Zscaler Brings Zero Trust Model to the Heart of Cellular Communications for IoT and OT

In a move that redefines connected device security, Zscaler has announced the launch of Zscaler Cellular, a solution that extends its Zero Trust Exchange™ platform to IoT (Internet of Things) and OT (Operational Technology) devices connected via mobile networks. The aim: to provide resilient and secure communications without the need to install software, agents, or rely on traditional VPNs.

Zscaler’s approach is radically simple: a smart SIM that ensures global connectivity through cellular networks, but with complete isolation of each device. This reduces the attack surface, and all connections are routed through Zscaler’s cloud infrastructure.

“With Zscaler Cellular, we’re taking a step further: from Zero Trust for users, cloud, and branches, to now also cover IoT and OT,” said Nathan Howe, Vice President of Emerging Technologies at Zscaler. “With a simple SIM, devices are integrated into a robust and flexible Zero Trust architecture, eliminating security blind spots.”

Why is this solution important?

The proliferation of sensors, kiosks, industrial tablets, and tracking devices in unmanaged environments—such as construction sites, vehicles, remote facilities, or rural areas—has exposed a growing security gap. Solutions based on VPNs and firewalls don’t scale well in these scenarios, and mobile networks alone lack the controls needed to implement zero-trust policies.

Zscaler Cellular removes these barriers by offering a “plug-and-play” solution that enables:

Key AdvantagesDescription
Automatic global cellular connectivityThe device connects to the available cellular network automatically without intervention
Complete device isolationEach device operates in its own virtual private and exclusive network
No agents or additional software neededIdeal for heterogeneous or low-connectivity environments
Security and control from the coreAll traffic flows through Zscaler Exchange with Zero Trust policies

According to Zscaler, this setup allows for device authentication, risk assessment, and real-time access rules application—even in environments where the customer doesn’t control the local network.

Real-world case: Maverick Transportation

One of the early adopters is Maverick Transportation, a logistics company operating devices at third-party locations without network control. After equipping their kiosks and terminals with Zscaler Cellular, Infrastructure Director Brian Shelby is clear:

“Now, our Zero Trust policies are enforced at the edge, without the need for VPNs or agents. Employee experience is better, we’ve eliminated points of failure, and we’re still protected.”

Partnership with Telcos: A strategy to scale

Zscaler has also confirmed it’s working with operators like NTT to offer this solution managed, integrating it with telecom infrastructures and extending the Zero Trust model globally. This means devices connected via 4G or 5G no longer represent a security weakness but become an integral part of the business strategy.

“Zscaler Cellular finally brings global-scale cloud security to every connected device, with the simplicity of activating a SIM,” explained Zeus Kerravala, Senior Analyst at ZK Research.

Availability

Zscaler Cellular will be globally available in August 2025. Companies like Sandvik and Maverick Transportation are already using it in production, and the company expects to rapidly expand its customer base across sectors such as energy, manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and utilities.

via: zscaler

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