Trends

SASE explained: Redefining network security and connectivity

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an emerging framework that redefines the way network security and connectivity are managed in the digital era. Coined by Gartner in 2019, SASE integrates wide-area networking (WAN) and network security services into a single, cloud-native service model. This appr…

SASE

Headline

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an emerging framework that redefines the way network security and connectivity are managed in the digital era. Coined by Gartner in 2019, SASE integrates wide-area networking (WAN) and network security services into a single, cloud-native…

Context

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an emerging framework that redefines the way network security and connectivity are managed in the digital era. Coined by Gartner in 2019, SASE integrates wide-area networking (WAN) and network security services into a single, cloud-native service model. This approach addresses the challenges of securing remote workforces, cloud applications, and distributed network environments. SASE combines several key components into a unified service. These include Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), secure web gateways (SWG), cloud access security brokers (CASB), firewall as a service (FWaaS), and zero-trust network access (ZTNA). Together, these components provide comprehensive security and optimised network performance.

Evidence

Pending intelligence enrichment.

Analysis

Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) SD-WAN is central to SASE, offering intelligent, application-aware routing across the WAN. It enhances performance by steering traffic over the most efficient path, whether that is MPLS, broadband, or LTE. This ensures optimal application performance and user experience, especially for cloud-based applications. Secure Web Gateways (SWG ) and Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASB) SWGs protect users from web-based threats by inspecting web traffic for malicious content and enforcing security policies. CASBs provide visibility and control over cloud service usage, ensuring compliance with security policies and protecting sensitive data in cloud environments. Both SWGs and CASBs are essential for safeguarding remote and mobile users accessing cloud applications.

Key Points

  • SASE addresses the challenges of securing remote workforces, cloud applications, and distributed network environments.
  • SASE offers several significant benefits that make it a compelling choice for modern enterprises.

Actions

Pending intelligence enrichment.

Author

Miurio Huang