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SASE vs SD-WAN: The Difference Between Them

Published on:
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18 min read

Organizations employ wide area networks (WANs), which are made up of several local area networks connected to one another, to connect users and locations to the internet, cloud applications, and the internal network. Initially, Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), a technique that uses labels instead of addresses to route data over a private network using the shortest path possible, was used to do this. MPLS is no longer sufficient in today's technologically advanced world, which is embracing cloud computing and experiencing a continuous digital revolution. It is location-specific, has restricted bandwidth, and is reasonably priced.

Although Secure Access Service Edge (SASE, pronounced "sassy") is a relatively recent technology, SD-WAN (Software Defined Wide Area Network) has been extensively utilized for more than ten years. While it does the same tasks as SD-WAN, its main goal is to increase connection security.

SASE offers a dynamic network security solution that moves the perimeter to cloud-native capabilities by integrating SD-WAN with cloud-based security features. On the other hand, SD-WAN makes use of software-defined networking concepts to join branch sites to a central private network, with the primary goal of securely connecting users across locations.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of both SASE and SD-WAN technologies, and how do they operate? Our paper provides a thorough comparison between SASE and SD-WAN.

  • What does SASE Mean?

    • How does SASE Work?

    • What are the Features of SASE?

    • How is the Implementation of SASE?

  • What is SD-WAN?

    • How does SD-WAN Work

    • What are the Features of SD-WAN?

    • What are the Benefits of SD-WAN?

    • What are the Limitations of SD-WAN?

  • Why do customers need SD-WAN?

    • Is SD-WAN a firewall?

    • Is SD-WAN Secure?

  • What are the difference Between SASE and SD-WAN?

  • What are the Advantages of SASE Network of SD-WAN?

  • What are the Disadvantages of SASE Network of SD-WAN?

  • How SASE in Security Compare to SD-WAN?

    • Can SASE and SD-WAN Work Together?

  • How is the Deployment from SASE and SD-WAN?

  • How does SASE compare to SD-WAN in terms of Deployment?

What Does SASE Mean?​

A cloud-native architecture known as Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) integrates security technologies such as FWaaS, CASB, SWG, and ZTNA with SD-WAN into a single service. Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), secure web gateways, and sophisticated digital identity recognition technologies are just a few of the security features SASE provides.

The technology research and consulting firm Gartner is credited with introducing the SASE idea in a study titled "The Future of Network Security is in the Cloud", published in August 2019. According to the research, SASE is the next generation of SD-WAN that leverages cloud computing technologies to provide data with the highest level of security and the lowest possible latency. Performance and dependability are the two main benefits of SASE, which is considered a significant invention in the IT sector.

Networking and security as a service are combined into a single cloud-delivered service at the network edge using a SASE architecture. Instead of routing traffic to corporate data centers, this enables a company to seamlessly accommodate dispersed distant, and hybrid clients by connecting them to local cloud gateways. In addition, it keeps complete visibility and inspection of all traffic across all ports and protocols and offers reliable, secure access to all applications.

Secure access service edge, being cloud-based, makes it possible for a network to be more dynamic and high-performing, able to adjust to changing business needs, a shifting threat landscape, and new technologies that will shape your network's future.

With SASE, businesses can reduce the risk of breach and data loss with optimal security posture, improve access to global applications both on-premises and in the cloud, and eliminate the effort and expenses associated with maintaining complex and fragmented infrastructure made of point solutions.

How Does SASE Work?​

If your users are in your data center, traditional techniques of inspection and verification, such as routing traffic through a multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) service, are effective. However, because so many people now work remotely, "hairpinning" -sending traffic from remote users to your data center for inspection and then returning it- has a negative impact on productivity and the end-user experience.

No matter where the resources are located, hybrid and remote workers can operate from anywhere with safe access to company apps, data, and services thanks to SASE. By combining cloud-delivered security services with cutting-edge networking capabilities, SASE protects hybrid work and increases worker productivity by providing constantly secure access and edge-to-edge connections.

It integrates complete security services controlled in the cloud with WAN functionalities required in branches, such as routing, segmentation, SD-WAN, zone-based firewalls, and WAN optimization. This lowers expenses while increasing security, simplifying usage, and improving performance. In line with the conventional networking paradigm, which centers the whole network infrastructure around an organization's data center, SD-WAN links offices directly to cloud services and to the company's headquarters and data center. SASE, on the other hand, uses cloud-native security solutions to put the cloud at the heart of the network. The data center is only an additional secure access point in SASE.

A cloud access security broker (CASB), firewall as a service (FWaaS), secure web gateway (SwB), and zero trust network access (ZTNA) are among the cloud-delivered security services offered by SASE. Software-defined Wide Area Networking, or SD-WAN, is the advanced networking component of SASE.

