Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are often used to connect to the internet in a safe, encrypted way. They let users connect to remote networks or hide what they do online. But as technology has changed, different options have come up. Here’s a quick look at some of these other options:
Why do we need to switch to alternative VPN solutions?
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are often used for security, privacy, getting around area limits, etc. But in the past few years, there has been more talk about the need to think about VPN options. Here are some reasons why companies and people might look for alternatives to standard VPNs:
Performance Problems: VPNs can sometimes slow down internet speeds because it takes time to protect data and route it through a VPN server.
Complexity and Management: Setting up and keeping VPNs running can be hard, especially for big organizations. Ensuring all workers have access to the necessary tools without compromising security can be hard.
Single Point of Failure: If a VPN server goes down, it could stop all linked users from getting online. Redundancy might be better with systems that are spread out or use a mesh of computers.
Security concerns: VPNs secure data, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be hacked. If a VPN site is hacked, it could reveal much user information.
What is the difference Between ZTNA vs VPN?
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Virtual Private Networks (VPN) are both ways to provide secure access to corporate resources, but they work in different ways and meet other goals.
ZTNA is works on the “never trust, always verify” idea, which means that each request to access resources is independently verified and given permission, often per application.
This detailed method makes it easier to control who can access what and makes it harder for potential hackers to move around the network. The way ZTNA is made is perfect for modern remote workforces. It offers frictionless access based on the user’s context and works better with cloud-based apps.
On the other hand, VPNs let users join to a whole network, and once they’re linked, they can use any service within that network based on their permissions.
VPNs are a solid way to protect data between a user and a network, but their wider access can make it easier to take advantage of weaknesses in an internal network. VPNs require users to start a link manually, and they can be less flexible when meeting modern businesses’ changing access needs.
SSL VPN is a subset that enables secure connections via web browsers without additional software.
It can be deployed through appliances or managed via a firewall.
Best VPN Alternative Solutions
VPN alternatives offer safe, private, and efficient network and resource access instead of standard VPNs.
Identity-based access, network segmentation, and zero-trust principles are at the heart of systems like Zscaler Private Access, Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP), and Zero-Trust Network Access (ZTNA).
They protect users from cyber dangers and ensure safe application connections.
Best VPN Alternative Solutions | Features |
---|---|
1. Perimeter 81 | Secure Network Access Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP) Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) |
2. Tor (The Onion Router) | Access to Blocked Content Hidden Services Traffic Analysis Resistance Onion Routing End-to-End Encryption Traffic Analysis Resistance |
3. ProtonVPN | Encrypted VPN for Secure Browsing. No-Logs Policy for Enhanced Privacy. Wide Server Network for Global Access. Strong Encryption for Data Protection. Secure Core Architecture for Added Security. Tor Integration for anonymity P2P Support for torrenting |
4. NordLayer | Business-focused VPN Solution. Zero Trust Network Access for Enhanced Security. Multi-Cloud Access with Centralized Control. Secure Remote Access to Company resources Encrypted Communication for Data Protection. Scalable and Flexible Solution. User Authentication and Authorization Controls. |
5. Cloudflare Access | Identity-based secure application access. Eliminates the need for VPNs. Integrates with major identity providers. Zero Trust security model implementation. Real-time user authentication and authorization. Supports multi-factor authentication (MFA). Fast and seamless user experience. |
6. I2P (Invisible Internet Project) | Anonymous Network Layer for Secure Communication. Private Browsing with Layered Encryption. Decentralized and Self-Contained Network. Hidden Services for Confidential Websites. Resistant to Surveillance and Traffic Analysis. Protects User Identity and Location. Peer-to-Peer Communication for Privacy. Supports Anonymous File Sharing. |
7. Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN | Integrated Security and Networking Solution. Optimized Connectivity for Distributed Networks. Centralized Management for Streamlined Operations. Zero-Touch Deployment for Easy Setup. Advanced Threat Prevention for Enhanced Security. Application-Aware Routing for Performance Optimization. Scalable Architecture to Accommodate Growth. |
8. Zerotier | Software-Defined Networking for Easy Connectivity. Virtual Networks for Secure Communication Peer-to-Peer Architecture for Direct Connections. Cross-Platform Compatibility. Centralized Management for Network Administration. Encrypted Data Transmission for Privacy. Plug-and-Play Setup for Quick Deployment. |
9. Zscaler Private Access | Cloud-Based Secure Access Solution. Zero Trust Architecture for Enhanced Security. Application-Centric Access Control. Direct-to-Application Connectivity, No VPN Required. Granular Policy Enforcement for Data Protection User Authentication and Multi-Factor authentication Seamless User Experience with Any Device. |
10. Private Internet Access (PIA) | Cloud-Based Secure Access Solution. Zero Trust Architecture for Enhanced Security. Application-Centric Access Control. Direct-to-Application Connectivity, No VPN Required. Granular Policy Enforcement for Data Protection User Authentication and Multi-Factor Authentication. Seamless User Experience with Any Device. |
Best VPN Alternatives in 2023
- Perimeter 81
- Tor (The Onion Router)
- ProtonVPN
- NordVPN
- Cloudflare Access
- I2P (Invisible Internet Project)
- Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN
- Zerotier
- Zscaler Private Access
- Private Internet Access (PIA)
1. Perimeter 81
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Perimeter 81 is a leading VPN alternative service offering a Zero Trust Secure Network as a Service with a Software-Defined Perimeter architecture.
It provides greater network visibility, seamless onboarding, and compatibility with major cloud VPN providers.
Following the SASE model, this solution combines security and network management on one platform, catering to companies of all sizes and industries.
It offers comprehensive network control with features like private servers, team member access management, and a cloud management portal.
Users benefit from single-click apps, bank-level encryption, and Automatic Wi-Fi Security for secure online activities on various devices. Perimeter 81 is the best VPN alternative for Windows, Android, and Mac users.
Features
- Perimeter 81 allows employees to securely access the company’s network and resources from any location.
- Perimeter 81, which adheres to the zero-trust security concept, ensures that people and devices are continuously authenticated and authorized before providing access to sensitive data and resources.
- The platform use SDP technology to provide a secure and invisible network boundary, making it more difficult for unauthorized users to access crucial assets.
- Perimeter 81 uses MFA to add an extra layer of security during the login process, reducing the likelihood of unauthorized access.
Perimeter 81 – Trial / Demo
2. Tor (The Onion Router)

