Zero trust is a security strategy. ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access) is a specific technology that applies that strategy to how users reach applications. You cannot buy zero trust as a single product, but ZTNA is one of the main building blocks organizations use to put it into practice.
What is zero trust?
Zero trust is a model in which no user, device or network location is trusted by default. Every access request is verified based on identity, device health and context, and users get only the minimum access they need. NIST’s Special Publication 800-207 is the most widely used reference for zero trust architecture.
A zero trust program spans many areas, including identity and access management, endpoint security, network segmentation, data protection and monitoring.
What is ZTNA?
ZTNA applies zero trust principles to remote and hybrid access. Instead of putting users on the network, as a VPN does, it connects each user to specific applications after checking identity and device posture, and keeps those applications hidden from everyone else.
Zero trust vs ZTNA at a glance
| Zero trust | ZTNA | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A security strategy and set of principles | A technology that enforces those principles for access |
| Scope | Users, devices, networks, applications, data | User and device access to applications |
| Can you buy it? | No, it is built from many controls | Yes, as a product or service |
| Replaces | Perimeter-based security thinking | Remote access VPNs |
Where ZTNA fits in a zero trust program
Replacing VPNs with ZTNA is often the first practical step, because it removes broad network access and an internet-exposed attack surface in one move. For ZTNA to support the wider program, it should use the signals you already have, such as your identity provider and endpoint security tools, rather than creating a separate silo.
Cloudbrink’s High-Performance ZTNA integrates with Microsoft Entra for identity and CrowdStrike for device posture, enforces policy by identity, device and location, and protects every connection with mTLS 1.3 and certificates rotated every eight hours. It was named a Leader and Fast Mover in the 2025 GigaOm ZTNA Radar.