How SASE Works
In a traditional enterprise network model, traffic from branch offices or remote workers is often sent back to a central corporate data center for security inspection (a process called "backhauling"). This is inefficient and slow. SASE solves this by: Moving the inspection point to the cloud edge: Users connect to the nearest Point of Presence (PoP) in the SASE provider’s global network. Applying unified policies: Security policies are applied consistently to all traffic at the edge, ensuring protection regardless of the user's location.
Core Components of SASE
SASE is a convergence of several technologies, typically categorized into two main pillars: Networking (WAN Edge) and Security (Security Service Edge or SSE).
- SD-WAN Intelligent routing for efficient and reliable connectivity
- ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access) "Never trust, always verify" access model that replaces traditional VPNs.
- SWG (Secure Web Gateway) Blocks malicious web traffic and enforces internet usage policies.
- FWaaS (Firewall as a Service) Delivers firewall capabilities as a cloud service rather than a physical appliance.
- DLP (Data Loss Prevention) Prevents sensitive data from leaving the organization.
Benefits of SASE
- Simplified Management: Reduces complexity by replacing multiple physical appliances and point solutions with a single, integrated cloud platform.
- Enhanced Security: Provides consistent and context-aware security policies for all users, supporting remote and hybrid work models effectively.
- Better Performance: Reduces latency by processing traffic locally at the network edge rather than backhauling it to a data center.
- Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the capital expense (CapEx) associated with purchasing and managing physical network and security appliances in many locations.