What is a Software Defined Perimeter (SDP)? | Zscaler

SDP Use Cases

While SDP has many use cases, many organizations choose to start in one of the following four areas:

Finding a VPN Alternative

Organizations are looking to reduce or eliminate usage of VPNs because they hamper user experience, introduce security risk, and are difficult to manage. SDPs directly address these notorious VPN issues by improving remote access capability. In fact, Cybersecurity Insiders says that 41% of organizations are looking to reevaluate their secure access infrastructure and consider SDP, with the majority of those requiring a hybrid IT deployment and a quarter implementing SaaS.

Securing Multicloud Access

Many organizations leverage a multicloud model by, for example, combining Workday and Microsoft 365 as well as infrastructure services from AWS and Azure. They may also use a cloud platform for development, cloud storage, and more. The need to secure these environments leads organizations to SDP because of their ability to secure connections based on policy, no matter where users connect from or where applications are hosted.

Reducing Third-Party Risk

Most third-party users receive overprivileged access, which creates a security gap for the enterprise. SDPs significantly reduce third-party risk by ensuring external users never gain access to the network and that authorized users only have access to applications they’re permitted to use.

Accelerating M&A Integration

With traditional mergers and acquisitions, IT integration can span years as organizations converge networks and deal with overlapping IP addresses—incredibly complex processes. An SDP simplifies the process, slashing the time required to ensure a successful M&A and providing immediate value to the business.