What are the Features of SASE?​

SASE architecture may provide centralized control, visibility, dynamic traffic management, self-healing, and other advantages to businesses and their customers by combining several network management and security features into a single edge model. The primary attributes of an SASE architecture are listed below:

  • Centralized Oversight and Visibility: Businesses may achieve centralized administration and orchestration capabilities via a single interface, as well as edge-to-edge visibility, by merging virtualized network and security services into a unified architecture. In an era where networks and usage cases are becoming more complicated than ever, this significantly simplifies overall network and service administration.

  • Autonomous Traffic Control and Self-healing: SASE makes networking adaptable. Using intelligent traffic routing (and rerouting when appropriate) and traffic type priority based on organizational preferences, SASE provides better flexibility and elasticity than complicated routing methods that force all user traffic via data centers.

    Numerous SD-WAN overlays include the ability to keep an eye on network connections for jitter, outages, and other issues. One benefit of SD-WAN is that traffic may be dynamically diverted in cases of issues. Additionally, a lot of SD-WAN systems come with automatic self-healing features like forward error correction and remediation.

  • Seamless Entry: By putting these features at the edge, network managers and users may both experience less pain when it comes to security management. Without having to wait for traffic to funnel back to a data center in order for security permission and policy to take effect, users may have secure access more rapidly. Whether the user enters the office, works from home, or logs in from a conference out of town, once they are permitted, the connectivity should function and the experience should be excellent.

    In the end, this feature sets SASE apart as a critical architecture for large corporations with geographically dispersed workforces and mixed work environments. Businesses may better assist their customers and relieve their IT teams of the burden of managing an increasingly complicated access environment by pushing networking and security capabilities to the edge.

  • SASE Elasticity and Flexibility: The bandwidth-management mechanism is the only item that is centralized in a SASE network. Network administrators can manage connections to users, servers, IoT devices, and more with greater control and flexibility when they have full visibility of all edge connections. The use of a software-defined overlay with edge-pushed capabilities reduces the requirement for more conventional WAN optimization features.

    An organization may be liberated from outdated techniques for installation, setup, activation, and user-specific connection management once it implements a SASE architecture. Virtualized and dynamic, connections may be instantly established as new staff join and swiftly broken down when existing staff go. The days of needing to wait months for additional connections to be installed are long gone thanks to this quick scalability in both directions.

  • Cloud-native Conversion: SASE is cloud native and assists businesses in completing what for many has been a decades-long transition from the rigidity of dedicated internet access and the complexity of enterprise security to an enterprise wide area network (WAN) that is cloud native and delivers networking and security services through software as a service (SaaS). SASE is provided as a worldwide cloud service that quickly adjusts to changing business requirements and makes all network and security features accessible from anywhere.The last step towards being cloud native for a business firm is adopting this sort of architecture.

  • Access based on Identity and Flawless Security: ZTNA, which stands for "no one is trusted until their identity can be verified," is a service offered by SASE. Users are only allowed contextual access when their identities have been authenticated, according to the conditions outlined in the security regulations linked to each specific user.

    Risk-based access controls are based on user identification and take into account the intended activity, the sensitivity of the data or application being accessed, and the device posture of the user. To guarantee consistent implementation everywhere, the policy accompanies the user in the workplace, on the go, and at home with ease.

  • Safe Entry at the Periphery: SASE provides dependable security and optimization to branch offices, on-site and cloud data centers, individual users, and devices at the corporate edge.

    To offer safe access, SASE makes use of a number of security features, such as firewall-as-a-service (FWaaS), ZTNA, SWG, and CASB. Logging on to a VPN can take longer and be more difficult than authenticating and granting access because these functions are housed at the edge instead of in a centralized data center.

  • Worldwide Dispersed: SASE offers low-latency networking and security features to all users and business locations via an extendable global cloud network.

How is the Implementation of SASE?​

Every SASE implementation is distinct from the company it supports. Nonetheless, the majority of effective SASE implementations adhere to these six fundamental steps:

  1. Specify the objectives and needs of SASE: Establishing the project's business goals is the first stage in the planning phase of the SASE deployment. Determine the SASE use cases: What issues require resolution, and what are the desired outcomes for your organization? The next phases, which involve creating strategies to achieve the goals if they are defined, will be guided by these use cases.

    SASE, for instance, may be useful for optimizing and securing SD-WAN traffic. Since SD-WAN technology is already in place in this scenario, adding SASE's cloud-based network security stack is the main objective in order to safeguard that traffic.

    The next stages ascertain if the current SD-WAN architecture is capable of supporting SASE and guarantee that the recommended SASE suppliers are able to interface with your current infrastructure. After you understand the importance of SASE, choose the technology, procedures, and training to use to achieve your objectives.

  2. Evaluate the surroundings and find any gaps: The next step is to carry out a comprehensive analysis of your current network resources and architecture to find any gaps in your capacity to meet your SASE objectives. Make use of the following inquiries as a guide:

    • Are the essential staff prepared with the knowledge and skills required to oversee and carry out a SASE deployment?

