SASE (Secure Access Service Edge):

SASE, pronounced as “sassy,” is an innovative network architecture that combines network security and wide area networking (WAN) capabilities into a unified cloud-based service. The concept was introduced by Gartner in 2019 to address the evolving needs of modern businesses, which often require secure and optimized access to cloud-based applications and resources for a dispersed workforce.

The key features of SASE include:

1. Cloud-Centric Approach: SASE shifts the focus of network and security services from traditional on-premises solutions to a cloud-based architecture. It integrates security and networking functionalities into a unified cloud service, providing scalability, flexibility, and reduced complexity.
2. Secure Access: SASE aims to provide secure access to applications, data, and services for users regardless of their location, whether they are in the office, at home, or on the go. This is especially important with the rise of remote work and mobile employees.
3. Converged Services: SASE consolidates various network security services, such as secure web gateways (SWG), firewall as a service (FWaaS), secure access service edge (SASE), and software-defined WAN (SD-WAN), into a single platform.
4. Identity-Centric Security: SASE emphasizes identity-based security, where access to resources is granted based on user identity, device security posture, and contextual factors, rather than merely relying on network perimeters.
5. Global PoPs (Points of Presence): SASE services often leverage a global network of PoPs to provide low-latency access and improved performance for users accessing cloud applications and resources.
6. Zero Trust Security Model: SASE aligns with the Zero Trust security model, treating all network traffic as potentially untrusted and applying strict authentication and access controls.
7. Dynamic Policy Enforcement: SASE dynamically applies security policies and traffic routing based on real-time conditions, ensuring optimal performance and security.

When evaluating service providers for SASE solutions, Xaris Technology will consider the following factors:

1. Security Features: Assess the provider’s security capabilities, including data encryption, threat detection, malware protection, and secure authentication methods.
2. Network Performance: Evaluate the provider’s global network infrastructure and PoPs to ensure low-latency access to cloud resources.
3. Compliance and Regulations: Check if the SASE solution complies with industry regulations and standards relevant to your business.
4. Identity Management: Verify the provider’s ability to support robust identity management and access control mechanisms.
5. Scalability: Ensure that the SASE solution can scale to accommodate your organization’s growth and changing needs.
6. User Experience: Test the user experience of accessing cloud applications and resources through the SASE service.
7. Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Review the SLAs offered by the provider, including uptime guarantees, response times, and resolution times for incidents.
8. Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Ensure that the SASE solution can integrate seamlessly with your existing network and security infrastructure.
9. Cost and Pricing Model: Compare the pricing structure and total cost of ownership for the SASE service.
10. Customer Support: Assess the quality and responsiveness of the provider’s customer support, especially for resolving security-related issues promptly.
11. Vendor Reputation and References: Seek customer references and read reviews to gauge the provider’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

By carefully evaluating these factors, Xaris Technology will help you select a reliable and effective SASE service provider that aligns with their security and networking needs, enabling secure, agile, and efficient access to cloud-based resources for their workforce.  Use the form attached to this page or call us at 1(888) 58-XARIS to schedule an appointment.