SASE Vs Zero Trust Security For Enterprises

Businesses rely on a vast amount of sensitive data such as customer information, financial records, and intellectual property. But this data is at risk today. Cybercriminals can steal this data, and use it for unethical purposes. This can result in economic losses, reputational damage, and legal repercussions.

Due to the continuous cyberattack increases, enterprises now must have strong cybersecurity systems. The two most prominent cybersecurity systems businesses can adopt are SASE and Zero Trust.

Below, in this well-researched informational blog, we will explain SASE, Zero Trust, how these systems work, and

What is SASE?

SASE stands for secure access service edge. To explain it in a layman's concept SASE means a security approach that combines networking and security functions into a unified platform.

In 2019, when Covid was at its peak and homeworking rapidly multiplied network endpoints, Gartner introduced SASE.

SASE provides multiple networks and cloud security functions making the data more secure. Some of the main capabilities, services and software that SASE have are listed below:

1. Zero trust network access
2. Cloud-secure web gateways
3. Firewall as a service
4. Software-defined wide area network
5. Cloud access security broker
6. Secure Email Gateways
7. Sand Boxing

Traditionally, companies needed separate tools for security and for managing their computer network. SASE combines these into one easier-to-use system, like having everything in one toolbox. This makes it simpler to set up security rules and have them apply to everything on the network.

What is Zero Trust?

Zero Trust treats everyone like a new guest, inside or outside the company. They all need to prove who they are (authentication) and show their membership card (authorization) to get in. It's like having vigilant bouncers who constantly confirm membership and make sure everyone's following the rules.

Even if they sneak past the initial check, they won't be able to access anything valuable without proper authorization.

In the past, companies used a system like a keycard to control who could access computers and data. This worked fine when everything was kept on-site, behind a locked door.

But today, things aren't all in one place anymore (distributed computing). The old keycard system wouldn't work well for a company with many locations or people working remotely.

SASE and Zero Trust: What’s the Difference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between SASE and traditional network security systems?

SASE integrates cloud-delivered security functions (FWaaS, SWG, CASB) with SD-WAN for dynamic, policy-based access control. While traditional network security relies on static perimeter defences (firewalls) and separate on-premises security tools.

Is SASE better than VPN?

Yes, SASE offers broader security (firewalls, access control) than VPNs (tunnelling), and works better for cloud applications.

Who should use SASE?

Businesses with remote workforces or heavy cloud use should consider SASE for its secure, flexible access to applications.

Is Zero Trust the future of enterprise security?

Zero Trust's "never trust" approach is a strong future candidate for enterprise security, but it works best alongside other tools for a complete solution.

Final Thoughts

To conclude, both SASE and Zero Trust offer robust security solutions for enterprises in today's evolving technological landscape. While SASE offers a comprehensive security toolkit, implementing it can be more complex. On the other hand, Zero Trust is a foundational security principle that can be implemented with various tools, making it potentially easier to adopt.

The best approach might be a combination of both. SASE can provide the security tools needed to implement a zero-trust architecture, while Zero Trust can ensure a more secure access control strategy within the SASE framework.