Why Zero Trust Network Access Matters
During the discussion with Exec Edge's Founder and Editor-in-Chief John Jannarone , Taddeo emphasized Appgate's standing as a best-of-breed Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) provider, serving Fortune 100 companies, government agencies, and smaller businesses alike. Furthermore, he highlighted how Appgate ZTNA’s unique direct-routed architecture delivers higher throughput, better scalability, and enhanced resilience-all at a lower cost. This approach enables us to provide secure, fine-grained control over user access to critical applications, whether in the cloud or on-premises. As Taddeo explained:
“We provide secure user access, fine grain control from the user to the application, and we do it at scale…with higher throughput, better scalability, and better resilience at a lower cost.”
Cybersecurity Budgets: Still a Priority
Despite economic headwinds, Taddeo noted that cybersecurity remains a top priority for organizations. Escalating geopolitical tensions and increasingly sophisticated criminal hacking groups are keeping cybersecurity front and center in boardrooms and budget cycles. Even as companies scrutinize spending, investment in robust security solutions is holding steady.
ROI in Cybersecurity: Quantifying the Value
One of the biggest challenges in cybersecurity is demonstrating a clear return on investment (ROI). Taddeo explained how Appgate helps our customers articulate value by:
- Replacing legacy tools and eliminating unnecessary costs
- Promoting worker productivity through better user experiences
- Quantifying savings from more efficient routing and reduced transport costs.
This tangible approach to ROI is resonating with CFOs and CIOs who demand more than just “we didn’t get hacked” as a measure of value.
ZTNA for All: Large Enterprises and Small Businesses
Cybersecurity isn’t just for the big players. Taddeo highlighted that small businesses—often with fewer resources to recover from an attack—need protection just as much as large enterprises. We reach these organizations through managed service providers, ensuring that even dentists, chiropractors, and beauty shops can benefit from advanced security without the complexity.
The Evolving Threat Landscape
Drawing on his experience as a former FBI Special Agent in Charge of the Cyber Division, Taddeo described how cyber threats have shifted from politically motivated individuals to well-funded, nation-state and organized criminal groups. The line between nation-state actors and cybercriminals is increasingly blurred, with both leveraging AI to launch more sophisticated attacks. Taddeo underscored this convergence, noting:
“There is now a very blurred line between the nation-state actor and the criminal actor…those capabilities are being cross-pollinated and we’re seeing criminal actors with the same capabilities as nation states.”
Innovation and Collaboration: The Future of Cybersecurity
Taddeo is optimistic about the future, citing strong public-private partnerships, a dynamic workforce, and increased collaboration between vendors. He also reflected on the ongoing need for advancement in the field, stating:
"There will always be a need for innovation in cyber, and there will always be space for new companies to bring best-of-breed solutions to market."
The cybersecurity ecosystem is healthy, innovative, and constantly adapting to new threats, ensuring that defenders stay one step ahead.
Want to hear more of Taddeo’s insights about risk reduction, ZTNA, and the future of cybersecurity? Watch the full video interview from RSAC 2025 to get all the insights straight from the source.