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Understanding the Shift in Cybersecurity

In a recently released survey by Portnox, significant insights have emerged regarding the priorities of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in the evolving landscape of zero trust cybersecurity frameworks. The reported data indicate a substantial uptick in interest and investment towards Network Access Control (NAC) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) as integral parts of a robust security posture. These findings not only spotlight the necessity of these technologies but underscore a transformative shift in the strategies employed by security professionals.

The Rise of NAC in Zero Trust Strategies

The annual Wakefield Research survey, which queried 200 CISOs across the United States, revealed that an astounding 97% of respondents view NAC as a fundamental element within any effective zero trust framework. This aligns with responses from previous years, demonstrating a consistent recognition of NAC's importance. In a time where cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated, the value placed on NAC suggests an urgent need for advanced protections within digital infrastructures.

Perception Shift and Increased Budgeting

The survey findings indicate that 93% of CISOs have reported an enhanced perception of NAC over the past year, leading to budget increases in this area. Specifically, 87% of organizations are planning to allocate greater resources to NAC in 2026—a notable rise from 83% in 2024. Interestingly, the willingness to invest is particularly pronounced among larger enterprises, with nearly 19% of CISOs from companies generating revenues of $1 billion or more expecting a significant budget increase.

This shift reflects a broader understanding of the economic implications of cybersecurity investments, particularly in a landscape where the cost of breaches continues to rise. CISOs are aware that neglecting these critical cybersecurity tools is not an option in today’s digital environment.

Cloud-Based NAC Solutions as Game Changers

One of the driving forces behind this positive perception of NAC is its adaptation to modern technological frameworks, specifically cloud-based solutions. An overwhelming 98% of CISOs attribute their newfound enthusiasm for NAC largely to advancements in cloud technology, which facilitates easier, more efficient implementations of zero trust protocols. Cloud solutions deliver a shorter time to value, enabling organizations to protect their resources rapidly without compromising performance.

In this context, NAC evolves from a historical tool into a vital enforcer of security policies against emergent threats, aligning perfectly with the agility that today’s businesses require.

Moving Away from Legacy Systems

The survey also indicates a significant trend in decommissioning outdated remote access technologies such as traditional VPNs. 67% of organizations expressed intentions to replace their legacy VPN systems within the forthcoming year, while 93% anticipate a complete phase-out by 2027. This transition to modern alternatives, like ZTNA, marks a clear evolution in how security teams are addressing remote access, prioritizing secure and adaptable solutions over outdated technologies.

Denny LeCompte, CEO of Portnox, articulates this transitional narrative: “NAC is no longer just a past control; it now represents a critical connection for zero trust, granting visibility over endpoints while enforcing policy at the access layer.” This insight highlights the innovative shift toward security models that prioritize identity and context, essential for managing today’s hybrid workplaces.

Conclusion

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to unfold, the evidence presented in the Portnox survey reinforces the indispensable role of NAC and ZTNA in establishing a secure operational environment. CISOs are recognizing that a sophisticated approach to security, anchored by dimensional technologies, is essential for safeguarding organizations against future threats. The data from this survey provides a roadmap for continuous improvement and adaptation in the face of evolving cybersecurity challenges, pushing businesses toward proactive security postures that can withstand the test of time.