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SASE

Navigating to the Future: the Power of SASE for Network Security

technavadmin IT Security, SD-WAN, Technology Navigation , ,
Navigating to the Future: the Power of SASE for Network Security
By John Wircher
Director of Client Engagement

In the current modern networking landscape, one term has emerged as a beacon of innovation and transformation: SASE. Secure Access Service Edge, abbreviated as SASE, is not merely a buzzword; it represents a fundamental shift in how organizations approach network security, particularly in the context of implementing SD-WAN solutions.

Understanding the Evolution of Network Security

While SD-WAN offers unparalleled benefits in terms of agility and performance, concerns surrounding security have often overshadowed its adoption. However, SASE presents a paradigmatic solution, seamlessly integrating robust security measures within the SD-WAN framework to create a comprehensive and cohesive approach to network security.

The Core Components of SASE

At its core, SASE leverages the foundational elements of SD-WAN, harnessing its capabilities for efficient and dynamic network connectivity. However, what sets SASE apart is its seamless integration of robust security measures within the SD-WAN framework. Imagine a scenario where the redundancy, policy enforcement, and quality of service (QoS) features of SD-WAN are complemented by powerful firewall protection, all orchestrated through a centralized management system. This is precisely what SASE brings to the table – a holistic approach to networking and security that transcends traditional silos.

Challenges in Selecting the Right SASE Solution

With great power comes great responsibility, and choosing the right SASE solution for your organization can be a daunting task. With numerous vendors vying for attention and a myriad of technical specifications to consider, navigating this complex landscape requires expertise and insight. This is where Technology Navigation steps in.

The Role of Technology Navigation

Technology Navigation is a guide amidst the fog of confusion surrounding SASE procurement. Our team of experts specializes in helping businesses identify the perfect SASE supplier that aligns with their specific needs and objectives. Whether you prioritize scalability, performance, or regulatory compliance, we meticulously analyze your requirements to recommend the most suitable SASE technology tailored to your organization. Contact us!

Thinking of security and SD-WAN? 4 SASE Trends you need to keep an eye on!

technavadmin IT Security, SD-WAN , , ,
Thinking of security and SD-WAN? 4 SASE Trends you need to keep an eye on!

By Chis Newell
Founder & President

Studies have shown that SASE framework will account for 25+ percent of SD-WAN and cloud security services by the end of 2027. As we progress into 2023 let’s take a closer look at 4 emerging trends of SASE that could impact the year ahead.

SASE is a framework, not just another security mechanism. As we progress into this structure, the payoffs, little nuances, and big strategies have become much clearer.

1. Consolidation of SD-WAN following SASE framework adoption

Undeniably, as SASE adoption gains traction, there will be a good number of SD-WAN and security consolidations. It was difficult to discuss security options with SD-WAN, the intervention of SASE framework certainly converges the conversation. SASE key product sets are combining:

  • Software-Define Wide Area Network (SD-WAN)
  • Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
  • Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
  • Data Loss Prevention (DLP)
  • Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
  • Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
  • Centralized Management

Ever since businesses have embraced the remote office/users, IoT and home users, things have taken a solemn turn in a secure network edge. Simply, converging the conversation with a SASE framework, improves and secures networks.

2. Securing IoT devices

As employees continue to use a range of IoT devices, all mission-critical IoT will be looking to embrace SD-WAN with a SASE architecture. IoTs vital role is also its weakness. Because of IoTs mobility in business environments, security is an afterthought instead of a secure, faster, and reliable connection. It is important to note that all such IoT devices in the residential tech stack bleeding into the corporate environment pose a high risk.

Therefore, generating a holistic SD-WAN SASE awareness of all such devices (residential and business) will gain significance. Most SASE-based issues from IoT come from how invisible they are on the network.

3. SaaS Cloud Native Platforms & SASE

When looking to fuel digital transformations, SaaS makes it easier than not to move to the cloud.However, such benefits don’t come with a warning label. SASE’s security protects the most common bad actors facing SaaS applications.     

Phishing, malware, and account takeover are just some of the attacks SASE can stop or limit your organization’s exposure. 

While SaaS is an attractive way to transform to the digital age, protecting your journey is paramount.

4. SASE is redefining security for remote and home office networking

Since COVID disrupted the way of working, bad actors have been on a spree. According to Andrew Ossipov, CTO at Cisco, social engineering aimed at extracting credentials of corporates is fast becoming a daily occurrence because of a more significant number of remote workers. All thanks to feebly protected solutions connected to home and remote office networks with limited visibility.

With SASE on the scene, enterprises seek powerful ZTNA and SDP connections for various hybrid applications. More so, with increasing human-readable security policies for private, cloud, and SaaS network enforcement points.

Things will eventually boil down to a secure, end-to-end connectivity reinforcing a positive user experience across the length and breadth of applications.  

Wrap Up

Undoubtedly, as SASE solutions grow mature, integration capabilities will expand. 

The need for the hour is an optimal secure network and user experience, which the SASE framework provides. 

For customers looking to embrace the best-in-class solutions, you should team up with a supplier that has extended SASE capabilities and allows you to consume these capabilities as required.

Technology Navigation can help you find the SASE provider. Connect with us to learn more.