Nokia reveals zero trust cloud security journey with Zcaler
"With our push towards a cloud-first model, it became evident that we needed a security architecture capable of supporting this evolution."
Nokia has opened up about how it used Zscaler’s cloud-native security platform to bolster its cyber defences, streamline operations, and advance its ongoing shift towards a cloud-first strategy.
The Finnish multinational, known for its iconic 90s phone and work in pioneering networks, digital services and applications, had previously relied on a patchwork of traditional hardware and virtual firewalls scattered across data centres, offices and cloud environments.
This legacy approach proved unwieldy and inefficient, particularly as the company aimed to adopt an identity-based, zero-trust security model that would not compromise on user experience.
“With our push towards a cloud-first model, it became evident that we needed a security architecture capable of supporting this evolution efficiently and securely,” said Nishant Batra, Nokia’s chief strategy and technology officer. “We are now moving towards identity-based, location-independent application access with a zero-trust security approach, without compromising user experience.”
As Nokia moved to modernise its IT infrastructure, the firm recognised that outdated firewall solutions lacked the agility to deliver true zero-trust security. Such shortfalls risked hobbling the company’s digital and cloud transformation initiatives, prompting it to adopt Zscaler’s Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) offerings. By deploying the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform, Nokia aims to streamline operations, reduce latency and enhance security.
Zscaler’s platform is designed to connect users directly to the applications and workloads they need, without exposing the broader corporate network. According to the US-based security provider, this approach reduces attack surfaces, helps maintain regulatory compliance and offers secure, high-performance access to software-as-a-service (SaaS) and private applications worldwide.
Nokia’s deployment includes several key Zscaler products, among them Zscaler Internet Access, Zscaler Private Access, Zscaler Digital Experience and Zscaler Data Protection. By integrating these tools, Nokia expects to see immediate benefits for end-users. Early rollout phases have already shown improvements in connectivity and productivity.
“Our team was particularly impressed with the seamless user experience, which advanced our performance and productivity from day one,” Batra said.
Zscaler chief executive Jay Chaudhry called the move a significant step forward for Nokia’s security posture. “As the leader in cloud security, Zscaler is thrilled to partner with Nokia on their journey towards a zero-trust architecture,” he said. “Zscaler’s AI-powered cloud security platform is helping Nokia accelerate their implementation of a modern security model that will deliver superior threat detection and response, reduce costs and improve user experiences.”
For Nokia, the transition is part of a wider cloud strategy. It wants to move away from cumbersome legacy firewalls and adopt a flexible, cloud-native platform to position itself for future growth and innovation.
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