Entra Private/Internet Access
A Viable Alternative to ZScaler?

Amid the increasing complexities of today’s digital threats, where businesses are increasingly relying on cloud services and remote work, secure access to applications and data is critical. The need for streamlined, identity-driven network security has never been greater, as companies face evolving cyber threats. Microsoft is stepping up to meet this challenge, offering Microsoft Entra Private and Internet Access—solutions designed to reshape the Secure Service Edge (SSE) market. But how do they compare to established players like Zscaler?

Let’s explore the key features of both Microsoft and Zscaler’s products and uncover why more businesses may be considering a shift from Zscaler to Microsoft Entra.

So, how does it work?

Entra Private and Internet Access Overview

Microsoft Entra Private Access

Entra Private Access is Microsoft’s Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution designed for secure connections to private apps, regardless of the user’s location. Key features include:

• Identity-centric access control
• Tight integration with Conditional Access policies
• Support for MFA, device compliance checks, and identity governance
• Access to TCP/UDP-based applications, like SSH, SAP, and SMB, without altering those apps
• Deep integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, such as Azure Active Directory (AD)

Microsoft Entra Internet Access

Entra Internet Access functions as a Secure Web Gateway (SWG) for all internet traffic and SaaS applications, particularly Microsoft 365. Key features include:

• Threat protection for unsafe internet traffic
• Conditional Access integration based on identity and network conditions
• Universal Tenant Restrictions to block data exfiltration from Microsoft 365 apps
• Seamless, identity-centric security across all devices and networks

Feature Comparison: Entra vs. Zscaler

Why Businesses Might Opt to Move from Zscaler to Entra

1. Tighter Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: If your business already uses Microsoft 365, Azure, or Azure AD, Microsoft Entra offers seamless integration. With features like Conditional Access, MFA, and tenant restrictions, managing security across your Microsoft assets becomes easier compared to Zscaler, which requires more configuration to achieve the same depth of integration.
2. Unified Identity and Network Controls: Microsoft Entra unifies identity and network access policies, reducing the complexity of managing separate systems for identity and network security. Businesses that prefer a single platform for identity and access management will benefit from this approach, whereas Zscaler requires integration with external identity platforms.
3. Cost Efficiency: Many businesses find the cost of Microsoft solutions more favorable because Microsoft Entra is included in bundles like Microsoft 365 E5, making it an attractive alternative to Zscaler’s premium services, which come with separate pricing for each layer of security.
4. Zero Trust Security: Both platforms are built on Zero Trust principles, but Microsoft’s deep focus on identity-driven security makes it particularly suited for organizations that want granular control over user access based on real-time risk assessment.
5. Future-proofing: Microsoft has made significant investments in its security products. With Entra Internet Access and Private Access still in their early stages but rapidly developing, organizations may see a long-term advantage in adopting a platform that integrates tightly with the broader Microsoft Security ecosystem.

So should I consider using Internet and Private Access for my business?

For businesses already leveraging the Microsoft ecosystem or looking to enhance their Zero Trust security strategy, adopting Microsoft Entra Private and Internet Access provides a streamlined, integrated approach to securing both internal and external applications. With simplified policy management, solid threat protection, and a cost-effective solution if you bundle it with your existing Microsoft licenses. With all of this to offer, Microsoft is becoming a formidable contender in the SSE market.

If you are ready to simplify your security landscape and explore the benefits of Microsoft Entra? Contact us now to learn how we can help you transition from Zscaler to Microsoft’s network access solutions.