Getting your enterprise network secure is no walk in the digital park.
A decade back, network connectivity was straightforward. Companies simply operated on-premise data centers and servers. Employees used their company-owned devices to access their enterprise network. Securing the perimeter was challenging but not insurmountable. Wide-area networks (WAN), virtual private networks, and firewalls safely connected companies to their networks.
Fast-forward to today. It’s a different world altogether. Enterprises are shifting from on-premise infrastructure to the cloud. Data and applications are distributed everywhere. Employees bring their devices and work from anywhere – office, home, or cafes. The volume and nature of traffic to a company’s network have blown up. The attack surface and the volume of security threats have expanded.
WANs evolved into software-defined WANs (SD-WANs) to deal with the explosion of network traffic to the cloud. But it still doesn’t address the security challenges. Similarly, different cloud security solutions have emerged, but they don't offer holistic solutions to network challenges.
Fortunately, secure access service edge (SASE) solutions are emerging for companies that want a unified security and network solution to their challenges.
Secure access service edge (SASE), pronounced 'sassy', is a cloud-based architecture that provides network as a service (NaaS) and security as a service together.
SASE joins network components, like SD-WAN, and security components, like secure web getaways (SWG), cloud access security brokers (CASB), firewalls, and zero-trust network access (ZTNA) to provide safe access to network resources anywhere. The model connects the elements of IT infrastructure that worked in silos before and simplifies the network stack to fortify security.
Learn more about how SASE works, its components, benefits, and why your business must adopt a SASE solution. We’ll also explore ways you can proceed with SASE adoption and the five best SASE platforms to consider.
Today, nearly 50% of organizations are cloud-native or fully cloud-enabled, and 85% of organizations will be “cloud first” by 2025. The accelerated move to the cloud has pressured the enterprise network. Businesses want their applications and essential software to be up and running at all times. Employees want access to apps from their remote workplaces, branch offices, or wherever they are.
However, cloud adoption also widens an organization’s attack surface and multiplies its security threats. 65% of C-suite executives claim they cannot manage emerging cloud security risks.
The legacy network architectures don’t meet today’s fast-evolving network and security needs. It typically has a WAN that uses routers and virtual private networks (VPN) to connect users to enterprise networks via multiprotocol label switching (MPLS). Adding in hardware requirements, the setup is expensive.
The legacy security architecture also means backhauling traffic to a centralized hub for security checks. This process increases latency, slows application performance, frustrates users, and reduces productivity.
Organizations trying to find network solutions that meet their requirements sometimes stitch together multiple network and cloud security services like SD-WAN and CASB. However, this option often falls short as it increases the complexity, cost, and resources needed to manage them.
SASE, however, solves these problems. It offers a more robust framework for security and network under the same umbrella. Nearly two-thirds of early SASE adopters note improved performance and uptime for remote workers. More than 40% have observed cost savings and greater visibility into their network and cloud environment.
It’s for sure a new technology in the world of cloud and cybersecurity. However, its benefits outweigh any doubts skeptics may have about the model.
Traditional networks often rely on a hub-and-spoke model. Everything revolves around a centralized data center. It routes all traffic to a centralized hub for security checks.
But with cloud adoption and remote work, it cannot support all the network requirements as it backhauls traffic through a single choke point. It slows down connectivity and affects application performance. Further, scaling the network requires additional hardware deployments. SASE works differently.
Look at the following instance when a remote user tries to connect to a cloud application through SASE.
Instead of backhauling traffic to traditional data centers or private networks for security inspections, SASE gets traffic moving seamlessly through a secured network and security components without latency. Users can easily access apps and resources wherever they are and at any time.
As stated earlier, SASE integrates networking and security technologies to deliver a secure cloud-based networking solution. Let’s look at the networking and security components that make up the SASE architecture.
SASE’s core network architecture can be broken down into three elements: SD-WAN, Global PoP, and artificial intelligence for IT operations (AIOps).
SD-WAN software is the essential element of SASE. It provides reliable and optimal network connections between end users, cloud apps, and enterprise data centers.
SD-WAN typically creates an overlay network, i.e., a virtual network on top of the user’s existing network. It then selects the best route for traffic from endpoints to the cloud apps and data centers dynamically based on the network policies the admin sets. Regardless of the type of the existing network, whether it’s WAN, the internet, commercial broadband links, or a combination, SD-WAN connects them optimally.
