Why unified secure access service edge is the next critical evolution in secure network architecture
Cyber threats are continuously evolving as cybercrimes become increasingly sophisticated, forcing enterprises to rethink their approach to network security. The Australian Signals Directorate's (ASD) Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) recently published an advisory on the use of information stealer malware, and the risks organisations face with disparate networks and environments. It's clear that traditional methods of network security are no longer sufficient; the future of secure networking lies in the adoption of unified secure access service edge (SASE) solutions, according to Fortinet.
The shift towards remote work and the widespread adoption of cloud-based applications have changed the security landscape significantly. Companies can no longer rely on perimeter-based security models as the perimeter has dissolved, and employees are accessing resources from a variety of locations and devices. Businesses need a unified approach to secure access that can adapt to these changes and protect increasingly complex, modern, and distributed networks. Unified SASE addresses these challenges by extending security controls to wherever the user or application resides. This capability is essential for protecting data and ensuring compliance with regulations, regardless of where the network boundary lies.
Unified SASE integrates network and security functions into a single cloud-native service, ensuring secure access no matter where employees or applications are located. It combines various security services, including firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), secure web gateway (SWG), and zero trust network access (ZTNA), into one cohesive framework. This consolidation simplifies security architecture, reducing the need for multiple point products that are often difficult to manage. The result is a more streamlined and efficient approach to securing network access.
The integration of network and security functions through SASE provides a holistic view of network activity. This unified approach improves an organisation's security posture significantly through real-time threat detection and response. Companies can scale their security measures as their network grows without compromising performance or user experience by leveraging cloud-based security services. Unified SASE also reduces the potential for security controls to impede access to applications or data. This is particularly important when employees expect seamless access to corporate resources from any location. Businesses can use unified SASE implementations to guarantee secure and consistent access, driving productivity while maintaining robust security.
The move to unified SASE requires careful planning and execution. Organisations must assess their current network and security infrastructure to identify gaps that unified SASE can fill. It's crucial to evaluate existing security controls, understand workforce needs, and determine the right mix of SASE services to deploy before implementing a solution. A phased approach to SASE adoption can help companies transition smoothly without disrupting operations.
The need for a unified and adaptive security framework like SASE will only grow as businesses continue to evolve, and organisations should view unified SASE as a strategic investment in their future security capabilities. The benefits extend beyond just protecting the network; unified SASE also supports digital transformation initiatives with secure access to cloud services and remote work environments. Crucially, this approach ensures that security is always on, providing continuous protection against threats no matter where they originate.
The future of networking is secure, flexible, and unified. Unified SASE is the next step in this evolution, offering a solution that meets the needs of modern enterprises. Companies can secure their networks, protect their data, and support their workforce by adopting unified SASE, all while staying ahead of the ever-changing threat landscape.
The convergence of networking and security through SASE is a natural progression in the digital age. It's a scalable and adaptable framework response to the challenges posed by remote work, cloud adoption, and the increasing sophistication of cyber threats. The future of secure networking depends on the ability to integrate security into every aspect of the network, and unified SASE gives businesses the requisite tools to achieve this goal.
