The threat that businesses of all sizes face from cyberattacks has never been more pressing. Globally, cybercriminals are using new tools like AI to launch more complex attacks and in greater volume. Meanwhile, the shift to cloud services and the growth in remote work have made it significantly harder for organisations to keep their networks safe.
As cloud environments become more complex, traditional network and security models that rely on siloed, location-specific tools can no longer meet the demands of organisations. This has led to the emergence of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), a new standard for organisations looking for a dynamic and high-performing security model. However, adopting SASE can be challenging, and it often requires guidance from experienced partners.
The evolution of network security and the rise of SASE
Traditionally, network security focused on protecting the defined boundaries of an organisation’s network. This protection relied on solutions like Wide Area Networks (WAN) and remote user Virtual Private Networks (VPN), along with various other, siloed security tools. However, with the rise of cloud computing, the Internet of Things (IoT), and remote work, these boundaries have dissolved. This has given rise to new challenges that require a more flexible and comprehensive approach to security.
SASE revolutionises the traditional network and security landscape by integrating multiple security functions into a single, cloud-native platform. By combining capabilities like SD-WAN and zero-trust network access (ZTNA), it delivers consistent connectivity and security from anywhere through a single, cloud-based service.
The benefits of SASE are not just limited to IT teams either. Today, many enterprises still use VPNs to connect users to their networks for security. However, the latency issues inherent in VPNs often deliver a poor user experience. With SASE, security is enforced close to what needs securing. Instead of sending the user to the security, it sends security to the user while optimising the user’s connection to the cloud, ensuring low latency.
At its core, SASE enables companies to create a unified, cloud-delivered security model that supports dynamic, secure access. This simplifies management and reduces IT costs while delivering an improved experience for users, enabling them to focus on critical business tasks.
Role of channel partners
SASE has emerged as the best solution for digitally-driven organisations that need to secure their data everywhere and provide employees with secure, fast access to applications wherever they are logging on from. As a result, Gartner estimates the SASE market to grow to US $25 billion by 2027, as CIOs globally recognise it as a necessity for their organisations.
When broken down, SASE has two fundamental components. This begins with a network layer, which lays the foundation for any digital transformation project. Next is the security layer, which ensures the organisation has the best protection against attacks. In both instances, effectively integrating the components is essential. Therefore, organisations need to carefully assess how a SASE solution will integrate with their current setup and prepare for any compatibility issues that might arise.
An end-to-end SASE solution can be complex and challenging to implement, operate and maintain. A partnership approach is therefore essential to ensure best practices and the right solutions are chosen for each organisation’s needs.
When selecting a vendor, partners should seek a provider with adaptive network technology, global connectivity and security tools that incorporate cloud security functions. The ideal service provider should also offer professional services. These include services such as solution architects, design engineers and technical managers to help alleviate any skill gaps by extending the customers’ security team.
Palo Alto Networks has strategically developed its SASE solutions to tackle the complex challenges of modern network environments. By integrating advanced threat protection, real-time visibility, and consistent policy enforcement across all locations and users, ensuring that security enhancements do not compromise performance.
The telco advantage
Connectivity is essential to a true SASE solution, that can be deployed as near to the endpoint or user as possible and designed to optimise user experience. This necessitates the active involvement of telco partners to minimise disruptions arising from connectivity issues. Telecom providers, with their extensive network infrastructures, are therefore essential in the SASE ecosystem.
We are already seeing telco partners embrace the opportunity that SASE presents. For example, Australian telecom provider Superloop utilises its extensive network to offer comprehensive connectivity that integrates Palo Alto Networks’ SASE security features. This ensures optimal network performance and a smooth user experience for data-intensive applications.
As digital transformation continues to evolve, SASE stands out as a strategic imperative for businesses looking to secure their networks comprehensively and dynamically. For partners, aligning with Palo Alto Networks’ SASE solutions offers a pathway to not just meet but anticipate the security needs of the future, ensuring resilience and competitiveness in a rapidly changing digital economy.
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