    • Do you require an SD-WAN backbone or another access on-ramp to the SASE service provider?

    • Is it possible to deploy SASE using any current infrastructure, or does your edge require fresh hardware purchases?

    Review technical documentation and network diagrams to gain a comprehensive understanding of your current environment, chat with key personnel about their training and expectations, and look over security and network setups. It is critical to make this decision before generating SASE requirements since it may be much easier to identify pain points and business objectives with a thorough understanding of the present infrastructure.

    Once you have a clear grasp of your present condition and long-term SASE goals, you can start looking for SASE suppliers and solutions.

  3. Select SASE providers and products: There aren't currently any fully developed SASE providers with just one solution. While some suppliers offer secure service edge through cloud-based network security features, others give access via SD-WAN and associated technologies. All networking functionality may be provided by a single vendor for a cloud-based security stack if you already have an SD-WAN backbone. If not, finish SASE installation by combining an SD-WAN solution with a security service edge solution.

    Cloud security solutions and SD-WAN must function effectively together. SD-WAN manufacturers and security service edge providers frequently collaborate to provide fully integrated solutions that are controlled from a single, unified platform.

  4. Evaluate and stage SASE implementation: The actual methods involved in service configuration will vary depending on the provider, environment, and demands.

    Before implementing SASE deployment live, we advise establishing a staging and testing environment that is distinct from the production environment. This will allow you to do comprehensive integration and user acceptability testing. Examine the integration between an SD-WAN system and the cloud security stack, as well as additional tools and applications such as security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR), role-based access control (RBAC), and security information and event management (SIEM).

    Furthermore, do user acceptance testing with real users and workloads to accurately picture how these changes will affect the people who use your services on a regular basis. This can help you identify flaws and challenges, determine what type of user training is necessary at the cutover time, and improve the overall user experience.

  5. Turn off, debug, and offer assistance: Companies should have support personnel available to manage customer complaints and technical professionals on hand to fix any configuration or deployment difficulties because even the most carefully planned deployments can go astray. Your support staff must also ensure that the user base receives post-cutover training and documentation so that they are aware of the changes to their daily routines and know what to do if an issue arises.

  6. Constantly improve the way SASE is implemented: After your SASE solution becomes live, you should keep a close eye on it and seek opportunities to optimize and enhance it. Both the infrastructure and the technology provided by SASE providers are subject to change. You should assess the SASE technology as you add new branch offices, SaaS platforms, cloud infrastructure, and other edge computing elements to see whether further capability is required or preferred.

What is SD-WAN?​

Businesses may securely connect users to applications using a virtual wide area network (WAN) architecture known as software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN), which can include any combination of broadband internet, LTE, and MPLS transport services. It allows businesses to securely connect people, apps, and data across several locations, improving scalability, reliability, and performance. Furthermore, SD-WAN simplifies WAN management by providing centralized visibility and control throughout the whole network.

Wide area networks (WANs) are, in fact, networks that link local area networks (LANs) over extended distances. A WAN is frequently used by large companies to link their numerous branch offices and locations to the main corporate network. In conventional WANs, the hardware that actually directs traffic and the software that controls how it flows inside the network are closely paired. This software/hardware combo is usually bought from a single networking supplier.

A more adaptable WAN design that may benefit from many hardware platforms and connection choices is an SD-WAN, or software-defined wide area network. Any networking device can be used with the controlling software. Instead of requiring specialist gear, an organization can set up an SD-WAN with off-the-shelf technology. Because of this, SD-WANs are more affordable, adaptable, and scalable than traditional WANs.

Software-defined infrastructure and technology are used in software-defined wide area networks, or SD-WANs. SD-WAN simplifies the management and operation of the WAN by separating the networking hardware from the control mechanism. Businesses may create higher-performance WANs with SD-WAN solutions for a lot less money than they would with private WAN connection technologies like multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) and cheap internet.

How does SD-WAN Work?​

Enterprise networks may be extended and connected across great geographic areas using SD-WAN, a virtualized service. Virtual private networks (VPNs), wireless, broadband, multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), and the internet are some of the linkages that wide area networks (WANs) employ to connect users in branch and distant offices to corporate resources, applications, and services so they can work from anywhere. In an effort to preserve fast speeds and maximize connectivity, SD-WAN tracks the effectiveness of WAN connections and controls traffic.

Regardless of the end users' locations, the primary goal of SD-WAN is to link them with the applications. Traffic is driven by SD-WAN in accordance with the application's business needs. These business needs range from the application's priority to mandatory security policy enforcement or the need for optimal application performance. Critical mission applications are often prioritized over all others. The networking technique can change, ranging from 4G LTE to the internet to MPLS.

Applications, WAN transport services, and control and administration tasks are all divided by the SD-WAN architecture. All of the traffic and application data is stored and managed by a centralized control plane. To meet application demands and provide the best possible experience, the centralized control plane keeps an eye on traffic and modifies it as needed.