Tor is a Free vpn alternatives and custom browser with open-source technology to protect web anonymity. It grants access to regular and dark web content without registration, data limits, or ads.
While not perfect, it can be effective in concealing browsing tracks. Combining Tor with a VPN enhances protection.
Tor and VPNs share the core principle of hiding your IP address but differ in their processes.
Unlike VPNs, Tor routes data through at least three servers with multiple layers of encryption.
VPNs require login to a server, potentially logging your activities, while Tor separates your identity and website visits, enhancing privacy and making tracking more challenging.
Features
- Tor sends internet traffic through a network of encrypted relays, making it extremely difficult for anyone, including ISPs and governments, to track back to the user.
- Because each request appears to come from a different IP address and location due to the routing through numerous nodes, Tor prevents websites and services from tracking users’ browsing patterns.
- Tor enables users to circumvent internet censorship and gain access to forbidden websites or material in areas where internet access is limited.
- Tor transmits encrypted data between nodes, ensuring the content is secure and protected from interception.
Tor (The Onion Router) – Trial / Demo
3. ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN Alternative Solutions is a VPN service that offers secure connections, multi-hop, and Tor network access.
With a reimagined app interface, it provides a user-friendly experience.
The company’s recent revamp includes access to ProtonMail, a secure email service, making it an excellent value proposition.
ProtonVPN’s Stealth feature adds extra security for users in high-risk countries.
It caters to both experienced and first-time users, with an affordable paid option and an impressive free VPN subscription.
ProtonVPN receives a rare 5-star rating, making it a strong choice for anyone seeking a reliable and feature-rich VPN service.
Features
- ProtonVPN employs AES-256 encryption, one of the most secure encryption protocols available.
- Before connecting to the final destination, this function distributes user traffic across servers in privacy-friendly nations.
- To ensure that user data is never exposed, ProtonVPN offers features such as a kill switch (internet connection disruption if the VPN connection dies) to ensure that it is never disclosed, especially in unsecured or public networks.
- ProtonVPN prevents DNS leaks by ensuring that DNS requests are encrypted and do not reveal the user’s true IP address.
ProtonVPN – Trial / Demo
4. NordLayer

