As all major infrastructure (#NIS2) IP networks, IP applications and IP data content increasingly depend on real-time applications and dynamic infrastructure, a reassessment of the role of the VPN is needed and alternative mechanisms need to be implemented to secure real-time communications from any IP standard. An alternative solution and PIA (protect, intercept, archive) policy by design architecture can ensure all real-time traffic and benefit from network-based quality of service and optimal routing, whilst delivering security better than the VPN solution they are replacing. UM-Labs R&D with the Unicus® platform is specifically engineered to address the limitations of traditional VPN architectures in real-time communication environments. It delivers low-latency, high-assurance low residual for all encryption, including support for new Post-Quantum Cryptography (#PQC), across all real-time protocols while preserving critical QoS markings to maintain traffic prioritization. In addition to its encryption capabilities, Unicus™ offers native NAT and proxy services, which significantly reduce the complexity typically associated with Policy-Based Routing (PBR) and split tunnelling. By minimizing the number of IP addresses requiring manual classification for non-VPN routing, Unicus™ streamlines network operations and reduces administrative overhead. In essence, Unicus™ offers a secure, scalable, and future-proof alternative to VPN solutions, optimizing performance without compromising security, control or visibility.
