Cloud-Based VPN Replacement
Quimpo, James Alexander Fuentespina (2024)
2024
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024103127147
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2024103127147
Tiivistelmä
As a result of the rapid expansion of companies and the rise in the number of employees working from home or remotely, having a strong global presence and reliable VPN infrastructure is essential. This is crucial to ensure that employees can access internal resources without any disruption, thereby supporting the needs of their customers effectively. However, the lack of visibility into end-user traffic can present challenges for operations support teams when addressing issues related to user VPN connections. The objective of this project was to identify an appropriate solution that can accommodate the company's rapid growth, be adaptable to changes, and align with a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) approach to enhance cloud security. Additionally, the solution should incorporate enhanced features for end-user traffic monitoring.
To assess potential solutions, a preliminary selection process was conducted, and an evaluation criteria table was developed by the project team. This table facilitated the comparison of solutions in terms of cost, proof-of-concept, technical workshops, troubleshooting tools, and credibility. After evaluating the initial results based on specific criteria, Company ABZ chose to proceed with Vendor1, as it had already demonstrated positive outcomes before the completion of the proof-of-concept and troubleshooting tools assessment. The evaluation of the remaining criteria for Vendor1 also yielded positive results. Upon consolidating and validating all the results, Vendor1 advanced to the implementation stage.
The implementation process faced certain challenges; however, they were successfully resolved, and the project was finished within the designated timeframe.
Following the successful implementation and current utilization of the solution by Company ABZ, it has been determined that the offering from Vendor1 has been well-received. The outcome has enhanced the overall user experience because of its user-friendly interface and increased accessibility, particularly with the inclusion of multiple VPN gateways accessible in various regions worldwide. The enhanced user experience was particularly beneficial for individuals working remotely and abroad. It also led to a decrease in operational costs for the team responsible for the service, as the technical aspects of the service were simplified. Furthermore, the vendor now oversees the main infrastructure, resulting in a reduced workload for company ABZ's operations team.
As this VPN solution operates in the cloud, there is potential for additional security enhancements to be developed and integrated in the future. This will bolster security measures and safeguard the company's assets and users from cyber threats. Vendor1 provides various services aligned with ZTNA, a direction that Company ABZ plans to pursue. While these service enhancements are currently available, but inactive, they can be addressed later as part of service improvement discussions.
To assess potential solutions, a preliminary selection process was conducted, and an evaluation criteria table was developed by the project team. This table facilitated the comparison of solutions in terms of cost, proof-of-concept, technical workshops, troubleshooting tools, and credibility. After evaluating the initial results based on specific criteria, Company ABZ chose to proceed with Vendor1, as it had already demonstrated positive outcomes before the completion of the proof-of-concept and troubleshooting tools assessment. The evaluation of the remaining criteria for Vendor1 also yielded positive results. Upon consolidating and validating all the results, Vendor1 advanced to the implementation stage.
The implementation process faced certain challenges; however, they were successfully resolved, and the project was finished within the designated timeframe.
Following the successful implementation and current utilization of the solution by Company ABZ, it has been determined that the offering from Vendor1 has been well-received. The outcome has enhanced the overall user experience because of its user-friendly interface and increased accessibility, particularly with the inclusion of multiple VPN gateways accessible in various regions worldwide. The enhanced user experience was particularly beneficial for individuals working remotely and abroad. It also led to a decrease in operational costs for the team responsible for the service, as the technical aspects of the service were simplified. Furthermore, the vendor now oversees the main infrastructure, resulting in a reduced workload for company ABZ's operations team.
As this VPN solution operates in the cloud, there is potential for additional security enhancements to be developed and integrated in the future. This will bolster security measures and safeguard the company's assets and users from cyber threats. Vendor1 provides various services aligned with ZTNA, a direction that Company ABZ plans to pursue. While these service enhancements are currently available, but inactive, they can be addressed later as part of service improvement discussions.