the user to access the internal network. The problem is that once logged in, the user often has broad access to resources, regardless of the risk level or security status of his device. In the case of an infected laptop, the VPN even becomes a gateway for attackers.
Evolving approaches to remote access security
Today’s threats require greater flexibility and contextual verification – it is no longer enough for a user to enter a password. What is needed are multi-component authentication mechanisms, device reputation analysis and dynamic security policies. This is the very foundation of the Zero Trust concept – “trust, but always verify.”
Palo Alto Networks and the next-generation VPN concept
Palo Alto Networks is introducing a next-generation VPN (NGVPN) that combines classic encryption with intelligent analysis and access control. Key components of the solution include:
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Real-time traffic inspection – detecting malicious activity even before it reaches corporate resources.
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Access segmentation – users are given access only to essential applications.
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Device verification – the system analyzes whether a device meets security requirements before allowing a connection.
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Integration with MFA and Zero Trust policies – an additional layer of control reduces the effectiveness of phishing and account takeovers.
Examples of applications in companies
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Remote and hybrid teams – secure access to applications without a permanent connection to the internal network.
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Third-party suppliers and partners – limited access only to specific segments of the infrastructure.
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IT administration – granular access policies and full visibility of user traffic.
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Mobile workers – protection regardless of location or device.
FAQ
Is NGVPN replacing classic firewalls?
No. NGVPN integrates with security solutions, enhancing their effectiveness and enabling precise control.
Does NGVPN deployment require major infrastructure changes?
No. Palo Alto Networks’ solutions are scalable and compatible with most existing environments.
Does NGVPN reduce the speed of the connection?
No. Encryption and inspection mechanisms are optimized so as not to affect the user experience.
Summary
In a world where remote working has become the norm, a simple VPN is not enough. Palo Alto Networks proposes a next-generation approach that not only protects the connection, but also analyzes the context, segments access and eliminates threats before they reach the network. It’s a solution that realistically strengthens an organization’s security without hampering users.
