Managed Service Providers (MSPs) operate in a dynamic landscape where clients demand robust, scalable, and flexible security solutions. The advent of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) represents a paradigm shift in network security, offering a transformative approach over traditional firewalls. This solution brief outlines why MSPs should choose to deploy SASE rather than relying on conventional firewall solutions.
|
No |
What to look for? |
SASE |
Traditional Firewall |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Global, Cloud-native Architecture | SASE integrates security services directly into the cloud, providing a global and scalable architecture. This is especially crucial as organizations increasingly adopt cloud-based applications and services. | Traditional firewalls, typically on-premises, struggle to provide the same level of scalability and flexibility as SASE in a cloud-centric environment. |
| 2 | User-centric Security | Focuses on user-centric security, ensuring protection for users regardless of their location or device. With an identity-driven approach, SASE adapts to the modern workforce's distributed nature. | Traditional firewalls may face challenges in extending security protections to users beyond the confines of a physical office, leading to potential security gaps. |
| 3 | Integrated SD-WAN Functionality | Combines security with Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) functionality, streamlining network infrastructure and ensuring optimal performance. | Traditional firewalls may necessitate separate SD-WAN solutions, leading to increased complexity and potential interoperability challenges. |
| 4 | Zero Trust Security Model | Embraces a Zero Trust security model, verifying and authenticating every user and device attempting to access the network. This approach minimizes the attack surface and enhances overall security posture. | While firewalls have evolved to incorporate some Zero Trust principles, the inherent architecture may not provide the same comprehensive and integrated approach as SASE. |
| 5 | Multi-layered Security Policies | Allows MSPs to configure multi-layered and granular security policies, ensuring comprehensive protection against a wide range of threats. | Traditional firewalls may have limitations in supporting complex and layered security policies, potentially leading to security blind spots. |
| 6 | Unified Management and Visibility | Offers a single-pane-of-glass management interface, providing MSPs with centralized visibility and control over security policies and events. | Managing multiple on-premises firewalls across diverse client environments may introduce complexities, hindering efficient administration. |
| 7 | Fast Time to Value and Operational Efficiency | Facilitates a faster time to value, allowing MSPs to deploy and configure security services efficiently, enhancing overall operational efficiency. | Traditional firewall deployments may require longer lead times, potentially delaying the delivery of security services to clients. |
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, MSPs need solutions that are adaptive, user-centric, and seamlessly scalable. Deploying SASE over traditional firewalls empowers MSPs with a holistic, cloud-native security approach that aligns with the demands of modern businesses. The integrated SD-WAN functionality, Zero Trust model, and unified management make SASE the strategic choice for MSPs seeking to deliver advanced and efficient security services to their clients. As organizations continue to embrace digital transformation, the agility and flexibility offered by SASE position MSPs as proactive guardians of their clients' digital assets.