Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a network architecture that provides comprehensive security and networking capabilities to modern cloud-based applications and remote workforces. Let’s explore the use cases, pros and cons, what businesses are good candidates for SASE and why, and what to look for when evaluating the solution that best meets a business’s specific needs.

Use Cases of SASE:

The primary use case of SASE is to provide secure access to cloud-based and on-prem legacy applications and resources for remote workers. With the rise of cloud computing and remote work, traditional security models that rely on centralized security appliances and backhauling traffic to the data center are becoming obsolete. SASE solves this problem by consolidating networking and security capabilities into a cloud-based service, delivering them as a service to any user, anywhere.

Pros and Cons of SASE:

The primary advantage of SASE is that it creates an extensive set of security and networking capabilities and tools within a single platform – providing admins within an organization the ability to monitor and adjust security posture using a holistic approach. SASE solutions typically include features such as VPN/ZTNA, firewall, web filtering, and intrusion prevention, among others. This eliminates the need for organizations to deploy and manage multiple security and networking appliances, reducing operational costs and complexity.

Another advantage of SASE is its ability to scale quickly and easily. As remote workforces continue to grow, companies desire a solution that can accommodate an ever-increasing number of users and devices. SASE allows organizations to easily scale their security and networking capabilities to meet the needs of their users, without having to deploy additional hardware.

Despite its many benefits, SASE also has some potential drawbacks. One of the main concerns is data privacy and sovereignty. Being cloud-based infrastructure, data in transit or at rest within SASE platforms may be subject to the laws and regulations of the country where the cloud service provider is located. Some providers may be able to guarantee the segmentation of data within particular locales. Organizations should carefully consider the legal and regulatory requirements of their industry and geography before adopting a SASE solution.

Who Should Consider SASE and Why:

Any organization that is looking to provide secure access to legacy and cloud-based applications and resources for their remote workforce should consider SASE, regardless of verticle or size. SASE provides companies with a platform for scaling network and access capabilities/features quickly and easily. This allows them to meet the needs of their users and changing market conditions, without compromising security.

Considerations When Selecting a SASE Solution for your Business:

When selecting a SASE solution/vendor, the following should be carefully considered:

1. Security capabilities: Look for SASE solutions and platforms that provide a holistic and comprehensive set of security capabilities, including VPN and/or ZTNA, firewall, web filtering, and intrusion prevention.
2. Network performance: Consider the solution’s ability to handle high volumes of traffic and ensure low latency.
3. Existing platforms and providers: Look for a SASE solution that supports the cloud providers that your business is currently utilizing and is also robust enough to encompass traditional, on-premise infrastructure as well.
4. Data privacy and sovereignty: Ensure that the solution complies with the legal and regulatory requirements of your industry and geography.
5. Deployment and management ease: Look for a SASE solution that is easy to deploy and manage, with minimal IT overhead, and a strong track record of vendor support.

Conclusion:

SASE is becoming an increasingly popular solution for organizations of all sizes and industries that are looking to provide secure access to cloud-based and legacy applications and resources for their remote workforce. When selecting a SASE solution, it is important to consider factors such as security capabilities, network performance, cloud service providers, data privacy and sovereignty, and ease of deployment and management. By doing so, organizations can ensure that they select a solution that meets their needs while also providing comprehensive security and networking capabilities in a single platform.