Six ways SASE is transforming the way we think about networking and security
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) represents an elegant convergence of network and security technologies as a single, end-to-end solution, perfectly suited to the modern distributed workforce and the increasingly dynamic nature of corporate networks. As a growing number of organisations are discovering, SASE has the potential to completely transform the way we design, deploy, manage, and scale corporate networks. Indeed, 60% of IT leaders are ready to fully embrace SASE by 2025*.
World-class SASE solutions, such as that offered by Exponential-e and Cato Networks - utilise a global network of Points of Presence (PoPs), to which office locations can connect via SD-WAN, while remote users do so via client software or clientless access, with all network and security policies applied automatically to traffic as it enters the PoP.
Here are six of the most important shifts that SASE is helping drive:
A smoother journey from MPLS to SD-WAN
As legacy MPLS networks increasingly show their limitations, SASE offers another way, allowing for a stress-free migration to a next-gen SD-WAN solution, built on high-capacity internet links that support modern workloads. With all PoPs connected by a highly secure, private backbone, a typical SASE deployment takes place in days (or even hours, in certain cases) rather than weeks, delivering immediate improvements in performance and availability.
A truly global model of connectivity
SASE's global network and private backbone allow for the most stringent SLAs, with WAN and Cloud optimisation inherent in the design. This allows highly resilient, low-latency connections to be made available to locations worldwide, optimising the performance of both Cloud and on-premises platforms to a degree that would not be possible with public internet.
Highly secure, highly streamlined branch internet access
SASE significantly streamlines the maintenance of robust WAN security. When locations are connected to SASE PoPs, all internet and WAN traffic is protected by multiple Cloud-based, enterprise-grade security services, fully integrated into the SASE platform. This way, there is no need to backhaul traffic to a data centre, deploy and manage individual branch security tools, or integrate standalone Cloud security platforms, with all updates handled by the SASE platform.
An inherently Cloud-ready approach
With organisations at all levels embracing some form of Cloud computing, optimising the performance of these platforms, both public and private, is a critical priority. SASE is Cloud-ready by design, automatically routing all traffic to the PoP closest to the appropriate Cloud data centre. As Cato Networks and Exponential-e's managed SASE solution shares a global footprint with the leading Cloud providers, this ensures latency is kept to the absolute minimum, with IT teams able to define how traffic is routed by implementing a single, application-level rule, with no need to install additional platforms or establish hubs.
An ideal blend of security and accessibility
Remote working is now firmly established, with numerous employees connecting to corporate networks from home or on the move. SASE offers the best of both worlds, allowing remote users to access the platforms and data they require, while still maintaining the integrity of the wider corporate network through Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA). In contrast to legacy VPN systems, SASE's inherent scalability means all users can enjoy the highest standards of performance and security, wherever they are connecting from.
A holistic approach to network management
Network and security management has become increasingly complex in recent years, with a growing number of integrated platforms now making up typical corporate networks. Such systems make a holistic view of the entire network and its security difficult, if not impossible, to achieve. SASE makes all this critical, real-time data available through a single pane of glass, allowing for proactive troubleshooting, efficient incident response, and ongoing performance improvements. This way, network teams have everything they need to deliver a world-class user experience, right at their fingertips.
If you're ready to explore your own managed SASE solution, don't hesitate to get in touch.
If you would like to get your own network transformation off to the best possible start, we invite you to explore our recent whitepaper, MPLS, SD-WAN, and the Evolution of SASE: A practical guide to implementing your ideal next-gen WAN solution, in which we consider the challenges involved in migrating legacy connectivity, and offer an expert's assessment of multiple leading-edge networking solutions. This way, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision about the next step of your unique networking journey.
Stay Informed
When you subscribe to the blog, we will send you an e-mail when there are new updates on the site so you wouldn't miss them.