Since the endpoints are connected via encrypted tunnels, SD-WAN gives users a secure connection. It simplifies and reduces the cost of network infrastructure and makes it easier to manage network policies across multiple locations.
A globally distributed PoP is the engine that powers SD-WAN software. PoP is the location where the network service provider maintains their network infrastructure and connects different networks. Think of it as the central point that manages the large volume of links that flow in and out of the network.
Large SASE providers distribute the PoPs across multiple geographies. This ensures customers can connect to their enterprise network via the PoP nearest to their resources – data center, campus, branches, users – and cloud services – SaaS apps and cloud platform providers. It also reduces latency and improves performance.
A SASE powered with machine learning (ML) and advanced analytics plays a key role in automating and minimizing the day-to-day operations IT teams have to do to keep their enterprise network stable and secure. AIOps automates anomaly detection, root cause analysis, and measures to mitigate any issues on the network.
As a result, IT teams can monitor network performance in real-time and spot problems quickly. AIOps also administer self-healing measures for certain situations based on the policy set by the IT teams.
Related: Learn more about network automation and how it makes IT operations more efficient.
The four core SASE security components are zero-trust network access, secure web gateway, cloud access security broker, and firewall as a service (FWaaS).
ZTNA works on the foundational principles of the zero-trust model - “never trust, always verify.” All network access requests are treated as suspect until verified. The identity of individual users accessing devices is authenticated before granting entry every single time.
ZTNA is combined with the principle of least privilege, whereby users are granted access to specific data, resources, and applications needed to complete a job. Companies can set up granular policies to enforce stricter security.
SWG is a cloud-based network security solution that sits between the internet and its users. It inspects every web request a company’s network gets and blocks any unauthorized and potentially malicious traffic from entering. The essential SWG capabilities include the following:
Combined with SD-WAN and other SASE elements, SWG covers complete visibility into network traffic.
CASB is a security software that secures connections between end users and cloud platforms. It allows administrators to set policies for cloud access and provides visibility about employee cloud usage. While SWG ensures safe internet usage, CASB makes sure of safe cloud usage. Under SASE architecture, these two components secure the network on both the internet and cloud fronts.
Also known as a cloud firewall, FWaaS is one of the fundamental parts of SASE. The natural evolution of the traditional network firewall, it’s cloud-delivered and protects the network and cloud infrastructure. In SASE, the firewall comes integrated with the entire network stack. Some SASE vendors offer next-generation firewalls with state-of-the-art capabilities like intrusion detection systems and advanced threat detection.
These 4 characteristics of SASE help make it efficient and noteworthy.
In recent years, SASE has taken the network and security world by storm. Not without reasons. It addresses the unmet business needs of a combined security and network solution. SASE is scalable by design, making it ideal for the rapidly evolving network infrastructure. Here are the five potential advantages of adopting a SASE solution for your organization.
SASE merges different network and security functions into a single management console. The IT team views and monitors everything with a single interface instead of going to multiple dashboards and tools to keep tabs on network activity and security. That means no silos, and no need to buy, install, or upgrade different tools or hardware at different locations from multiple vendors.
It also eliminates the need for setting up different security and compliance policies for multiple network security solutions. Instead, businesses can create, configure and enforce a single network and security policy with granular details, ensuring policy consistency.
SASE eliminates any latency in network connectivity. Its cloud delivery model provides secured network connectivity wherever and whenever needed. The SD-WAN technology and a global network of PoP guarantee enhanced traffic processing and optimal routing for any traffic request. This improves the speed of the connection.
All security functions are performed with a single architecture inside the PoP. This avoids unnecessary traffic routing and improves network operations.
Most SASE products come with cloud-based authentication for user and device identity for an additional layer of security and a simpler authentication process.
Users don’t need multiple authorizations as they access different resources. Instead, SASE applies the appropriate policies for various resources the user seeks based on the initial sign-in. This streamlines users’ accessibility to the enterprise network.
With a low latency network, users also get better application performance and good quality of service.
Security is the star factor of SASE. It delivers various capabilities, from ZTNA to advanced threat detection, all under a single platform. As a cloud-native solution, it’s positioned to protect against a wide range of cloud security threats.
