Zscaler Branch Connector

Zscaler Branch Connector is a software-defined edge connectivity and security solution designed to simplify, secure, and automate network traffic routing from distributed branch offices directly to the cloud. By terminating branch traffic locally and establishing secure, encrypted tunnels to the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange, it eliminates costly MPLS backhauling and complex branch firewall infrastructure while ensuring all outbound web and cloud traffic is inspected against enterprise security policies.

The solution deploys as a lightweight virtual machine on branch server hardware, hypervisors, or edge SD-WAN appliances, operating in high-availability branch architectures. It integrates natively with Zscaler Internet Access and Zscaler Private Access, as well as leading enterprise SD-WAN routing platforms like Cisco, VMware, and Fortinet to streamline branch edge network topologies. Key implementation use cases include routing direct branch-to-cloud internet traffic, enabling secure branch-to-private app connectivity, retiring branch hardware security stacks, and establishing consistent Zero Trust policies across retail and branch office networks.

By transforming traditional hub-and-spoke branch architectures into agile cloud-first connections, Zscaler Branch Connector reduces operational complexity and operational telecom expenditures. Security teams ensure that branch office employees, IoT devices, and local workloads are fully shielded from web threats and unauthorized network access. The platform delivers consistent security postures, optimizes network performance, and accelerates enterprise WAN modernization across distributed corporate locations.