What are the Features of SD-WAN?​

Before selecting an SD-WAN solution type, customers should take into account the following SD-WAN features:

  • Overlay network with encryption: All network traffic has to be encrypted to prevent data loss due to cyberattacks. It must also be guided by policy.

  • Maximal output: Use application steering to prioritize those business-critical apps. When utilizing latency-sensitive applications like phones and video, an application-aware SD-WAN solution may serve a wide range of applications, enhancing cloud application performance and allowing branches to communicate directly with the Internet.

  • Real-time monitoring: Real-time data statistics should be able to be gathered by the selected SD-WAN.

  • Endpoints: Every endpoint from every program and application has to be connected to the selected SD-WAN.

  • Thorough administration of policies: IT departments can manage and maintain uniform policies on everything from security to application filtering across thousands of devices and apps, even across several locations, with an SD-WAN solution that includes a management console.

  • Data services independence: Multiple stations with various internet data service categories and hybrid installations should be able to connect to the SD-WAN.

  • VPN and advanced security features: A next-generation firewall, a security web gateway, and enhanced cyber threat protection are examples of advanced security features that the selected SD-WAN should ideally include.

  • Mobility characteristics: To facilitate interactive engagements, the SD-WAN should contain mobility features like access control, an improved security parameter, and automated optimal route selection.

  • Ability to provision: Reduce the workload for IT teams who are pressed for time by using an automated device provisioning solution. Even better, look for a centralized controller with zero-touch deployment that can quickly extend and add branches.

  • Simple deployment process: Use a system that provides single-pane-of-glass deployment, management, and monitoring for all SD-WAN components -networking, traffic management, and security components and policies- to speed up implementation.

  • Reduced bandwidth requirements: Forget about reserving additional multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) capacity for a traditional wide area network (WAN) weeks or months in advance. This method guarantees that many incoming and outgoing traffic requests are managed effectively within the bandwidth.

  • Outstanding dependability: By collecting extensive WAN route information, an SD-WAN system may automatically switch to the best available WAN link. For increased business continuity, this route awareness intelligence guarantees dependable network connectivity.

  • Adaptable possibilities for connections: Traffic may be effectively routed via a variety of channels using SD-WAN, including public Internet via LTE and broadband as well as currently in use MPLS lines. As a result of utilizing more adaptable and frequently less expensive broadband choices, WAN connections and overhead may be managed more effectively.

  • Direct access to the cloud: More services are moving to the cloud as a result of digital transformation. Unfortunately, traditional network infrastructures cannot handle today's sophisticated workloads and disruptive apps. The good news is that customers who are located far from headquarters may access crucial cloud apps directly using SD-WAN.

  • Next-generation security: An organization's attack surface increases with each branch that has local Internet connectivity and is SD-WAN enabled. This emphasizes the need for selecting a solution that combines the security architecture for centralized visibility and administration while also extending protection outside the data center. Select a system that offers several security capabilities, such as Web filtering, IPS, integrated NGFW, IPSec VPN that can stretch across and between numerous sites, and high-speed SSL inspection performance.

  • Easy-to-use interface: IT departments may reduce administrative costs, expedite setup, and accelerate deployment cycles by operating SD-WAN through a basic user interface, such as an orchestration console or single pane of glass management system.

What are the Benefits of SD-WAN?​

Use machine learning and SD-WAN to automate processes. You can effortlessly include security and obtain the necessary visibility and control to guarantee optimal network performance and steady uptime.

SD-WAN allows IT to offer routing, threat protection, cost-effective offloading of expensive circuits, and simplified WAN network administration. SD-WAN benefits to businesses are as follows:

  • Simple Operations: As network requirements change, network managers may build and update security rules instantly since all devices are managed centrally and routing is determined by application policies. Organizations may further minimize the complexity, resources, and operating expenses (Opex) involved in setting up new locations by integrating SD-WAN with zero-touch provisioning, which aids in automating deployment and setup operations.

  • Carrier-Free Wide Area Network Access: Using multiple internet service providers (ISPs) based on your location or the best deal available at the moment is made possible by SD-WAN. Additionally, you have the option of selecting a different ISP for each location, so your network won't be impacted if one goes down or experiences connectivity issues.

  • Enhanced Output: SD-WAN enables application rules to be provisioned automatically in accordance with business objectives. SD-WAN continually measures WAN performance and intelligently steers traffic based on service level agreements (SLAs) to maintain application performance. By switching to higher-performing WAN lines, SD-WAN may address performance deterioration through a proactive strategy.

    • Services for all important business applications are consistently and highly available.

    • Several hybrid active-active connections are capable of handling all network situations.

    • Application-aware routing, which dynamically directs application traffic for improved user experience and more effective delivery.

