What Is SASE? And How Is It Different From A VPN?
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Many companies are used to the idea of operating a virtual private network (VPN), but SASE is becoming much trendier lately. It’s changing the way companies work and fundamentally rewriting their security architecture.
So, what exactly is SASE, and how can it help your business?
What is SASE?
SASE stands for Secure Access Service Edge. It is an extension of Edge Cloud Computing, which businesses have been focusing on for some time. Originally coined by Gartner, SASE is not a single thing or piece of hardware. It is a framework you can use to secure your business’s online presence. SASE has two parts:
- SD-WAN strategy: moving data efficiently across the globe
- Security (SSE): using various secure web gateways, zero-trust access, and firewalls
The idea is to combine both of these, rather than running all traffic through a physical data centre. It keeps everything at the edge, meaning that all user interactions happen in the cloud, with a cloud server at the nearest point of contact.
This all sounds complicated, but it’s not particularly advanced technology anymore. If you run a business, you should seriously consider whether SASE is something you want at your firm. It can make life much more convenient for everyone in your organisation.
SASE versus VPNs: what are the differences?
The differences between SASE and VPNs are substantial. VPNs are essentially a tunnel that protects your internet data from being revealed to the wider world. SA SE is more like a global security operation.
Traditional VPNs are based on the concept of “trust but verify.” The idea is that once you’re in, you’re in. SASE goes beyond that and uses a zero-trust architecture. The idea is to never trust and always verify.
VPNs can be slow due to bottlenecks and what’s sometimes called backhauling. That’s one of the constraints, and it can lead to high latency that increases with the level of protection the user needs.
SASE architectures are different. They’re fast because they connect directly to global cloud networks at the edge. Users get exactly what they need right away, without having to go through multiple steps or layers. With VPNs, it’s hard to see what a user is doing once they connect. With SASE, there’s complete visibility across the platform, which makes it easier for businesses to monitor what everyone on the network is doing, including high-level employees and management.
On top of this, SASE services have a scalability advantage because they’re cloud-native and can scale instantly to millions of users. That’s not true of VPNs, which are limited by the hardware in a specific office.
Why are SASE systems replacing VPNs?
Given these reasons, it’s clear why SASE is replacing VPNs at the business level. The core components of SASE work together in a way that supports how companies operate. Many use zero-trust network access, which goes beyond caring about IP addresses and focuses more on identity and device hygiene.
Ultimately, a VPN is a pipe that protects user data from outside interference. SA/SE is more cloud-based comprehensive security.