Traditional network security models just don’t meet the mark anymore
82% of workers would prefer to work remotely at least one day a week. There’s plenty to say about the push for hybrid working, but one sticking point has always been around security. Attack surfaces are growing, and data is more valuable than ever.
Quite frankly, it’s causing quite a conundrum.
Traditional WANs and Firewalls don’t always meet the demands of a hybrid and distributed working model. Employees are more reliant on cloud-based apps than ever before, and reliable, consistent connections are a must-have.
It’s why businesses are starting to turn to a service that combines networking and security capabilities. Thanks to the components behind a secure access service edge (SASE) solution, and support from a managed service provider (MSP) like Gamma, remote workers are in safe hands.
SD-WAN-derful
One of the main components of SASE is Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN). This virtual, centralised architecture provides an efficient interconnectivity between remote and office-based users within the cloud environment. Traffic can be controlled and directed, using real-time insights to find the best path for data to take.
It’s compatible with multiple types of WAN connections, such as multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), giving remote workers a fast, low-latency connection.
SD-WAN’s reliability and speed also comes with advanced security features. Data encryption, and network segmentation all help to keep every device on the network’s edge secure. While those remote workers enjoy better network performance, their data is all being kept safe.
Putting the SSE in SASE
Gamma’s SASE solution integrates SD-WAN and Security Service Edge (SSE). This cloud-based architecture contains the security components and credentials that organisations need. The SSE portfolio is composed of:
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
- Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
- Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
Each plays its own part in giving SASE that edge when it comes to remote worker security, which is supported by a reliable networking infrastructure.
Zero trust reduces risk
If you assume that all users and devices are up to no good, then internal resources can be kept safe. Constant vigilance can be the defining factor between a watertight network, or a leaky network. That’s the driving principle behind ZTNA.
ZTNA means every device, user, and network must be verified and authenticated to guarantee robust security. That previously defined network perimeter no longer exists in a hybrid working world, and all traffic is treated as a potential hostile threat. Access is granted on the idea of least privilege, with users only gaining access to the resources they need.
Gartner has already predicted that, by 2025, ZTNA will have replaced VPNs. Given its integral part of a SASE solution, we can see why it’s picking up in popularity.
The (gate)way is shut
68% of cybersecurity breaches in 2024 were caused through human error. An organisation’s security posture heavily relies on the person sitting in front of a computer. With more and more people going remote, security policies must be consistent, and rigidly enforced, across the entire network.
An SWG utilises tools such as data loss prevention and URL filtering to stop malicious traffic breaching a network. Threats like ransomware and phishing can be kept at arm’s length, as SWG restricts access to any websites that aren’t compliant or just look a bit dodgy. Either way, it keeps sensitive data out of the hands of nefarious entities.
Keeping the cloud secure
Almost everyone seems to be using cloud technology nowadays. 96% of companies are using public cloud technology, and 84% currently use private cloud service. Remote workers rely heavily on robust cloud security to use cloud-based applications such as Salesforce and Microsoft 365.
While these apps boost collaboration, that larger attack surface and a potentially unsecured home network can put all that productivity asunder.
SSE leverages CASB technology to sit between end users and the cloud service. CASBs can monitor and secure cloud applications, while enforcing data loss prevention (DLP) policies and detecting any kind of abnormal behaviour. That consistent, real-time monitoring reduces the risk of remote workers falling foul of data breaches.
A new kind of firewall
Traditional firewalls were designed to protect data within an on-premises environment. Surging cloud network demands made it difficult for these classic firewalls to scale appropriately. With threats becoming more sophisticated and costly, those firewalls can’t sit by in a data centre and invite danger.
FWaaS is delivered via the cloud and can scale with those demands to keep remote workers secure. Policies are controlled through a centralised platform, guaranteeing a consistent and scalable service across the network. It’s a critical part of making sure those policies apply to all workers.
Uniform security policies
Perhaps one of the biggest drawbacks to remote working is the differing level of experiences. That can be applied to security policies too, especially with so many employees using devices in various locations. It’s crucial for businesses to make sure that those policies are consistently enforced across that network.
SASE gives organisations the perfect way to keep those security policies consistent by having a cloud-based nature. Those based in an office enjoy the same security privileges as those working remotely. That uniformity eliminates any security gaps that are associated with traditional security architectures, which are often limited when operating over different locations
The AI potential
Look, we know that everyone’s sick of hearing about AI and all the potential behind it. But when that attack surface is growing and data breach costs are set to hit an average of $5 million in 2025, you can’t afford to take that risk. Businesses need all the help they can get.
Cisco’s own SSE architecture provides AI processing capabilities that influences how their own security policies are formed. Large language models can detect AI-generated content and restrict data sharing measures with these AI applications. Thanks to AI-powered access and security integration, these policies can become smarter and deal with the emerging challenges posed with AI-generated assets.
Suffice to say that all the amazing things that come with the SASE framework can only come about with that strong, reliable network.
SASE has the edge
Remote work will continue to evolve, and business need to apply solutions that keeps the expanding network safe. SASE provides that comprehensive, cloud-based security framework that helps remote workers stay productive, connected, and, above all, secure.
The combination of networking and security means that all the incredible components SASE provides only work if the network is reliable. Thanks to Gamma’s managed network solution suite, organisations conscious about their efficiency and security can enjoy the full benefits of SASE without the fear that network connectivity comes up short.
SASE certainly has the edge, but it’s the seamless integration between networking and security that makes it whole.