SASE also provides end-to-end encryption for all traffic in the enterprise network that protects against any data loss or exfiltration.
IT teams get good visibility of their network with SASE. They get to know about all their users, their devices, and the apps they use. The SASE security reports typically alert IT managers about any use of unsanctioned applications, helping manage shadow IT.
Conventional networks rely on a patchwork of multiple security and network solutions to secure the environment. On the other hand, a single vendor provides a range of solutions with SASE. This reduces the operational cost and the IT resources required to manage the tools.
As an emerging technology, SASE adoption is not without significant barriers. Your business might face some of the following challenges.
The SASE market is still very nascent. No uniform industry standards about the features it should have, the performance it should provide, or how it should be deployed exist yet.
It’s also difficult to find trusted SASE providers since everything is so new. Not all vendors have the expertise in both network and security areas as well as in on-premise and cloud technologies. As a result, shortcomings in their products may arise.
SASE brings together network and security technologies for good. A major problem comes up if the network and IT security teams can’t cooperate. More often than not, networking and security have existed in parallel, with the teams working in silos, even when managing a common infrastructure.
While any big changes bring forth some resistance, turf wars between the two departments could stall the entire process. Bring both teams on board before embarking on the SASE journey.
Adopting SASE is a long process that requires significant investment in time, money, and human resources. Enterprises have to be ready for the long haul instead of expecting immediate implementation and results.
Despite the challenges, SASE is a disruptor of legacy network and security technologies.
SASE is often confused with other network and cloud security technologies like SD-WAN and secure service edge (SSE). However, these technologies are a subset of SASE.
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SSE, which evolved after SASE as a cloud security architecture, can be considered the security component of SASE. It includes ZTNA, CASB, SWG, and FWaaS. However, it doesn’t address the network needs. Companies that want to focus on the security component of their network can opt for SSE.
SASE, on the other hand, takes a holistic approach to network and security needs and integrates both components.
Implementing SASE for your business needs in-depth planning. After all, overhauling your network and security architecture with a new model is no small thing. Here are some things to consider.
Getting a SASE solution doesn’t mean just buying a solution from a single vendor and setting it up. It can also involve building on your existing infrastructure to develop a truly converged SASE architecture.
To figure out which option is best for you, list the network and security problems that need to be solved in your organization. Do you need to move from MPLS to SD-WAN? Do you need a cloud security solution to get visibility into your evolving multi-cloud environment? Or do you just need better access control?
Determine whether you can use certain SASE technologies to fill the gap in your current infrastructure. For instance, if you already have an SD-WAN networking component and just need more security coverage, you can integrate an SSE to create your SASE architecture.
Examine where you stand against an ideal SASE model at your enterprise. Define these at the beginning because SASE isn’t a case of plug-and-play. It requires a strategic map that covers all your enterprise network requirements.
Plan your use cases and remember SASE deployment happens gradually. You don’t have to make a complete switch from your legacy infrastructure to a SASE solution in a single day. Rather, you can plan to add different SASE components over years. With this goal, create your SASE roadmap and estimate the timeline, cost, and resources needed.
Often, technology is not the barrier in any digital transformation but people’s reluctance to use it. This applies to adopting SASE, too, as it transforms the entire network.
In many enterprises, network and security teams work separately. These silos need to be broken down. SASE will replace legacy VPNs, hardware firewalls, and other applications over time. Rules and policies will need to be reworked. Practices across the organization will need to be redrafted. This requires support from the leadership.
Explain to higher-ups how using SASE supports the company’s strategic goals like reducing costs and increasing performance. Once people see how the initiative fits into the big picture, they’ll be more willing to devote resources to it.
Now that you have done your legwork start evaluating SASE vendors. Cloud-native network and security solutions are constantly evolving. As a result, SASE platforms do the same. Do your due diligence.
is the number of SASE products suites and products listed on G2.com, the world’s leading software marketplace.
Source: G2
Check the vendor’s capabilities with your requirements. Ensure your vendor has a global private backbone for a secure network and a cloud-native software stack. Their interface should also be easy-to-use. Most importantly, the solution should be equipped to support new technologies like 5G in the future.
Test and pilot specific SASE capabilities like SD-WAN and see how they integrate with your cloud environment, network, and security stack. Expand by adding more SASE components. Meanwhile, phase out the legacy hardware as contracts expire while moving to SASE architecture.