    • improved OpEx by substituting more economical and adaptable internet (including secure VPN connections) for expensive Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) services,

  • Costs Savings: WAN connection scalability is dependent on real demand and may be adjusted by network managers. Broadband connectivity solutions can be used by network managers to complement or replace costly MPLS services. As a result of no longer having any underutilized capacity at any one moment, the needed capital investment is lower. It requires less configuration than traditional networks, making it easier to maintain, which lowers the continuing expenses of support and maintenance.

  • Enhanced Interaction: Organizations may improve the user experience by enabling effective access to cloud-based resources without requiring the backhauling of traffic to centralized sites. When delivering files or video streams over long distances, dynamic routes take the place of static ones and adjust in real time to changing network circumstances. This eliminates latency between the source and destination.

  • Enhanced Safety: You can defend your network against external dangers like malware and DDoS assaults by using software-defined networking. Limiting the number of devices that are allowed to access your network can help you thwart internal risks like data theft or hackers. This implies that someone will simply be shut out of your system automatically if they attempt to log in from an unauthorized location.

  • Enhanced Trustworthiness: You can make sure that all of your data remains linked using SD-WAN, irrespective of your physical location or internet availability. Your staff won't ever have to worry about missing crucial emails or calls because they left their phone at home since they will always have access to their data, regardless of what happens to their internet or cellular connectivity!

What are the Limitations of SD-WAN?​

Despite its numerous benefits, SD-WAN is an emerging network technology with a variety of problems and difficulties. The main issues with SD-WAN and their accompanying fixes are as follows:

  • Higher starting price: The implementation of SD-WAN technology necessitates expert setup and deployment, as well as an investment in hardware and software licensing. For certain small and medium-sized businesses, the initial cost may be higher.

    Solution: To reduce the initial expenditure, businesses can select managed services from SD-WAN service providers. Cloud-based SD-WAN solutions may also be utilized to lower the cost of purchasing physical equipment by utilizing virtualized devices that cloud service providers offer.

  • Technical requirements and complexity: It might be challenging for some small and medium-sized businesses to find an IT team with the necessary expertise to design and administer SD-WAN technology since it is a complicated network architecture.

    Solution: Businesses might decide to collaborate with a specialist SD-WAN service provider and use their technical staff to set up and oversee the SD-WAN network. Reducing technical requirements is another benefit of using simpler SD-WAN solutions like automated configuration and centralized management.

  • Risks to security: Security should be the top priority for SD-WAN data traffic since it might be sent over the public Internet and is susceptible to malicious attacks and security hazards. This is especially true for businesses that handle sensitive information.

    Solution: To safeguard the security of their SD-WAN networks, businesses should use a range of security measures, such as intrusion detection and protection systems, firewalls, and encryption technologies. Security acceleration services can also be utilized to guarantee secure data processing and transfer.

  • Reliance on an online connection: The performance of the network may be hampered by SD-WAN as it frequently uses the public Internet as its transmission channel, which is less dependable and stable than a dedicated line.

    Solution: To maintain network stability and dependability, businesses can employ a hybrid connection that combines dedicated lines with SD-WAN. To deal with Internet connection problems, there's also the option to use a backup connection.

  • Complexity of integration: The intricate integration of SD-WAN into certain current network architectures may necessitate extensive network reconfiguration and change, which might cause disruptions to the network and disrupt corporate operations.

    Solution: To ensure compatibility with current networks and a seamless transition, businesses incorporating SD-WAN should make enough plans and preparations in advance. It is possible to progressively replace and update current network equipment by using a phased integration technique.

  • Dependency on service quality: Through load balancing and dynamic path selection, SD-WAN can increase bandwidth usage, but its effectiveness is still dependent on the network service provider's quality of service. The service provider's network failure or performance degradation might also impact the SD-WAN's performance.

    Solution: In order to guarantee that they may transition to alternative, dependable service providers in case of an issue with a particular service provider, organizations may opt to collaborate with numerous service providers and create redundant connections. Moreover, traffic optimization and application-aware approaches can be applied to enhance network performance.

  • Could bring up new issues: The implementation of SD-WAN may bring forth additional difficulties and problems, including complicated routing problems, configuration conflicts, and QoS (quality of service) management.

    Solution: Before using SD-WAN, businesses should have a thorough understanding of its technological features and architecture. They should perform sufficient training and preparation to handle any issues that may arise. In addition, for expert help and guidance, one may decide to collaborate with a seasoned SD-WAN service provider.

Why do customers need SD-WAN?​

SD-WAN is becoming increasingly vital as enterprises rely more on internet connections for cloud and business-critical applications. SD-WAN aims to reduce operational expenses and complexity while improving uptime and business agility. Furthermore, SD-WAN simplifies management by offering a unified dashboard that allows businesses to expand and manage branch networks. It gives you the freedom to link any carrier-independent WAN to boost bandwidth availability and dependable connections in an economical manner.

