Ivanti Connect Secure vs SafeShell VPN: 2025 Comparison

As remote work and secure access solutions continue to evolve in 2025, many organizations are reassessing their virtual private network (VPN) providers. Ivanti Connect Secure (formerly Pulse Secure) has long been a staple in enterprise environments, but recent developments have prompted many users to explore alternatives. With increasing concerns about security vulnerabilities, performance issues, and user experience, is Ivanti Connect Secure still the right choice for your organization?

Understanding Ivanti Connect Secure in 2025

Ivanti Connect Secure is an enterprise-grade VPN solution designed primarily for corporate environments. It provides secure remote access to company resources, applications, and networks. The platform offers features such as:

• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) capabilities
• Multi-factor authentication
• Endpoint compliance checking
• Role-based access controls
• Integration with existing enterprise infrastructure

While Ivanti Connect Secure continues to serve many large organizations, it's worth noting that the solution has faced some challenges. Several security vulnerabilities have been reported in recent years, requiring diligent patching and updates. Additionally, some users report that the platform can be complex to configure and maintain, potentially increasing IT overhead.

The Emerging Alternative: SafeShell VPN

Among the alternatives gaining traction in 2025 is SafeShell VPN, which has established itself as a versatile option that bridges the gap between enterprise security needs and consumer-friendly usability. Originally known for its streaming capabilities, SafeShell has expanded its feature set to address business requirements while maintaining its reputation for speed and reliability.

Key Features of SafeShell VPN

SafeShell VPN offers several compelling features that make it worth considering:

1. Ultra-Fast Connection Speeds : SafeShell's proprietary infrastructure delivers exceptional performance with minimal latency, crucial for video conferencing and real-time collaboration tools.
2. Top-Level Security : The platform's "ShellGuard" VPN protocol ensures enterprise-grade encryption and security for sensitive business communications.
3. Multi-Device Support : Connect up to five devices simultaneously across various operating systems including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and more.
4. User-Friendly Interface : Unlike some enterprise solutions that prioritize features over usability, SafeShell maintains an intuitive interface that requires minimal training.
5. Flexible Deployment Options : SafeShell can be implemented as a standalone solution or integrated with existing security infrastructure.

Performance Comparison: Ivanti Connect Secure vs. SafeShell VPN

When evaluating VPN solutions, performance is a critical factor. Here's how these two options compare:

One network administrator at a mid-sized financial services firm noted, "We initially deployed Ivanti Connect Secure, but found ourselves struggling with performance issues during peak usage times. After switching to SafeShell VPN, our help desk tickets related to VPN connectivity dropped by nearly 70%."

This perspective isn't universal, however. Some security professionals argue that Ivanti Connect Secure's deep integration with enterprise identity management systems gives it an advantage in highly regulated environments. As one CISO put it, "There are trade-offs with any solution. What matters is finding the right fit for your specific security requirements."

Security Considerations

Both platforms take security seriously, but their approaches differ:

Ivanti Connect Secure :

• Focuses on granular access controls
• Integrates deeply with enterprise security frameworks
• Provides detailed compliance reporting
• Requires regular updates to address security vulnerabilities

SafeShell VPN :

• Employs advanced encryption protocols
• Offers a strict no-logs policy
• Includes built-in malware and ad blocking
• Provides automatic security updates

Implementation Process

For organizations considering a switch from Ivanti Connect Secure to SafeShell VPN, the implementation process is relatively straightforward:

1. Assessment : Evaluate current remote access requirements and identify key use cases
2. Trial Deployment : Take advantage of SafeShell's free trial to test performance in your environment
3. Configuration : Set up user accounts and access policies
4. Rollout : Deploy to users with minimal disruption
5. Monitoring : Track performance and security metrics

Many organizations opt for a phased approach, running both solutions in parallel before fully transitioning.

Beyond Corporate Use: Additional Benefits of SafeShell VPN

While evaluating VPN solutions primarily for business use, it's worth noting that SafeShell VPN offers additional benefits that Ivanti Connect Secure doesn't address:

• Streaming Support : SafeShell VPN excels at providing access to geo-restricted content across multiple streaming platforms, which can be beneficial for business travelers.
• App Mode : A unique feature that allows users to access content from multiple regions simultaneously.
• Personal Privacy : Employees can use the same tool for personal privacy protection, potentially increasing adoption rates.

Making the Right Choice for Your Organization

When deciding between Ivanti Connect Secure and SafeShell VPN, consider these factors:

• Organization Size : Larger enterprises with complex access requirements might benefit from Ivanti's granular controls, while smaller to mid-sized organizations often find SafeShell's balance of security and usability advantageous.
• Technical Resources : Consider your IT team's capacity to manage and maintain your VPN solution.
• User Experience : Factor in the impact on productivity and user satisfaction.
• Budget Constraints : Evaluate total cost of ownership, including implementation, maintenance, and support costs.
• Future Scalability : Consider how each solution can adapt to your organization's evolving needs.

The Verdict

So, is Ivanti Connect Secure still your best option in 2025? The answer depends on your specific requirements. For organizations deeply invested in the Ivanti ecosystem with complex access control needs, Ivanti Connect Secure remains a viable solution despite its challenges.

However, for organizations seeking a balance of security, performance, and usability, SafeShell VPN represents a compelling alternative that's worth serious consideration. Its exceptional speed performance, user-friendly interface, and robust security features make it particularly well-suited for the hybrid work environments that have become standard in 2025.

As remote access continues to be a critical component of business operations, the choice between Ivanti Connect Secure and alternatives like SafeShell VPN should be made carefully, with a thorough assessment of your organization's specific needs. Whichever solution you choose, ensuring secure, reliable access to resources remains paramount in today's digital landscape.