Users can quickly, flexibly, and securely connect to the internet and private networks using the NordLayer VPN, a security solution from NordVPN.
On top of the foundation that NordVPN created, NordLayer VPN is a virtual private network with additional security measures. Connecting to the internet via these encrypted servers protects users from any cyberattacks or threats to privacy.
Since NordLayer VPN allows access to private networks over the public Internet, it is an excellent choice for enterprises and those who work remotely.
NordLayer VPN apps for many platforms make it easy for individuals and enterprises to use them for safer online surfing, quicker resource access, and more anonymous private communication.
Features
- The NordLayer VPN encrypts your internet data to protect your personal information.
- By hiding your IP address, a VPN makes it hard for websites and services to monitor what you do while using the Internet.
- NordLayer VPN is a great option for businesses with remote teams or consumers that require secure remote access to corporate networks and resources.
- The service allows access to several servers worldwide to view prohibited material.
- The VPN may automatically connect when you use a public Wi-Fi network, securing your data even on risky connections.
NordLayer– Trial / Demo
5. Cloudflare Access

Cloudflare Access is an alternative to virtual private networks (VPNs), providing a Zero Trust security strategy.
It protects internal resources without making them accessible through the internet.
It functions as part of a conventional virtual private network (VPN) to verify the identities of users and devices before allowing them access.
Cloudflare can detect and prevent malicious traffic because to its broad network and threat intelligence, which in turn protects apps and resources against exploitation.
This strategy reduces the probability of an attack and improves security, all while preserving the benefits of remote resource access.
Features
- Using the zero-trust security concept, Cloudflare Access restricts access to any and all people and devices, no matter where they are or what network they are on.
- Instead of using a perimeter to restrict access, this system relies on individual users’ identities. By requiring users to verify their identities before gaining access to protected resources, we can lessen the likelihood of security breaches.
- Users can safely access applications anywhere without a conventional virtual private network (VPN). This is especially helpful for geographically dispersed groups working together.
- Businesses can limit app usage depending on a user’s location to avoid access from potentially dangerous places.
Cloudflare Access – Trial / Demo
6. I2P (Invisible Internet Project)
The Invisible Internet Project (I2P) is a Free vpn alternative overlay network that aims to make online communication anonymous and private.
It accomplishes its goal by introducing a second network layer between the user and the destination server, which hides the user’s actual IP address.
I2P uses peer-to-peer encryption and routing over a distributed network of volunteer-operated routers, or “peers,” to make it difficult to track user online activity.
I2P is designed to protect its users’ privacy and anonymity by blocking censorship and traffic analysis.
Anonymous surfing, encrypted communications, and access to hidden services on the dark web demand more privacy.
Features
- I2P was developed with user privacy as its primary focus. To do this, it encrypts data and sends it through a decentralized network of routers, making it difficult to determine the identities of its users and the paths they take online.
- For all internal communications on the I2P network, encryption ensures data privacy passed between users and services.
- I2P functions as an overlay network, meaning it operates on top of the existing Internet. This method improves security by separating I2P data from the rest of the internet’s traffic.
- The I2P network operates through a peer-to-peer system of distributed routers. This setup helps eliminate potential choke spots.
I2P- Trial / Demo
7. Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN

Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN is a network solution incorporating state-of-the-art security measures with SD-WAN technology.
It improves WAN performance by dynamically distributing data across several links, such as MPLS, internet, and cellular, based on current conditions. That’s excellent news for both network performance and user satisfaction.
The advanced security features included in Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN set it apart. Firewall, intrusion, and URL filtering are security features it provides. This protects the network’s data stream from any potential cyberattacks.
The solution’s unified administration and monitoring tools show administrators network health and safety. Preventative actions may help firms adapt to changing network environments and cyber threats.
Features
- The system automatically determines the fastest and most reliable route for data traffic depending on the current state of the network.
- With Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN, mission-critical apps are given top priority and guaranteed sufficient bandwidth and quality of service (QoS) for reliable operation at all times.
- Managing the SD-WAN network from a single location has never been easier than with this solution’s integrated configuration, monitoring, and management dashboard.
- Checkpoint’s threat prevention features scan and filter traffic to protect a network from malicious programs like malware and ransomware.
- Its zero-touch provisioning speeds up the setup process for off-site locations without sending in any IT experts.
Checkpoint Secure SD-WAN – Trial / Demo
8. Zerotier