To put it briefly, SD-WAN is utilized for security. However, while pursuing certain business objectives, SD-WAN's goals are given below:

  • Improved user experience using the application: With reduced latency, higher performance, and more dependable connectivity, SD-WAN enables remote locations to connect to networks, data centers, and/or various clouds more readily. An engaging user experience may make or destroy an application when consumers want more of it at a size and agility never seen before.

  • Immediate ROI advantages: In addition to being out of date, MPLS and other connection technologies are more costly when taking into account their total cost of ownership (TCO). In addition to lowering bandwidth costs dramatically, SD-WAN may save capital expenditures by enabling the unification of various point networking and security devices at the edge, all while improving management and performance.

  • Effective processes: The proliferation of point products used for networking and security has increased complexity as network infrastructures have developed. With the use of automation, SD-WAN streamlines the process of connecting across on-premises, hybrid, and cloud environments. Cloud on-ramp deep integrations and centralized orchestration, zero-touch provisioning, and analytics are all made possible by SD-WAN, which speeds up cloud connectivity.

  • Improved posture for security: Integrated security is a need for an SD-WAN system. If not, it's only an additional connection choice that regrettably turns into a point of attack. Direct, private, and secure internet connection is made possible by a secure SD-WAN when it is deployed correctly. Consistent security at all edges, from flexible WAN edges to the cloud edge, must be guaranteed by an SD-WAN solution.

Is SD-WAN a firewall?​

No, SD-WAN is not a firewall. Both firewalls and SD-WAN offer advantages for network administration and security, but they do it in different ways. Incoming and outgoing network traffic security is governed by rules that a firewall enforces, whereas traffic is enhanced and managed by SD-WAN, which routes it via the most efficient path. Although many IT professionals utilize these technologies alone, you may combine them for more successful and secure network operation.

Firewalls and software-defined wide area networking, or SD-WAN, are the two key elements in network architecture that are required to ensure the security and performance of business networks. Although they both carry out necessary functions, SD-WAN is not the same as firewalls in terms of functionality or how it works.

Although firewalls have historically been the cornerstone of network security, SD-WAN is a cutting-edge technology that improves network management's agility, flexibility, and optimization.

Furthermore, network management and security benefits are provided by both firewalls and SD-WAN, notwithstanding the methods by which they do this. An SD-WAN optimizes and controls traffic by choosing the most efficient path, while a firewall enforces rules for the security of incoming and outgoing network traffic. While many IT specialists use these technologies separately, you may combine them to operate networks more successfully and securely.

Is SD-WAN Secure?​

Yes, every WAN link has enterprise-level encryption, thanks to SD-WAN. By default, SD-WAN builds overlay tunnels to datacenters, the cloud, or other branches by utilizing the strongest encryption and authentication. Furthermore, it makes certain that the encryption keys are often and periodically refreshed, which secures these encrypted WAN tunnels more successfully than VPN tunnels. This guarantees that messages transferred between the sites cannot be intercepted, altered, or forged by the attackers.

What is the Difference Between SASE and SD-WAN?​

SASE has many similarities to SD-WAN, but its unique characteristics differentiate it as a distinct technology. Many analysts believe SASE is an advancement of SD-WAN since it integrates SD-WAN connections and third-party security services into a single platform.

The main differences between SD-WAN and SASE are outlined below.

  • Approach to Security: SD-WAN's security capabilities are secondary, but SASE integrates security with network efficiency. While SD-WAN has certain security features, it frequently requires third-party integrations, such as cloud access security brokers, to provide full protection. SASE, on the other hand, seamlessly combines networking and security services, including built-in security capabilities such as Zero Trust.

  • Deployment and Architecture: SD-WAN's centralized strategy focuses on the organization's data center, whereas SASE deploys across the cloud and many data centers.

    SD-WAN provides flexibility in implementation, allowing enterprises to select between physical, software, and cloud-based connections. It is based on standard networking techniques and is built around the organization's data center. In contrast, SASE has a distributed, cloud-based design, with the data center serving as another service edge.

  • Traffic and Connectivity: SD-WAN addresses traffic functions one at a time, case by case, whereas SASE assesses traffic as a whole and offers a comprehensive solution.

    Because of their distinct designs, SASE and SD-WAN handle traffic in various ways. SD-WAN is generally used to link branch offices to an organization's network and data center services. SD-WAN uses set network rules to decide how to route traffic between endpoints and backhaul traffic through data centers.

    SASE, on the other hand, is entirely focused on cloud settings and seeks to link endpoints to the service edge. SASE is cloud-based; therefore, traffic does not need to be routed via data centers. Instead, SASE routes traffic through globally distributed points of presence (PoPs). The point of presence inspects communication before sending it to its destination via the internet or SASE architecture.

