What is SASE and how does it help cyber security?

If you’ve been dipping your toes into the vast ocean of IT and security, you’ve probably come across the term “SASE.” But don’t worry if you don’t have a clue what it means – we’re here to explain it down in plain English.

SASE stands for Secure Access Service Edge, and it is a concept that’s taking the IT and security world by storm. It might sound complex, but it’s really not all that daunting. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to understand what SASE is, why it’s a big deal, and how it impacts your digital life.

The Context

Remember the days when you needed to go to a physical office to work? Well, those days are slowly becoming a thing of the past. Thanks to the internet, we can work from anywhere – our homes, cafes, beaches, you name it. But with great power comes great responsibility, and that’s where SASE comes into play.

As the way we work has evolved, so have the threats to our digital security. It used to be enough to have a fortress-like security system around the office, but now, employees are scattered all over the place. SASE ensures that, no matter where you work, your digital presence is safe and sound.

The Basics

Let’s start with the basics and before getting into what SASE is, let’s ask what an edge is! Simply put it’s the boundary between your world and the outside world. That can be the firewall for your network, it can be the ‘edge’ of your Microsoft tenancy where email is filtered before being delivered, it can be the login page for your accounting software. It’s the edge of your digital world!

So what is SASE? Imagine SASE as your digital bouncer, guarding the virtual gates of your online world.

It is described as a framework that combines two essential elements: network security and wide-area networking (WAN). That sounds a bit complicated and woolly but read on to find out what that really means.

Network security involves protecting your data and devices from online threats and bad actors. On the other hand, WAN is like the digital highway that connects your devices to the internet. SASE brings these two elements together, making it an all-in-one solution for your digital safety.

Microsoft explain that SASE has four main traits:

1. Identity-driven:

Access is granted based on the identity of users and devices.

2. Cloud-native:

Both infrastructure and security solutions are cloud-delivered.

3. Supports all edges:

Every physical, digital, and logical edge is protected.

4. Globally distributed:

Users are secured no matter where they work.

SASE Components

Alright, let’s dive a bit deeper into the SASE world. SASE is not a single software or device; it’s a combination of various components working together harmoniously. Here’s a rundown of the key elements:

1. Network Security : Think of this as your digital bodyguard. It includes things like firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems. These are the gatekeepers that keep the bad stuff out of your network.
2. Secure Web Gateways (SWG) : These are like the sentinels at the digital entrance of your web traffic. They block malicious websites, protect against phishing attempts, and keep you safe while you surf.
3. Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS) : This is a virtual firewall that acts as a barrier between your network and the outside world. It ensures only authorised traffic gets through.
4. Software-Defined WAN (SD-WAN) : Imagine SD-WAN as the traffic manager on the digital highway. It ensures that your data travels efficiently and securely between your device and the internet.
5. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) : ZTNA is all about trust. It doesn’t blindly trust any device or user, no matter where they’re connecting from. It verifies their identity and only allows access to the resources they’re authorised to use.
6. Cloud Security : With more data and applications moving to the cloud, this component focuses on securing your interactions with cloud-based services. It’s like a protective bubble around your cloud activities.

The Benefits of SASE

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I care about SASE?” Well, here are some pretty compelling reasons:

1. Flexibility : SASE allows you to work from anywhere while ensuring your data remains secure. It adapts to your changing needs, whether you’re at home, the office, or on a tropical island.
2. Cost Savings : By consolidating various security and networking components, SASE can be more cost-effective than managing multiple systems separately. It’s getting more bang for your buck.
3. Improved Performance : With SD-WAN optimising your network traffic, your digital experience becomes smoother and more efficient. Say goodbye to buffering and lag.
4. Enhanced Security : SASE’s focus on zero trust and network security ensures that your data is protected from evolving threats, no matter where you access it from.
5. Simplicity : Managing multiple security and networking tools can be a headache. SASE simplifies things by combining them into one unified solution.

The Future of SASE

As technology continues to advance, so does SASE. We can expect to see some exciting developments in the coming years:

1. Integration with AI and Machine Learning : SASE will become even smarter at detecting and preventing threats. It will adapt in real-time, keeping you safe from emerging dangers.
2. IoT Protection : With the proliferation of IoT devices, SASE will expand to protect these gadgets, ensuring they don’t become entry points for cyberattacks.
3. More Cloud Integration : As more data and services move to the cloud, SASE will further integrate with cloud security, making it seamless for users.
4. Customisation : SASE providers will offer more tailored solutions, allowing businesses to configure their security and networking needs precisely.

How SASE Affects You

How does all this tech jargon affect you and your organisation?

Well, here’s the bottom line: SASE makes your digital life more convenient and secure. It ensures that you can work, play, and browse the web without worrying about cyber threats. You get the flexibility to use your devices from anywhere, knowing your data is safe.

For businesses, SASE provides a scalable solution that simplifies IT management and improves security. It reduces the risks associated with remote work and allows companies to adapt to the changing landscape of work.

So, there you have it – an introduction to SASE. Remember, SASE is like your personal digital bodyguard, protecting you from the bad guys while making your online life more convenient and efficient. It’s a concept that’s changing the way we work and connect in our increasingly digital world.

As technology continues to evolve, SASE will evolve with it, offering even smarter, more tailored solutions. And whether you’re an IT newbie or a seasoned pro, understanding the basics of SASE is essential in today’s digital landscape.

So, next time someone drops the term “SASE” in a conversation, you’ll not only know what it stands for but also why it’s so darn important.

If you want to learn more about implementing SASE in your organisation, get in touch today.