Formerly known as Pulse Secure, Ivanti Secure Access is a free-to-download VPN security service that serves as a protective umbrella for entire corporations, warding off malware, viruses, and other security threats. Acquired by software company Ivanti, it operates similarly to other business-oriented VPN applications, such as Zscaler, ExpressVPN, or Cisco AnyConnect. 

With its encrypted and authenticated connections, Ivanti Secure Access adds layers of protection when surfing online. Additionally, its integration with Secure Meeting, now known as Pulse Collaboration Suite, allows for secure virtual meetings and remote control of connected devices between users.  

Convenient and easy to set up 

The main interface of Ivanti Secure Access consists of “File” and “Help” options, and below them are buttons for adding, editing, and deleting a connection. To add a connection, click the “+” icon, select between “Policy Secure (UAC) or Connect Secure (VPN),” “Firewall SRX,” and “Zero Trust Access.” You can ask your company’s network administrator if you’re not sure which one to use. However, the administrator does not allow users to add a connection.  

Should you edit a connection, though, take note that only the “Name” and “Server Field” are editable. More than just giving users peace of mind, it is also capable of annotating logs of connectivity issues, allowing technicians to address such problems in a timely manner. Logs can also be saved as a ZIP file, aptly named “LogsAndDiagnostics.zip,” or uploaded to the Pulse Connect Secure gateway for further diagnosis. 

Security patches and transition 

Because Ivanti Secure Access i appliances sit at the heart of secure access, security vulnerabilities have historically been a major concern. Multiple critical flaws in Pulse Connect Secure have been actively exploited by threat actors, including sophisticated espionage groups and malware campaigns targeting enterprises. Enterprise administrators have repeatedly been urged to apply patches immediately when these vulnerabilities were disclosed, as unpatched systems could expose internal networks to unauthorized access and credential theft. 

Ivanti has continued to release security updates for Connect Secure and related gateways in response to newly discovered vulnerabilities. A notable update patched the critical CVE‑2025‑22457 buffer overflow issue in Ivanti Connect Secure 22.7R2.6, addressing a remote code execution risk that affected earlier versions and unsupported Pulse Connect Secure 9.x devices. Enterprises are strongly advised to migrate off end‑of‑support versions and apply current patches to reduce exposure to active exploits. 

A reliable but high-responsibility enterprise security tool 

Ivanti Secure Access stands as a strong VPN-focused security solution for businesses that require encrypted traffic, access control, and remote connectivity management. It offers logging tools, policy-based connections, and integrations, like Pulse Collaboration Suite for secure meetings. However, its history of severe vulnerabilities means that strict patching and version maintenance are essential. With proper configuration and updates, it can effectively safeguard enterprise environments, but it demands active oversight from IT teams.