Introduction
Fortinet has officially announced the end of support for SSL VPN on select devices. For years, SSL VPNs have been a go-to option for businesses that needed a quick, browser-based way to connect remote workers. But with support being phased out, the question becomes: what now? Most organizations will need to transition to more modern and secure options like IPsec VPN or even Zero Trust solutions.
As someone who has worked with countless businesses during similar transitions, I want to break down the real differences between SSL VPN and IPsec VPN—and why this change matters for you.
Why SSL VPN Worked (and Why It’s Being Retired)
SSL VPN had one big advantage: simplicity. Employees could log in through a web browser and access what they needed without complicated setups. For small teams with limited IT resources, this was a lifesaver.
But there were problems:
- SSL/TLS vulnerabilities made it a popular target for hackers.
- Performance often lagged, especially at scale.
- Security features weren’t as robust as other options.
With cyberattacks growing in frequency and sophistication, SSL VPN just doesn’t cut it anymore. Fortinet’s decision reflects that reality.
Why IPsec VPN Is the Standard Today
Unlike SSL VPN, IPsec VPN encrypts all network traffic at the IP level. This makes it much harder for attackers to find a way in and provides stronger, more reliable security.
Here’s why organizations prefer IPsec:
- Stronger encryption: AES-256 and other modern standards.
- Scalability: Handles heavy traffic loads without the performance drops SSL VPN users often saw.
- Compatibility: Supported natively by most enterprise systems and devices.
Simply put, IPsec is built for businesses that need to scale securely.
SSL VPN vs. IPsec VPN at a Glance
| Feature | SSL VPN | IPsec VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Protocol | SSL/TLS (application layer) | IPsec (network layer) |
| Ease of Access | Browser-based, simple setup | Requires VPN client configuration |
| Performance | Best for small teams | Scales well for enterprise traffic |
| Security | Dependent on TLS implementation | Strong encryption, fewer exploits |
| Best For | Contractors, ad-hoc access | Ongoing, large-scale remote work |
What You Should Do Next
If you’re using SSL VPN today, here’s a practical roadmap:
- Audit your current usage: Who’s using SSL VPN and for what?
- Plan your migration: Transition to IPsec VPN or explore Zero Trust options.
- Check your hardware: Some older FortiGate models may need upgrades.
- Get help if needed: Managed security services can make the transition smoother and less disruptive.
Final Thoughts
This change may feel like an inconvenience, but it’s also an opportunity. SSL VPN was built for a different era of remote access. Today’s businesses need something stronger. Moving to IPsec—or even more modern models like Zero Trust—gives you the security foundation to grow without constantly worrying about vulnerabilities.
If you’re unsure how to start, that’s where a trusted partner comes in. At BALANCED+, we’ve guided businesses through these migrations before. We can help you assess your current setup, design a transition plan, and implement it with minimal disruption.
Next step: Don’t wait until SSL VPN becomes a liability. Reach out today for a consultation and let’s make sure your business is secure for the future.
