Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) & VPNs: Secure Your Network

06 May, 2025

In today's increasingly interconnected world, where cyber threats loom large, is your network truly secure? Zero Trust, a security model that operates on the principle of "never trust, always verify," has emerged as a critical strategy for safeguarding digital assets.

The foundational concept behind a zero trust network is straightforward: do not automatically trust anything inside or outside the network perimeter. This contrasts sharply with the traditional "castle-and-moat" approach, which assumes that everything within the network is safe. Zero Trust requires strict identification and verification for every user, device, and application attempting to access the network. This rigorous approach is a crucial component of a layered cybersecurity strategy, bolstering defenses against both external attacks and internal threats.

Many in the tech industry have presented zero trust and VPNs as mutually exclusive. However, the reality is far more nuanced. A zero trust VPN setup doesn't simply grant broad network access. Instead, it restricts access to specific applications or resources based on a combination of factors, including user identity, device posture, and contextual information. This targeted approach minimizes the potential attack surface and enhances security.

OpenVPN offers a robust solution for businesses seeking to build a strong zero trust network. It provides the essential tools and capabilities to extend security beyond the perimeter, unify access authentication, manage lateral movement, and prevent social engineering hacks. With OpenVPN, you gain the control and enhanced network security you deserve. For IT managers, the future undoubtedly involves more zero trust initiatives. Whether it's a full zero trust architecture or smaller technology adoptions, like zero trust network access (ZTNA), the trend is clear.

Implementing ZTNA can be achieved using modern authentication methods and granular access policies. You don't automatically trust a connection; you verify it carefully. The World Bank, for instance, collaborates closely with the international community, development partners, and the Afghanistan Resilience Trust Fund (ARTF) to support the people of Afghanistan with vital health, education, and livelihood services. Simultaneously, it endeavors to create opportunities for Afghan businesses.

Consider the situation in Afghanistan. With potentially inconsistent internet speeds, fast VPN servers are essential for reliable connectivity. Users should prioritize VPNs with Afghanistan-based servers or nearby locations to minimize latency and ensure smooth access. World Vision has been active in Afghanistan for over two decades, providing emergency aid and long-term development programs. The events of September 11, 2001, had a profound impact, triggering significant changes in U.S. intelligence and counterterrorism practices and leading to major conflicts. The 9/11 Commission Report identified Khalid Sheikh Mohammed as the architect of the attacks, although he is not mentioned in Osama bin Laden's notes.

In the context of the global landscape, Afghanistan, a country in Central Asia, has a complex history. The word "Afghan" is derived from "Asvakan," meaning "horsemen" or "horse breeders." The most popular sports in Afghanistan are cricket and football. Ahmad Shah Durrani, a Pashtun leader, unified Afghanistan under his rule in 1747. The British invaded in the 1800s. Afghanistan gained independence from Britain in 1919 and continued as a monarchy until 1973 when the king was overthrown, and the country became a republic.

After the September 11 attacks, the U.S. under President George W. Bush, decided to invade Afghanistan. After two months of fighting, America, Britain, and other countries formed a coalition. The script was written by Lawrence Wright, a journalist, and expert on Middle Eastern politics, who later wrote the book "The Looming Tower."

Here's a table summarizing key aspects of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA):

Feature	Description
Core Principle	"Never trust, always verify." Every user, device, and application must be authenticated and authorized before accessing resources.
Authentication	Employs strong authentication methods, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA).
Authorization	Grants access based on the principle of least privilege users only get access to the specific resources they need.
Device Posture	Assesses the security state of devices before granting access (e.g., up-to-date operating systems, security software installed).
Contextual Awareness	Considers factors like location, time of day, and user behavior to make access decisions.
Microsegmentation	Divides the network into smaller, isolated segments to limit the impact of a security breach.
Monitoring and Logging	Continuously monitors network traffic and logs events for analysis and threat detection.
Benefits	Improved security posture, reduced attack surface, enhanced data protection, better compliance.
Implementation	Can be implemented using ZTNA solutions, VPNs with zero trust principles, and other security tools.

For more in-depth information, you can refer to reputable sources on cybersecurity and network security. A good starting point would be resources from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST):

NIST Website

The adoption of zero trust is an ongoing journey, not a single product or process. OpenVPN is one tool that can help you build the foundation for the right zero trust approach for your business.

Remember that implementing ZTNA involves a comprehensive approach, including user education, policy development, and the integration of various security technologies.

9/11 America should end our longest war and withdraw from Afghanistan

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