Moving Beyond VPNs: How Agilicus’ Layer 7 Zero Trust Access Enhances Security
“Traditional network security models are inadequate. While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have been used for secure remote access, they have limitations that can put organizations at risk.”
Introduction
Traditional network security models are inadequate in the constantly changing cybersecurity landscape. While Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have been used for secure remote access, they have limitations that can put organizations at risk. Agilicus has introduced a new Layer 7 approach that operates at the application layer, offering secure Zero Trust access without the drawbacks of VPNs. This article discusses how Agilicus’s method aligns with Zero Trust principles and provides improved security, easier deployment, and better compliance.
Understanding the OSI Model and Where Agilicus Fits
To understand the difference between Agilicus and traditional VPN solutions, it is important to know the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model. This model divides network communication into seven layers.
- Physical Layer (Layer 1)
- Data Link Layer (Layer 2)
- Network Layer (Layer 3)
- Transport Layer (Layer 4)
- Session Layer (Layer 5)
- Presentation Layer (Layer 6)
- Application Layer (Layer 7)
VPNs Operate at Layers 2 and 3
- Network-Level Connection: VPNs primarily function at the Network Layer (Layer 3) and sometimes at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2).
- Broad Network Access: They create a network-level connection between the user’s device and the internal network, often granting broad access.
- Increased Attack Surface: This broad access can inadvertently increase the attack surface, exposing the network to potential threats.
- Use of IPSec Encryption: VPNs commonly use protocols like IPSec at Layer 3 to secure data as it travels across the network
Agilicus Operates at Layer 7 – The Application Layer
- Application-Level Access: Agilicus functions at the Application Layer (Layer 7), the topmost layer of the OSI model.
- Direct Access to Applications: Instead of providing a network tunnel, Agilicus offers secure access directly to specific applications and services.
- No Network Connection Required: Users interact with applications over standard protocols like HTTPS without needing to connect to the underlying network.
- Key Advantage: This approach eliminates unnecessary network exposure, aligning with modern security best practices.
Why Operating at Layer 7 Matters
1. Elimination of Network-Level Access
- Reduced Risk of Lateral Movement: By not providing a network-layer connection, Agilicus ensures users cannot access network infrastructure or other resources beyond their authorization.
- Containment of Threats: This reduces the risk of a malicious actor moving through a network to find valuable data, known as lateral movement.
2. Alignment with Zero Trust Principles
- No Implicit Trust: Zero Trust dictates that no user or device is inherently trusted, regardless of their location.
- Strict Authentication and Authorization: Operating at Layer 7 allows Agilicus to enforce strict verification for each application request.
- Principle of Least Privilege: Users are granted access only to the applications they need, adhering to the principle of least privilege.
3. Reduced Attack Surface
- No Open Ports Required: Without network tunnels or open ports, the attack surface is significantly minimized.
- Outbound-Only Connections: Agilicus uses outbound-only connections, ensuring internal systems are not exposed to unsolicited inbound traffic.
4. Simplified Compliance and Monitoring
- Detailed Logging: Application-layer access allows for granular logging of user activities within specific applications.
- Enhanced Visibility: This granularity aids in meeting compliance requirements and improves the ability to detect and respond to security incidents.
Comparing Agilicus to VPN-Based Solutions
VPN-Based Solutions (Layers 2/3)
- Implicit Trust in Network Access:
- Users often have broader network access than necessary once connected via VPN.
- Contradicts Zero Trust by implicitly trusting users inside the network perimeter.
- Complex Configuration and Management:
- Requires careful setup, including network configurations, firewall adjustments, and client installations.
- Misconfigurations can lead to vulnerabilities and increased operational overhead.
- Potential for Lateral Movement:
- If a VPN user’s credentials are compromised, attackers can navigate through the network to access sensitive systems.
Agilicus AnyX (Layer 7)
- Explicit Trust Through Authentication and Authorization:
- Every request is authenticated and authorized at the application level.
- No implicit trust based on network location.
- No Network-Level Access Granted:
- Users cannot see or interact with the underlying network infrastructure.
- Simplified Deployment:
- No need for VPN clients or changes to network infrastructure.
- Users access applications via a standard web browser.
- Enhanced Security Posture:
- By restricting access to the application layer, Agilicus reduces the risk of network-based attacks.
Why Choose Agilicus?
1. True Zero Trust Implementation
- Alignment with Zero Trust: Agilicus fully embodies Zero Trust principles by not providing network-level access.
- Avoids Over-Privileged Access: Unlike solutions that rely on VPNs, Agilicus doesn’t grant unnecessary access that could be exploited.
2. No VPN Required
- Simplified Access: Agilicus is not a VPN; it doesn’t create a network tunnel.
- Ease of Use: No VPN clients to install, no complex configurations, and no broad network access.
- Accessibility: Users connect via standard web browsers without additional software, simplifying access for employees, contractors, and vendors.
3. Application-Specific Access
- Least Privilege Enforcement: Users are granted access only to specific applications, not the entire network.
- Limited Exposure: This limits potential damage in case of credential compromise.
4. Enhanced Security and Reduced Risk
- Minimized Attack Surface: Operating at Layer 7, Agilicus reduces the network’s exposure to threats.
- Outbound-Only Connections: Prevents exposure of internal systems to the internet.
5. Easier Compliance
- Granular Controls: Application-layer controls and detailed logging make it easier to comply with regulations.
- Improved Visibility: Better visibility into who accessed what and when, aiding in audits and compliance reporting.
6. Seamless Integration with Existing Systems
- Quick Deployment: Agilicus’s stateless, horizontally scalable design allows for rapid deployment without complex configurations.
- Integration with Identity Providers: Seamlessly integrates with both cloud-based and on-premises identity providers, leveraging existing credentials.
Conclusion
Organizations must move beyond traditional VPNs to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. Agilicus’s Layer 7 approach is a superior alternative that aligns with Zero Trust principles. It also reduces the attack surface and simplifies deployment and management. Agilicus provides secure, application-specific access without granting network-level privileges, minimizing risk and enhancing user experience. Embracing Agilicus’s innovative solution means investing in a more secure, efficient, and compliant future for remote access needs.
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Agilicus AnyX Zero Trust enables any user, on any device, secure connectivity to any resource they need—without a client or VPN. Whether that resource is a web application, a programmable logic controller, or a building management system, Agilicus can secure it with multi-factor authentication while keeping the user experience simple with single sign-on.
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