  • Management and Configuration: SD-WAN typically configures and provisions network settings from a centralized controller, but a SASE system can manage networking, security, and visibility from a single management panel while seamlessly automating all processes. SD-WAN can use the cloud, but it cannot be administered from it, whereas SASE is a cloud-based service.

  • Remote Access: Remote access has become an essential requirement for corporate and enterprise technology services. Although Gartner first coined the term SASE in late 2019, SASE development continued in a world impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic and accompanying remote work boom. This makes SASE's built-in remote access capabilities an essential part of the service.

    SD-WAN, unlike SASE, does not have built-in remote access capabilities, thus, enterprises must invest in third-party services to increase remote access. For this reason, SD-WAN is the more expensive option for remote access. If a business employs SD-WAN to link distant employees, it may only deliver SD-WAN at home to a subset of its workforce owing to financial constraints.

  • Required Expertise: SD-WAN is a development of existing WAN technology; thus, IT personnel must have networking abilities to operate with it. Traditional, compartmentalized network teams are well-suited for SD-WAN implementation and maintenance. However, because SASE involves networking, security, and cloud technologies, IT personnel must have a larger range of skills to administer it. SASE is less segmented than SD-WAN, and network, security, and cloud teams may need to collaborate and share resources.

What are the similarities between SD-WAN and SASE?​

SASE and SD-WAN are frequently compared since they have certain similarities. For instance, both SASE and SD-WAN are virtualized technologies that cover large geographic areas. They both have the same goal: to link geographically dispersed branch offices or end users to an organization's network resources in a scalable and simple manner.

The similarities between SASE and SD-WAN include the following:

  • Cloud-based Solutions: Both SASE and SD-WAN provide cloud-based functionality. They can effortlessly connect branch sites to cloud resources, resulting in more flexibility, scalability, and possible cost savings. Either may be utilized with a variety of cloud services or WAN connections, reflecting the changing nature of modern network topologies.

  • Virtualized Infrastructure: SD-WAN is a virtualized platform that allows network managers to remotely manage scattered networks over long geographic distances. A SASE design includes SD-WAN's virtualized platform as a network component. SASE and SD-WAN both make use of virtualized technology. Instead of depending on fixed-function proprietary hardware, they employ software-defined alternatives. While SASE performs networking and security services in the cloud or data centers, SD-WAN uses software-defined nodes, including customer-premises equipment (CPE).

  • Enhancing Network Connectivity: One major commonality is the approach to network connection. Both use virtual overlay networks to automate routing and optimize network traffic using predetermined policies and real-time network circumstances. This improves data traffic efficiency while also ensuring a consistent user experience.

  • Geographical Scalability: The technologies are intended to serve large geographic areas, allowing enterprises to extend and scale activities without network constraints. Availability in many areas enables enterprises to expand their presence while maintaining optimal network performance.

  • Control and Management: SD-WAN and SASE both have a centralized control plane, which network managers utilize to route traffic based on defined policies and maintain network performance. SASE and SD-WAN technologies may be managed remotely. This centralized management enables network managers to monitor and optimize the network from anywhere, guaranteeing uniform rules and configurations throughout the network architecture.

  • Secure Network Access: SD-WAN encrypts networks from beginning to finish, preventing eavesdroppers outside the network and cloud environment from accessing infrastructure or data. SASE extends SD-WAN's secure access capabilities with services such as cloud access security brokers and zero-trust network access.

What are the Advantages of SASE Network of SD-WAN?​

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) uses Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) to deliver strong business network security. The end result is a single cloud-based service that has several advantages over traditional systems.

Network regions and settings can vary on a weekly basis as new services are launched, user communities grow, and the balance of on-premises and remote users evolves. SASE allows for network flexibility, growing readily when growth is necessary.

SASE reduces the requirement for network hardware, while SD-WAN solutions provide a secure network across all assets in the absence of physical data centers and servers. Updating hardware takes less time, and network specialists can respond quickly as the situation evolves. This allows firms to easily and reliably add branch offices to their current SASE system.

What are the Disadvantages of SASE Network of SD-WAN?​

SASE solutions require Points of Presence (PoPs) throughout the world, which requires servers with enough compute capacity to function continuously under typical conditions, as well as failover plans. Many SASE participants have had to develop their SASE PoPs on public cloud infrastructure owing to timing limitations, which has resulted in exorbitant prices. SASE often entails a transition to cloud-native architecture, which may include investments in new infrastructure or upgrades to current ones. This comprises the price of cloud resources, edge computing devices, SD-WAN equipment, and other hardware components. SASE systems sometimes require licensing costs for software components such as security services, networking capabilities, and administration tools. Because SASE depends on the cloud for security and networking services, there may be charges associated with data transfer and bandwidth use, especially for big or data-intensive enterprises.

How SASE in Security Compare to SD-WAN?​

While SASE and SD-WAN are distinct, selecting one over the other is not always straightforward. For many enterprises, the debate may not be SD-WAN vs. SASE, but rather SD-WAN plus SASE in tandem.