Based on reviews on G2, our users focus the most on these popular features when picking SASE tools.
By implementing in phases, you can proceed with confidence. Keep evaluating the performance and optimize the SASE architecture as your network demands evolve.
SASE offers a comprehensive network connectivity and security solution that’s more agile and easier to scale than traditional options. It emphasizes an all-in-one approach to centralize security policies and access management at the edge of the network, protecting both on-premises and cloud-based applications and data.
Check out our list of the best SASE platforms for 2023 based on genuine reviews from verified users on our website.
To qualify for inclusion in the SASE category, a vendor must have:
*Below are the top 5 leading SASE platforms solutions from G2’s Spring 2023 Grid® Report. Some reviews may be edited for clarity.
Zscaler Cloud Security is a cloud-native SASE architecture tool. It includes a range of features such as SWG, ZTNA, and CASB. Zscaler has 150+ PoP globally and provides secure access and a single pane of visibility into network connectivity and security.
“It reduces IT costs and complexity by being easy to deploy and manage as an automated, cloud-delivered service. It also delivers a great user experience by bringing the security and policy close to the user to eliminate unnecessary backhaul.”
- Zscaler Cloud Security Review, Manjunath M.“It is unstable. We always have to move the proxy to another location. Reporting is so limited. ”
- Zscaler Cloud Security Review, Jan-Michael G.Symantec SASE Framework offers most components essential for a SASE platform, like DLP, FWaaS, SSL inspection, and performance monitoring applications. An added advantage is that it’s an open solution that works with any SD-WAN vendor.
“Provides good protection against web and cloud traffic. The technical support team is available 24/7 for any solution.”
- Symantec SASE Framework Review, Abhinaya M.“Support is a little late to respond. The price is a little high compared to another vendor. Also, not enough training material.”
- Symantec SASE Framework Review, Ahmed B.
Citrix Secure Access is part of Citrix SASE portfolio that includes SD-WAN, secure internet access, and analytics. These solutions are fully integrated and can be deployed in multiple phases based on what you need. The solution has high customer satisfaction but a low market presence, according to the G2 Spring Report 2023.
“It is a secure way to do business from multiple locations without worrying. The system can be used by many people at once. It’s easy to navigate.”
- Citrix Secure Access Review, Jodi W.“Few things are annoying sometimes, especially when you cannot connect to the server, and it just doesn't tell you exact issues. Sometimes the reason can be your profile is locked with one server, and you cannot connect to new servers. If the internet is weak, it starts breaking the connectivity, although it gets reconnected once the connection is restored.”
- Citrix Secure Access Review, Nazli P.
Prisma SASE by Palo Alto Networks is an AI-powered SASE solution. Prisma Access and Prisma SD-WAN make up the core of this architecture. Apart from the usual SASE components, Prisma has the added advantage of AIOps integrated into the solution for analytics and problem detection.
“Simple console for SD-WAN, and with the same console, we manage Prisma Access, also.”
- Prisma SASE Review, Lalith K.
"Product is bit costlier than other security services provider."
- Prisma SASE Review, Sanchit M.
MVISION Unified Cloud Edge was McAfee’s answer to SASE architecture, offering unified network and security solutions. It’s now provided by Trellix and Skyhigh Security, the two companies that spun off from McAfee Enterprises in 2022. Skyhigh Security focuses more on SSE, while Trellix is concerned with SASE and endpoint security solutions.
“One of the best things about MVISION Unified Cloud Edge is its ability to provide a holistic view of an organization's security posture across multiple environments, including public and private clouds, on-premises systems, and mobile devices. Also, it enables one to gain visibility and control over one's cloud and web assets, applications, and data, and allows you to set policies and enforce them consistently across your entire organization.” -
- MVISION Unified Cloud Edge Review, Shashank A.“It is complex to most of our users in terms of configuration. Also, the cost is on the upper side.”
- MVision Unified Cloud Edge Review, Mayank V.
SASE transforms enterprise networks. It delivers unparalleled agility, scalability, and resilience with a unified cloud-based security and network architecture. For rapid cloud computing and hybrid work, SASE adoption is not going to be a question of why but a question of when.
Early adopters are already reaping benefits in low cost, increased network performance, and best-in-class security. So, why not get on the SASE train before it's late?
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