Zscaler unveils cellular SIM security for IoT & OT devices
Zscaler has introduced Zscaler Cellular, an extension of its AI-powered Zero Trust Exchange platform, to enable secure communication for IoT and OT devices utilising a cellular SIM card.
The new product is designed to facilitate Zero Trust communication without requiring additional software installations or virtual private network (VPN) connections, which have been described as ineffective in addressing modern security needs for distributed devices.
Zscaler Cellular is aimed at organisations deploying IoT and OT devices across global locations, offering resilient connectivity by automatically connecting devices to any cellular network. Each device is isolated on what Zscaler describes as its "own private island", with all associated connections routed through the Zscaler platform to reduce the risk surface area.
According to Zscaler, traditional firewall and VPN-based security models have limitations when applied to the increasing number and diversity of IoT and OT devices being deployed.
The company notes that these legacy approaches often rely on expensive infrastructure and lack scalability, while native cellular network security controls are insufficient to enforce Zero Trust principles.
Product functionality
The company says the installation process for Zscaler Cellular is simplified to the use of a SIM card, marketed as an 'install and go' solution.
This allows organisations to secure connected devices in environments where they may have little or no control over local network infrastructure.
"Zscaler pioneered Zero Trust architecture; first with the introduction of Zero Trust for Users, then with Zero Trust for Cloud, followed by Zero Trust for Branch," said Nathan Howe, Group VP of Emerging Technologies at Zscaler.
"With the introduction of Zscaler Cellular, we have extended the power of the Zero Trust Exchange to IoT and OT devices with an easy 'install and go' SIM card that securely connects to any cellular network. This innovative solution provides customers with resilient connectivity, isolates each device to remove the attack surface, and ensures all inbound and outbound connections are protected through the Zero Trust Exchange."
Customer experience
According to Brian Shelby, Director of IT Infrastructure and Cybersecurity at Maverick Transportation, the adoption of Zscaler Cellular addressed existing security concerns with connected devices in locations outside the company's direct control.
"Zscaler Cellular solved our long-standing challenge: how to effectively secure the IoT and mobile devices that we deploy at clients' and customers' properties," said Shelby.
"We need to operate these tablets, time-tracking devices, and more on sites where we have no control over the networking options provided or the operating environment, and without adding software agents or using remote access VPNs. The solution allowed us to create device-bound authentication through Zscaler."
"This became our test case, and after equipping kiosks with Zscaler Cellular, our Zero Trust policies are enforced through the Zscaler Cellular Edge. The lines are gone, the employee experience is better, our business is still protected, and we don't need a software agent or VPN on the device."
Telecommunications collaboration
Zscaler is working with telecommunications companies, including Stacuity and BT, to deliver managed security services for cellular-connected devices by combining the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange platform with telco infrastructure.
Zscaler says these partnerships are intended to help organisations maintain consistent security policies across distributed cellular networks worldwide, aiding secure digital transformation initiatives.
"Zscaler Cellular represents a significant advancement in IoT and mobile security," said Zeus Kerravala, founder and principal analyst, ZK Research.
"By leveraging Zero Trust with cellular networks, Zscaler helps eliminate longstanding visibility and control gaps that have plagued enterprises for years. It's the first solution I've seen that brings cloud-scale security to every connected device - with the simplicity of activating a SIM."
Availability
Zscaler Cellular is scheduled for global availability in August 2025. The solution is currently in use by companies such as Sandvik and Maverick Transportation, with more customers expected in the near future.
