Organizations have to make well-informed decisions regarding secure remote access needs with quick-changing business scenarios. With the increase of remote work and the need to prevent cyberattacks, businesses are exploring various solutions to ensure their operations remain efficient and secure. This article reviews and makes some comparisons and contrasts between Zscaler VDI alternatives and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI).
Access with Zscaler Privilege Remote Access and Zscaler Browser Access
Zscaler Privilege Remote Access (PRA) and Zscaler Browser Access (BA) offer simplified connectivity solutions by enabling SSH, RDP, VNC, and HTTPS connections to private applications without requiring software installation on user devices. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals such as external consultants who need access to only a few resources on a non-company managed device.
For instance, an external consultant might only need access to an Operational Technology (OT) application for a few days to complete a project. In such cases, the installation of additional software on the consultant's device might not be feasible or desirable, making Zscaler Remote Access and Zscaler Browser Access ideal solutions.
The general Zscaler approach is to align its products with the zero trust principles, where users are granted access only if their identity is verified and the user only gets access to the needed resources. PRA and BA also follow the zero trust principles. Additionally, Zscaler provides other security features such as browser isolation and data loss prevention, further enhancing the security of remote access.
Features of Browser Access
Zscaler Browser Access provides connectivity to internal web applications. Organizations can use their own Identity Provider (IdP) or onboard their partners' IdP. The user authenticates to the IdP and can access the web applications as long as the session is active. It is also possible to require periodic reauthentication, adding an extra layer of security.
Features of Privilege Remote Access
Zscaler Privilege Remote Access is used when users need access to resources such as a jump host via SSH, RDP, or VNC. The access policy can be temporary, making it a suitable solution for external employees who only need access to the server for a few days or weeks. PRA also includes capabilities to record sessions and control clipboard or file transfer activities, enhancing security and auditing capabilities.
Understanding the Complexity of Virtual Desktop Infrastructure
Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) can be a more expensive and complex solution compared to alternatives like PRA and BA. The initial startup costs are significant, requiring the purchase and deployment of multiple components before provisioning the first virtual desktop. This includes servers, storage, networking equipment, and software licenses. Additionally, VDI environments tend to complicate troubleshooting efforts, further increasing operational complexities.
VDI environments can present several operational challenges. For instance, managing and maintaining the infrastructure requires specialized knowledge and skills. IT teams must ensure that the VDI environment is always available, secure, and performing optimally. This can be a daunting task, especially for organizations with limited IT resources.
Cost Implications: Zscaler Solutions vs. VDI
When evaluating the cost implications, Zscaler solutions generally offer a more cost-effective approach compared to VDI. Zscaler eliminates the need for significant hardware and software purchases and the complexity involved in their operations, consequently ensuring substantial cost savings. The cost-effectiveness of Zscaler solutions increases with existing IdP support and the elimination of client software requirements. For example, the need for an Office 365 license and other software to use and secure the VDI is eliminated since those will be managed by the external partner.. You can compare the cost of the VDI solution to Zscaler there.
In contrast, VDI requires a substantial investment in infrastructure and ongoing maintenance, making it a pricier, but more powerful, option. Businesses must weigh these costs against the specific needs and use cases of their organization. While VDI can provide a fully functional desktop environment, the associated costs and complexities might not be justifiable for all organizations.
Use Case: Secure Remote Access for Financial Auditors
Scenario
A large financial institution, FinanceCorp, regularly undergoes audits to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and to maintain the integrity of its financial operations. These audits are conducted by external auditors who need temporary access to sensitive financial data and internal applications. Given the confidential nature of the information, FinanceCorp must ensure that remote access is secure and does not compromise its internal network.
Challenge
The primary challenge for FinanceCorp is to provide secure remote access to external auditors. The few financial auditors only need access to a few Intranet websites while working on the audit. FinanceCorp has decided to use Zscaler Browser Access, because it is cheaper and less complicated while providing the neccessary protection for the confidential documents. Additionally the IT department of FinanceCorp does not have the ressources to support and manage additional devices. Due to legal obligations the auditors rotate frequently, making the managing of the external access for complicated.
Implementation
FinanceCorp begins by integrating Zscaler Browser Access (BA) into its existing IT infrastructure. The IT team configures the Identity Provider (IdP) to authenticate external auditors and sets up access policies based on audit requirements. Auditors receive instructions on how to access the financial applications through their web browsers, ensuring a smooth onboarding process.
Outcome
With Zscaler solutions in place, FinanceCorp successfully provides secure remote access to external auditors without compromising its internal network. The auditors can efficiently complete their audits, accessing the necessary applications directly through their browsers. FinanceCorp benefits from enhanced security, cost savings, and simplified management of remote access.
Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business Needs
Choosing the right solution is important for your business requirements. Zscaler solutions are a good fit if users require limited applications like web browsers, SSH, RDP, and VNC, and installing and managing additional software on user devices is not an option. Zscaler's approach simplifies remote access while ensuring robust security measures are in place.
On the other hand, if your use cases require a fully functional desktop environment, VDI might be an appropriate, albeit more expensive, option. VDI can provide a consistent and controlled desktop experience for users, which can be beneficial for organizations with specific application requirements or regulatory compliance needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Zscaler solutions and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure have their unique advantages and challenges. Organizations must carefully evaluate their specific needs, budget constraints, and security requirements to make an informed decision. Zscaler's PRA and BA offer a cost-effective and secure solution for remote access, particularly for users with limited application needs.
In contrast, VDI provides a comprehensive desktop environment but comes with higher costs and operational complexities. By understanding the features and implications of each solution, businesses can choose the one that best aligns with their goals and requirements.
