Your Guide to Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

As organisations increasingly embrace digital transformation, securing their networks has become paramount. A comprehensive approach to network security, known as Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), offers a unified solution to this challenge. This blog provides a detailed guide to help organisations effectively implement SASE and bolster their security posture. 

Understanding SASE 

SASE converges multiple network security functions into a single, cloud-delivered service. This integrated approach simplifies network management, enhances security, and improves user experience. Key components of SASE include: 

• Zero-Trust Network Architecture (ZTNA): A cyber security model that operates on the principle of “never trust, always verify.” Unlike traditional security frameworks, ZTNA doesn’t grant access based on location within a network; instead, it rigorously verifies every user and device’s identity and security posture before allowing access to resources.  

• SD-WAN: Software-Defined Wide Area Network optimises network traffic and reduces latency. 

• Firewall as a Service (FWaaS): A cloud-based security service that provides firewall protection. It offers advanced security features comparable to a traditional Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) but delivered as a service. Typically includes cloud-native architecture, centralised management and threat protection.  

• Secure Web Gateway (SWG): Filters web traffic to prevent malicious attacks. 

• Content Access Security Broker (CASB): A security tool that provides oversight and control over the data and applications used in a cloud environment. It acts as a gatekeeper between cloud service users and cloud applications, enabling organisations to extend the reach of their security policies beyond their own infrastructure. 

Further definitions can be accessed in the Data Connect Glossary.  

SASE Roadmap:

1. Assess Current Network Infrastructure: 

• Evaluate existing network architecture, security solutions, and performance metrics. 

• Identify potential gaps and areas for improvement. 

• Consider future business needs and scalability requirements. 

2. Define SASE Goals and Objectives: 

• Clearly articulate the desired outcomes of SASE implementation. 

• Align SASE goals with overall business objectives and risk management strategies. 

• Prioritise specific use cases and target areas for initial deployment. 

3. Select a SASE Provider: 

• Research reputable SASE vendors and their offerings. 

• Evaluate vendor capabilities, service level agreements, and pricing models. 

• Consider factors such as global reach, integration with existing systems, and support services. 

4. Develop a Migration Strategy: 

• Plan a phased approach to minimise disruption and ensure a smooth transition. 

• Identify critical applications and prioritise their migration. 

• Develop a comprehensive migration plan, including timelines, resource allocation, and testing procedures. 

5. Implement SASE Components: 

• Configure SD-WAN to optimise network performance and security. 

• Deploy FWaaS to protect against threats and enforce security policies. 

• Implement SWG to filter web traffic and prevent unauthorised access. 

• Configure ZTNA to enforce granular access controls and minimise risk. 

• Integrate CASB to secure cloud applications and data. 

6. Test and Validate: 

• Conduct thorough testing to validate SASE functionality and performance. 

• Simulate various attack scenarios to assess security effectiveness. 

• Monitor network traffic and user experience to identify and address issues. 

7. Monitor and Optimise: 

• Continuously monitor network performance, security events, and user experience. 

• Utilise advanced analytics and threat intelligence to detect and respond to threats. 

• Fine-tune SASE configurations to optimise performance and security. 

8. User Training and Awareness: 

• Provide comprehensive training to IT staff on SASE technologies and best practices. 

• Educate end-users about security best practices and the importance of strong password hygiene. 

• Establish clear guidelines for remote access and device security. 

By following this Guide to SASE, you can significantly enhance your network security posture, improve operational efficiency, and enable seamless digital transformation. 

Data Connect: Network Security Experts 

Whilst there are various benefits to SASE, there is one common concern about how it puts a lot of eggs in one basket, with a single vendor and single place for faults. This is why it is critical to choose the right vendor and above all, apply the right configurations.​  

That is where Data Connect can help. Our team have the necessary certifications, experience and practical knowledge from working with organisations of all sectors and sizes. Our team of security and network specialists are highly experienced not only in solution design but also implementation and management.

Are you unsure if SASE is right for your organisation? Engage in a comprehensive whiteboarding session where we take into account your current network design and your security/network objectives, then devise a strategic plan forward either with SASE in mind or a traditional networking and firewall infrastructure.

Get in touch today to book your complementary session.