SSL VPN has been a reliable way for businesses to let remote employees securely access internal networks. It encrypts traffic and creates a secure tunnel between a user’s device and a company network. For years, it was the go-to technology for “road warriors” working outside the office. But that era is coming to an end.
What’s happening with SSL VPN?
SSL VPN (Secure Sockets Layer Virtual Private Network) technology is being retired in favour of modern approaches with more secure access. Legacy VPN solutions, including many SSL-based products, are being actively phased out by vendors such as Fortinet, Cisco and Palo Alto Networks. The shift reflects broader changes in how businesses work – with more cloud apps, distributed teams, and mobile access – and greater expectations for security.
Why is SSL VPN being retired?
Traditional VPNs were designed in a world where the network perimeter was clearly defined: on-premises servers, offices with firewalls, and users connecting occasionally from outside. Today’s environment looks very different. Users need secure access to a mix of cloud services, SaaS apps and internal tools, often from unmanaged locations.
SSL VPNs still provide encrypted access to network resources, but they do so at a broad level. Once connected, a user can see large parts of the internal network. That “full tunnel” approach increases risk, especially if a device is compromised.
The new standard: SASE and Zero Trust Access.
The emerging replacement for traditional VPN is a combination of security frameworks and technologies often grouped under Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). SASE blends network and security services delivered from the cloud. A core principle is Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), where trust isn’t automatically granted just because someone has connected to the network.
Unlike SSL VPN, SASE-based solutions authenticate at the application level. Instead of giving broad network access, they grant specific access to approved apps or services, and only after verifying the user’s identity. This reduces the “blast radius” if a credential or device is compromised.
How SASE and ZTNA differ from SSL VPN:
- Access Scope:
• SSL VPN: Full network access once connected.
• SASE/ZTNA: Application-specific access based on policy. - Security Model:
• SSL VPN: Assumes trust after connection.
• SASE/ZTNA: Continually verifies identity, device and context. - Performance:
• SSL VPN: Traffic often backhauled to central datacentres.
• SASE: Cloud delivery points optimise routing and can improve latency. - Management:
• SSL VPN: Often hardware-centric and on-premises.
• SASE: Cloud-managed with unified visibility.
If your business is still using VPN:
Now is the time to review your remote access strategy.
Businesses still relying on SSL VPN should start planning a transition:
- Inventory Remote Access Use: Understand who uses VPN, what they access and why.
- Evaluate Zero Trust Options: Look at solutions that provide application-level access and contextual security.
- Plan Migration: Set a timeline aligned with vendor end-of-life announcements for your current VPN products.
- Test and Pilot: Trial modern access technologies with a small group before broad rollout.
- Train Staff: Ensure users understand how access changes and why stronger security matters.
SSL VPN is no longer a long-term strategy, even if it still works today.
The retirement of SSL VPN marks a shift in how secure access is delivered. Traditional VPNs served businesses well in the past, but changing work patterns and security threats have exposed their limitations. Emerging technologies like SASE and Zero Trust reflect a more modern approach. For businesses still using legacy VPN, now is the moment to plan a thoughtful transition to stay secure, agile and future-ready.
FAQs
Is all VPN technology based on SSL?
No. VPN is a broad term. Some VPNs use SSL, while others use technologies like IPsec, which are not affected by the retirement of SSL VPN.
Will working from home still be possible without SSL VPN?
Yes. Modern remote access solutions (such as SASE & ZTNA) are designed specifically for hybrid and remote work. In many cases, they provide faster access.
What about IPsec VPN?
IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) VPN is not being retired and remains supported, but it is increasingly used as a transitional or site-to-site solution rather than a long-term remote access strategy.
Why are vendors pushing SASE and Zero Trust as alternatives?
These models limit access to specific applications rather than full networks, improving security, performance and control for remote and hybrid workforces.
Which vendors are retiring SSL VPN, and when?
Major vendors including Fortinet, Cisco, Palo Alto Networks and others are reducing support or planning end-of-life for SSL VPN features, with many changes expected over the next 12–24 months depending on product and licence.
Is the retirement of SSL VPN driven by security issues?
SSL VPN has been a frequent target in recent security breaches including multiple high-profile incidents. Vendors are redirecting investment toward cloud-delivered access platforms.
What happens if we keep using SSL VPN after it’s retired?
End-of-life products typically stop receiving security updates and support, increasing cyber risk and potentially impacting compliance and cyber insurance.
Is VPN being discontinued altogether?
No. VPN itself is not disappearing, but older types of VPN, including SSL VPN, are being phased out. The way remote access is delivered is changing to newer, more secure models that suit cloud-based work.