Secure Access Service Edge Solutions

Improve your network security with Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions. Find out how SASE can help protect your organization's data and ensure secure access to cloud applications and services. Learn more about SASE solutions and choose the best one for your business. 

  

The world of technology is continuously evolving, and with it comes the need for businesses to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. One such area of rapid development is in the field of network security, where the traditional perimeter-based security model is becoming increasingly outdated. Enter Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), a new framework that combines network security functions with wide area network (WAN) capabilities to deliver secure access to applications and data regardless of location. This article will delve into the details of what SASE is, who could benefit from it, how to find the right vendor to fit your needs, and some of the top vendors in the market. Furthermore, we will explore the potential cost savings associated with SASE and the availability of free demos for businesses to evaluate the technology. 

  

What is Secure Access Service Edge? 

Secure Access Service Edge, or SASE, is a term coined by Gartner in 2019 to describe a new approach to network security that combines multiple security functions into a single, cloud-based service. This new framework aims to address the shortcomings of traditional network security models, which rely on a fixed perimeter and can struggle to keep up with the growing number of remote workers, cloud services, and mobile devices. 

SASE converges various network security functions, such as secure web gateways, firewalls, cloud access security brokers, and zero trust network access, with WAN capabilities such as software-defined WAN (SD-WAN). This convergence allows for a more efficient and agile security model that is better suited to the modern digital landscape. By delivering these services through the cloud, SASE enables businesses to provide secure access to their applications and data, regardless of where they are hosted or where users are located. 

Who could use Secure Access Service Edge? 

SASE is particularly beneficial for organizations with distributed workforces, multiple branch offices, or those that rely heavily on cloud-based applications and services. By centralizing and simplifying network security functions, SASE can provide more consistent and effective protection across an organization's entire digital footprint. 

In addition, SASE is well-suited for organizations undergoing digital transformation, as it can help streamline the transition to a more cloud-centric IT infrastructure. By providing secure access to applications and data regardless of location, SASE can help ensure that employees can work efficiently and securely from any location, whether they are in the office, at a remote site, or working from home. 

Top Secure Access Service Edge Vendors 

The SASE market is still relatively young, but several vendors have already emerged as leaders in this space. Some of the top SASE vendors include: 

  • Cato Networks: Cato Networks offers a comprehensive SASE platform, combining SD-WAN, network security, and cloud-based optimization in a single, unified solution. 

  • Zscaler: Zscaler's SASE platform, Zscaler Private Access, provides secure access to applications and data hosted in the cloud or on-premises, as well as a variety of network security features. 

  • Palo Alto Networks: Palo Alto Networks' Prisma Access is a cloud-delivered SASE solution that combines SD-WAN, network security, and cloud management capabilities. 

  • Cloudflare: Cloudflare's Cloudflare One is a SASE platform that includes SD-WAN, zero trust network access, and a range of network security features, all delivered through the cloud. 

How to find a Secure Access Service Vendor to fit your needs 

When evaluating SASE vendors, organizations should consider several factors, including: 

  • Integration capabilities: Ensure the vendor's SASE solution can integrate seamlessly with your existing infrastructure and technology stack. 

  • Scalability: Look for a vendor that can scale its SASE solution to accommodate your organization's growth and expansion plans. 

  • Security features: Evaluate the range of network security functions offered by each vendor and ensure they align with your organization's specific security requirements. 

  • Support and services: Assess the level of support and professional services provided by each vendor, as well as their track record for customer satisfaction. 

  • Pricing: Consider the total cost of ownership for each SASE solution, including upfront costs, ongoing fees, and any additional expenses for support or professional services. 

Best Secure Access Service Edge vendors/companies 

While the list of top SASE vendors mentioned earlier provides a solid starting point, it is crucial for organizations to evaluate each vendor's offerings in detail to determine the best fit for their specific needs. By conducting thorough research and taking advantage of free demos, businesses can make informed decisions about which SASE solution is the right choice for their unique requirements. 

Cost 

One of the key selling points of SASE is its potential to reduce security costs for organizations. By consolidating multiple security functions into a single, cloud-based service, SASE can help businesses streamline their network security infrastructure and eliminate the need for multiple point solutions. This consolidation can lead to significant cost savings, both in terms of reduced capital expenditures and lower operational expenses. 

As mentioned earlier, many SASE vendors offer free demos of their solutions, allowing businesses to evaluate the technology and determine if it is the right fit for their needs. Taking advantage of these demos can provide valuable insights into the capabilities and user experience of each SASE solution, helping organizations make more informed decisions about their network security investments.   

Secure Access Service Edge is a transformative approach to network security that can help businesses better adapt to the modern digital landscape. By consolidating multiple security functions into a single, cloud-based service, SASE can provide a more efficient and agile security model that is better suited to organizations with distributed workforces, multiple branch offices, or those relying heavily on cloud-based applications and services. Additionally, the potential for reduced security costs and the availability of free demos make SASE an attractive option for businesses looking to modernize their network security infrastructure.