ZeroTier is a alternative to VPN solutions that provides safe, reliable communication between computers and networks over the public internet. Whatever the users’ locations, it establishes a global LAN-like overlay network.
ZeroTier allows people and devices to communicate as if they were on the same local network, despite being behind many networks and firewalls.
Encrypted data flow, direct peer-to-peer connections, and safe remote access are just some of the advantages that ZeroTier provides because of its end-to-end encryption.
It’s excellent when detached teams or Internet of Things deployments must communicate securely.
Individual device IDs and exact access controls strengthen security. Due to its simplicity and low administrative overhead, ZeroTier is a versatile VPN alternative.
Features
- With ZeroTier’s global virtual network overlay, distributed devices can communicate safely as if they were all connected to the same physical network.
- ZeroTier networks encrypt all communications between nodes, protecting users’ personal information and electronic transactions.
- ZeroTier works on PCs, servers, mobile devices, and Internet of Things devices since it is OS and platform-independent.
- To connect devices that are located behind firewalls or NAT (Network Address Translation) devices, ZeroTier employs methods for doing this.
- ZeroTier employs innovative routing to boost speeds and reduce delays in data transmission.
Zerotier- Trial / Demo
9. Zscaler Private Access

To prevent sensitive internal applications from being accessible via the internet, Zscaler Private Access (ZPA) is a zero-trust network security solution hosted in the cloud.
ZPA assures that users can access applications anywhere while keeping their data safe.
Using a zero-trust architecture, ZPA ensures that every user is authentic before providing access.
It removes the need for a traditional network limit without exposing applications to the public internet by connecting authorized users directly to them.
This method improves security, reduces attack surfaces, and lessens the possibility of data leaks.
Through ZPA, access to applications is granted according to the user’s credentials, the device’s orientation, and other criteria.
Features
- Based on the zero-trust principle, ZPA ensures that only trusted users and devices can access protected resources. This method improves security by not relying only on the boundaries of networks.
- ZPA enables application segmentation, limiting user access to only those services for which they have been granted permission.
- ZPA uses security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA), user identity verification, and device posture evaluation to provide safe access.
- With ZPA, businesses can ensure that only authorized users can access their most sensitive apps and data, thus satisfying regulatory requirements.
Zscaler Private Access– Trial / Demo
10. Private Internet Access (PIA)

Private Internet Access (PIA) is a top VPN service that offers worldwide server access, ensuring enhanced digital privacy.
With unlimited bandwidth and unbreakable security, PIA’s strict no-logs policy and customizable privacy features protect users’ data transparently.
PIA supports unlimited device protection with dedicated apps for various platforms.
Its vast network of servers in 60 countries allows unrestricted access to favorite content from anywhere.
As an open-source VPN, PIA provides a highly secure and transparent service.
The easy setup process, built-in ad blocking, 24/7 customer support, and advanced features like kill switch and split tunneling make it a compelling VPN alternative for Windows, Android, Mac, and more.
Features
- PIA secures user data and communications with AES-256 encryption, preventing eavesdropping and illegal access to internet traffic.
- PIA adheres to a rigorous no-logs policy, meaning they do not collect or store user activity data, enhancing privacy and anonymity.
- PIA has a strict no-logs policy, meaning no user activity data is collected or stored, boosting privacy and anonymity.
- PIA contains an ad and malware blocker, which helps improve the browsing experience and safeguard users from online risks.
Private Internet Access (PIA) – Trial / Demo
Conclusion
In conclusion, new and exciting alternatives to VPNs are rising to meet the challenges of network security and remote access.
The drawbacks of conventional VPNs can be overcome with the help of the above alternatives, which promise improved security, adaptability, and performance.
These technologies offer better, more efficient ways to secure network connections since they are user-centric and follow to zero-trust principles and micro-segmentation.
Investigating these options allows users and businesses to better defend themselves from attackers by conforming to current security concepts, adjusting to new working conditions, and maximizing efficiency.
FAQs
There may be scaling, performance, and security issues with traditional VPNs. Alternatives that offer more adaptable and flexible solutions in line with current security standards and workplace trends can overcome the drawbacks of VPNs.
Modern security best practices align with VPN alternatives since they emphasize identity verification, micro-segmentation, and strict access controls. However, the efficacy of protection varies depending on the solution chosen and how it is implemented.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) alternatives are adaptable and scalable, making them an excellent solution for businesses of all sizes.
Before making a choice, however, you need to determine your organization’s specific needs.
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