Definition and Overview
Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), introduced by Gartner in 2019, is a cloud-native architecture that combines wide-area networking (WAN) capabilities with comprehensive security functions. It delivers these services from the edge, close to users and devices, to support distributed workforces and cloud-based applications.
Core Components of SASE
- Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN): Optimizes traffic routing for performance and cost.
- Secure Web Gateway (SWG): Filters web traffic to block threats and enforce policies.
- Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): Provides visibility and control over SaaS applications.
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): Grants access based on identity and context, not location.
- Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS): Offers next-gen firewall protection in the cloud.
- Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Prevents sensitive data exfiltration.
SASE shifts from perimeter-based security to a zero-trust model, enforcing policies at Points of Presence (PoPs) worldwide for low-latency access.
Evolution and Market Trends
According to Gartner, by 2028, 70% of SD-WAN purchases will be part of single-vendor SASE platforms. This reflects the need for converged solutions in hybrid environments.