Securing sensitive data becomes increasingly complicated as hybrid and fully remote environments become prevalent. Traditional security models fail in distributed IT environments, where every network-connected device represents a potential risk.
Businesses can overcome the challenges of modern networking with flexible, scalable, and evolving security measures. Two critical approaches to cloud security are secure access service edge (SASE) and zero trust. SASE comprises leading network technologies available as a single solution, usually SD-WAN, SSE, secure VPN, and CASB. Zero trust is a security framework that references the overall security fabric rather than any specific technology. Instead, it is a set of principles and best practices across the security landscape. No single vendor or product currently offers a complete zero trust offering. However, SASE is a vital element of zero trust.
This post compares SASE and zero trust, defining how these two interconnected security approaches strengthen the security fabric of your organization both separately and combined.
Learn more: Three vital tactics for embedding cloud network security
On a fundamental level, the movement in cybersecurity over the past several years has been to consolidate and simplify security solutions. Zero trust and SASE emerged due to this trend to help network managers facilitate their networking tools and gain greater visibility. A zero trust framework and SASE solution offer streamlined tools without sacrificing security.
Zero trust is not a technology but a set of principles for consolidating existing security technologies. NIST and CISA define zero trust across five pillars:
As organizations begin implementing a zero-trust security model, they can leverage various techniques and tools such as multifactor authentication (MFA), next-gen extended detection and response (XDR), data encryption, e-mail security, and password hygiene to secure each infrastructure pillar. However, it's important to note that zero trust is not limited to these solutions and may evolve based on emerging security trends and business requirements.
On the other hand, the SASEsuite of complementary technologies is a core element of zero trust. By merging SD-WAN, SSE, VPN, and CASB into a single networking product, SASE addresses issues critical to cloud-based networks. Like zero trust, SASE also operates across several pillars.
Read more: Core advantages of a managed secure access service edge solution
Zero trust and SASE overlap in their focus. However, they are not interchangeable.
Security tends to integrate, streamline, and centralize operations. OnX recommends implementing a zero trust security framework with the appropriate SASE solution (or solutions) for your organization. This approach demonstrates the following benefits:
Combining SASE and zero trust into a unified solution ensures your organization’s security fabric is as robust as possible.
In security, it's not SASE versus zero trust. Instead, the goal is zero trust; for many organizations, SASE represents a significant step towards that goal.
SASE implements network protections for your organization. However, deploying SASE can be cumbersome for many IT departments, spanning months or years.
In some ways, zero trust is more straightforward, as a company can begin its journey toward better security from wherever its current security efforts lie. Most enterprises can immediately start the first steps, resulting in swift security ROI. Creating a zero trust roadmap will streamline the process and maximize the benefits for your organization.
Consult with our team today to determine your specific security needs and build a custom security plan to encompass zero trust, SASE, and other security solutions your organization needs to defend against evolving security threats.