DirectAccess was Microsoft’s earlier remote access solution. It also offered automatic, always-on connectivity but had known scalability and flexibility issues. Microsoft now recommends Always On VPN as its replacement.

Bottom line: If you’re still using DirectAccess, Always On VPN or another modern solution is the recommended move.

OpenVPN is a widely used open-source VPN solution. It’s designed for flexibility and cross-platform compatibility.

Comparison

• Deployment: Always On VPN is native to Windows but requires deep integration with AD and certificates. OpenVPN is easier to deploy across Windows, macOS, Linux, and mobile.

• Security: Both are secure. Always On VPN benefits from Windows integration and policy control, while OpenVPN’s open-source model allows external auditing and customization.

• Performance: Always On VPN (with IKEv2) often outperforms OpenVPN on Windows. However, OpenVPN works well when you need to support multiple device types.

Bottom line: Choose Always On VPN for Windows-centric networks. Choose OpenVPN for mixed-device environments or when you want open-source flexibility.

Why Look Beyond VPNs?

Traditional VPNs create a single secure tunnel between the user and the network. While it works, it has weaknesses:

• Users gain broad access, which can increase risk.

• Performance drops due to data backhauling.

• Complex management for IT teams.

Modern work needs faster, safer, and easier solutions.

1. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

How it works: Instead of connecting you to the whole network, ZTNA connects you only to the apps you need. Access is based on your identity, device, and location.

Why it’s better:

• No full network exposure.

• Built-in support for multi-factor authentication.

• Lower risk of lateral movement attacks.

2. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

How it works: SASE combines networking and security in the cloud. It gives users secure access to apps and data from anywhere, using one platform.

Why it’s better:

• Low latency with global cloud points of presence.

• Integrated threat protection and data security.

• Ideal for remote and hybrid teams.

3. Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP)

How it works: SDP hides your infrastructure completely. Only authorized devices and users can even see your apps.

Why it’s better:

• Prevents unauthorized scanning or discovery of your network.

• More control over who sees and connects to resources.

4. Application-Specific Gateways

How it works: Instead of giving access to the network, these tools let users connect directly to specific applications.

Why it’s better:

• Simple and focused: users only see the apps they need.

• No VPN client software required in most cases.

If your goal is secure remote access without VPN headaches, consider ZTNA, SASE, SDP, or app-specific gateways. They reduce risk, are easier to manage, and are designed for today’s hybrid workforce.

Best Alternatives to Always On VPN

If Always On VPN doesn’t meet your needs, here’s what to look for in an alternative:

1. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

ZTNA connects users to applications instead of the whole network. It uses identity and context (device type, location) to grant access, reducing the attack surface.

2. Cross-Platform Support

For mixed environments (Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android), consider solutions like OpenVPN or commercial cloud-based VPNs that support all OS types.

3. Always-On Capability Without Complexity

Modern solutions like SASE-based remote access or managed VPNs can provide seamless connections without the complex AD and certificate requirements of Always On VPN.

4. Performance & Scalability

Choose providers with global points of presence (POP) or edge gateways to keep latency low for remote users.

Quick Decision Guide

• If you currently use DirectAccess → move to Always On VPN or a Zero Trust alternative.

• If you run a Windows-only environment → Always On VPN is good, but consider ZTNA if you want simpler management.

• If you support multiple operating systems → choose OpenVPN or a cloud-based VPN solution.

• If you want to avoid VPN complexity entirely → choose a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) solution. 

Still unsure which solution to choose? Use this VPN comparison tool to compare features and pricing side by side.

Migration Tips: Moving From Always On VPN or DirectAccess to Alternatives

• Plan in phases: Test with a small group before full rollout.

• Run systems in parallel: Keep the old VPN active until the new solution is proven stable.

• Communicate with users: Clear instructions reduce support calls.

Audit and remove old access: Once complete, retire old VPN servers to reduce security risks.

Always On VPN improves on Microsoft’s older DirectAccess, but it’s not the only option. OpenVPN offers flexible, cross-platform access, while Zero Trust solutions provide even more granular, identity-based security.

Choosing the right solution depends on your environment:

• Windows-only networks → Always On VPN or ZTNA.

• Mixed-device teams → OpenVPN or a managed VPN.

• Modern security goals → Zero Trust solutions.

Take time to map your user needs, security requirements, and IT capacity before choosing. A well-fitted remote access solution keeps your workforce secure and productive without unnecessary complexity.

1. What is the best alternative to Always On VPN?

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is one of the best alternatives. It allows secure, identity-based access to apps without connecting users to the full network, reducing security risks and improving performance.

2. Is Always On VPN better than DirectAccess?

Yes, Always On VPN offers better compatibility with cloud and mobile devices compared to DirectAccess, which is limited to domain-joined Windows clients. However, both still use traditional VPN models, which is why many organizations move to ZTNA or SASE.

3. Why replace traditional VPNs?

Traditional VPNs often slow down connections, expose the network to potential attacks, and require complex management. Modern alternatives focus on app-level access, better security, and cloud-native performance.

4. What is ZTNA?

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a security framework that gives users access only to specific applications they need, based on identity and context. Unlike VPNs, it never exposes the full network, making it more secure.

5. Can I migrate from Always On VPN without downtime?

Yes. Many IT teams run the old VPN and the new solution in parallel during the migration phase, moving users in batches to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.

6. Do VPN alternatives work for hybrid or remote teams?

Yes. Most VPN alternatives are designed for remote and hybrid workforces. They provide secure access to apps and data from anywhere, often with lower latency and easier device support.

7. Are VPN alternatives more expensive?

Not necessarily. Many cloud-based alternatives remove the need for physical hardware and complex management, often lowering total costs over time.