Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a network architecture that combines networking and security functions into a single cloud-delivered service model. It enables secure access to applications and data regardless of the user's location.

2.1 Definitions

• SASE: A framework that merges networking and security services into a single cloud-based solution.
• SD-WAN: Software-Defined Wide Area Networking, a key component of SASE that optimizes the delivery of applications over WAN.
• Zero Trust: Security model that assumes no user or device is trustworthy by default, requiring verification at every access attempt.

The SASE architecture is built upon several core components:

1. Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
2. Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
3. Firewall as a Service (FWaaS)
4. SD-WAN capabilities
5. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

                graph TD;
                    A[User] --> B[Identity Verification];
                    B --> C[Access Control];
                    C --> D{Application Access};
                    D -->|Allowed| E[Service Edge];
                    D -->|Denied| F[Access Denied];
                

4.1 Step-by-Step Process

1. Assess current network and security posture.
2. Select a SASE vendor that fits your organizational needs.
3. Design a migration strategy to transition from legacy systems.
4. Implement the components of the SASE architecture.
5. Monitor and optimize the SASE deployment for performance and security.

• Prioritize a Zero Trust approach to secure user access.
• Regularly review and update security policies.
• Ensure visibility into all network traffic.
• Train users on security awareness and best practices.