In the evolving world of cybersecurity, staying ahead of the game is essential to protect your organisation from the countless threats that we all face. One such transformative concept that you’ve probably read about in IT magazines and Cybersecurity sites, has gained prominence in recent years is Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). This new approach to cybersecurity combines network security and wide-area networking capabilities to offer a comprehensive, cloud-native solution. In this blog, we will explore why SASE (pronounced Sassy) is considered the future of cybersecurity.
Secure and Accelerate Web and Cloud Access
Traditional cybersecurity models often route traffic through on-premises security appliances, leading to latency and reduced performance. SASE, on the other hand, leverages cloud-based security services and optimised network paths to ensure that web and cloud access is both secure and fast.
When a user accesses a cloud application or website, the traffic is routed through a cloud-based security stack. This stack includes services like secure web gateways (SWG) and cloud access security brokers (CASB) that inspect and secure the data. Since SASE is cloud-native, it can scale resources as needed, ensuring that traffic is processed efficiently. This results in lower latency and a better user experience.
Evolve Beyond Legacy VPN
Legacy VPNs require users to connect to the corporate network before accessing resources. While this was effective when most work was done in-office, it is cumbersome for remote and mobile workforces. SASE replaces this model with a user-centric approach.
With SASE, users can securely access resources directly from the cloud. Identity and context-based policies are applied, allowing users to connect to applications and data without the need for complex VPN configurations. This not only simplifies access but also enhances security by ensuring that users only have access to what they need, based on their roles and permissions.
Simplify & Redefine Data Protection
Data protection is a multifaceted challenge in today’s digital landscape. Data is stored in various locations, from on-premises data centres to cloud services and endpoints. SASE simplifies data protection by providing a unified set of security policies and controls.
With SASE, organisations can define consistent data protection policies that apply across all access points. This includes encryption, data loss prevention (DLP), and threat detection. These policies are enforced regardless of whether data is accessed from within the corporate network, a remote location, or a mobile device. This level of consistency and control is vital in safeguarding sensitive information.
Modernise Enterprise Networking
Traditional enterprise networks were built around a hub-and-spoke model, where all traffic was routed through a central data centre. However, this architecture is ill-suited for the cloud era, where applications and data are distributed across various locations.
SASE modernises networking by adopting a cloud-native, edge-based approach. Software-defined wide-area networking (SD-WAN) technology is used to intelligently route traffic. This means that traffic is sent on the most optimal path, ensuring low latency and high performance. SASE also enhances network resilience by offering failover options and automatically adapting to changing network conditions.
Consolidate Your Security Architecture
Many organisations struggle with complex, fragmented security architectures that include numerous point solutions. These solutions often lack interoperability and can be challenging to manage effectively.
SASE consolidates security services into a single, cloud-based platform. This platform includes a range of security services such as firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), secure web gateways, zero trust network access (ZTNA), and more. By centralising security in this way, organisations can streamline management, reduce costs, and gain greater visibility into their overall security posture. This unified approach also simplifies the enforcement of security policies across all access points.
SASE represents a shift in cybersecurity, addressing the challenges posed by modern work environments, cloud adoption, and the need for scalable, flexible security. By integrating security and networking in a cloud-native manner, SASE provides a comprehensive solution that not only enhances protection but also supports the evolving needs of organisations in the digital age. It is poised to become the cornerstone of cybersecurity strategies in the future.
