As you might already know, SASE is one of the latest cybersecurity frameworks on the market. This makes it both reliable and confusing sometimes. Since this framework is a new concept to most of us, understanding it the right way might be a challenge.
There is no doubt that SASE is a great security framework, but the internet is full of SASE myths that cause misunderstandings. That’s why we chose the five most common misconceptions about SASE and debunked them.
What is the SASE framework?
SASE is a comprehensive security architecture described by Gartner in 2019. The main focus of the SASE is to bring security and connectivity tools together for an extensive but easy-to-operate network structure.
The model uses wide-area networking as the main tool for connectivity; the security part can include cloud VPNs, Zero Trust, and FWaaS. This holistic structure enables edge-to-edge security all over the network and facilitates network protection.
SASE controls access and delivers identity-based, context-specific, and policy-compliant security to business networks. It’s perfectly applicable to any network even if its users are remote.
In this framework, security is not limited to specific locations, devices, or users. All acknowledged end-users are provided with secure access to the resources.
Put simply, the SASE framework is an answer to increasing traffic due to the high numbers of remote users and cloud applications on networks. It secures this complicated traffic by unifying security and connectivity services.
Debunked: Five common SASE misconceptions
#1: SASE is complicated & hard to implement
The first misconception about SASE is being complicated and hard to acquire. Since this model combines several services, some might think it’s complicated. But it is actually the opposite.
Most VPN providers offer SASE implementation, and since they have the necessary security services SASE requires, adoption is easier than ever. These companies also take care of all deployment, operation, and maintenance processes.
Zero Trust, FWaaS, or CASB; all of these are available in VPN providers. You can check out NordLayer (https://nordlayer.com/sase/) to see how easy it is to implement SASE.
#2: SASE is only useful for larger businesses
Since SASE offers edge-to-edge wide security, some people think it’s most suitable for larger businesses with several branches. That’s actually not true.
SASE is perfect for smaller businesses that don’t want to invest a huge budget in cybersecurity. Most of the services in a SASE architecture are cloud-native, making expensive hardware unnecessary. Plus, if you get it from a VPN provider, you won’t need a dedicated IT security team.
#3: SASE is a product
SASE is not a product on its own. It’s a security framework that brings several network and cybersecurity products together in a holistic structure. These products may include SD-WAN, CASB, or firewalls.
It’s important to consider SASE as a selection of proven services that collectively create flawless network security and connectivity. If you come across SASE providers offering the framework as a product, you should back away.
#4: Zero Trust and SASE is the same thing
No, they’re not the same thing, because they don’t belong in the same league. SASE is a comprehensive framework whereas the Zero Trust is mainly a verification process approach.
First of all, remember that SASE and Zero Trust are not competitor security frameworks or services. On the contrary, Zero Trust is one of the most crucial parts of the SASE. Most SASE architectures include this verification approach in the security services they use.
Zero Trust is integral to SASE, and in the same way, SASE helps a Zero Trust approach function better. Check out Security Magazine’s explanation of the difference between the two.
#5: SASE can’t be implemented gradually
Some people back off from the idea of implementing a SASE architecture for their networks thinking that they need to do it at once. But SASE can be implemented gradually without a problem.
You can use the security services within the SASE framework as a stepping stone until you do it completely. For example, use Zero Trust in your existing network structure, making the system familiar to your users.
Another beauty of SASE is the ability to integrate with the existing network structure and solutions. You can adopt the new services and still use the existing ones for a while.
Conclusion
The SASE framework is a modern approach to cybersecurity that gets rid of operational complexity and expensive structures. It’s the perfect way to combine all aspects of a private network; connectivity, security, and access.
But with the increasing popularity of SASE on the internet, misconceptions about the framework roam around. These myths may deter people from using SASE or make them expect more than it is.
That’s why we believed these misconceptions needed to be debunked; it’s important you understand SASE properly before thinking about adopting it.