SASE can be used as an independent solution if the company has:

  • There are no remote or hybrid workers.

  • An appropriate MPLS infrastructure is already in place.

  • Not previously implemented. SD-WAN

These requirements are rather explicit, and few firms have made use of remote labor since the epidemic. In most cases, any firm that wants to install SASE will likely do it on top of SD-WAN. In effect, SD-WAN becomes the basis for SASE, with SASE adding layers of security and efficiency to compensate for what SD-WAN lacks. Security is a core concept of SASE. Core security services, including Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), are natively integrated into the platform, providing strong protection against new threats. However, SD-WAN may necessitate the deployment of additional security solutions to ensure comprehensive network protection.

Although SD-WAN enables secure network access, security was not a top emphasis in its development. However, SASE includes built-in security. SASE is an advancement of SD-WAN technology, taking many of its advantages, such as scalability and enhanced administration, and incorporating them into a more secure, completely cloud-based platform.

SD-WAN has some security features, but many SD-WAN manufacturers collaborate with security vendors to offer more complete, integrated security services alongside their SD-WAN products. This can make SD-WAN more expensive for enterprises since it forces them to acquire - and so spend more money on - another service to achieve the required security.

Can SASE and SD-WAN Work Together?​

Yes. SASE seamlessly combines SD-WAN features for efficient network traffic with cloud-native security functionalities. As a result, eliminating SD-WAN from the equation would deprive SASE of its essential networking component, leaving it incomplete.

While cloud-based security is a great option, most businesses' networking does not take place entirely in the cloud. Data centers, business headquarters, conventional branches, and remote offices all exist, so implementing solutions as if everything is in the cloud will most certainly be chaotic, resulting in significant security breaches that are just waiting to be exploited.

Other pieces must be in place for SASE to be implemented effectively, including those that allow SASE capability to be extended into physical networks. The most noteworthy of these technologies is SD-WAN, or software-defined wide area networks. SASE may use SD-WAN to manage, regulate, and monitor connections across data centers, branches, and edges. To function well in a hybrid network, SASE requires an SD-WAN solution that is as close to users as feasible in order to provide efficient networking and effective security.

How is the Deployment from SASE and SD-WAN?​

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) are two contemporary networking solutions that improve the security and connectivity of organizations.

Deployment of SASE: SASE incorporates network security functions, such as secure web gateways, firewall as a service, and zero trust network access, with WAN capabilities to fulfill the dynamic secure access requirements of digital enterprises. The process of deployment entails the implementation of a cloud-native architecture, in which security and networking functions are provided by the cloud. This enables the rapid deployment of a solution that is more cost-effective, scalable, and flexible across multiple locations.

SD-WAN Deployment: SD-WAN is a technology that optimizes and manages wide area networks by decoupling networking hardware from its control mechanism. By employing a centralized control function to intelligently and securely direct traffic across the WAN, it simplifies branch office networking. SD-WAN appliances are installed at each site during deployment, and they are connected to a centralized management console. By utilizing a variety of connectivity options, including MPLS, broadband, and LTE, this configuration optimizes application performance, minimizes expenses, and enhances the user experience.

SD-WAN and SASE both strive to enhance network efficiency, security, and management; however, SASE provides a more comprehensive approach by directly incorporating security services into the network architecture.

How does SASE compare to SD-WAN in terms of Deployment?​

SASE is completely provided as a cloud service. This eliminates the requirement for on-premises hardware maintenance while providing inherent scalability and easier administration. SD-WAN offers increased deployment options. Businesses may select between on-premises, cloud, or a hybrid strategy that combines on-premises and cloud installations based on their existing infrastructure.

When we look at the matter more closely, one important distinction between SASE and SD-WAN is how enterprises install each architecture. Enterprises may install SD-WAN via physical, software, or cloud connections, depending on their IT requirements. However, SASE is cloud-based.

Enterprises deploy SD-WAN appliances or software clients at each branch site to provide connection to the organization's data center resources.

Organizations can select between managed, DIY, and hybrid SD-WAN:

  • Managed SD-WAN: The organization transfers control to a service provider.

  • DIY SD-WAN: SD-WAN services are deployed and managed by network teams themselves.

  • Hybrid SD-WAN: The SD-WAN architecture is jointly owned by the company and the vendor.

Organizations may implement SASE in a variety of ways, similar to SD-WAN. SASE solutions integrate network and security capabilities into a single as-a-service product. This cloud feature may make SASE more adaptable for enterprises. Enterprises can utilize SASE client software to support mobile users, remote workers, apps, data centers, and other scenarios.

Variations in deployment result in variances in SASE and SD-WAN topologies. SASE is more dispersed and cloud-based, whereas SD-WAN establishes an overlay network using physical equipment, software, or cloud-based vendor services.

SD-WAN adheres to the traditional networking paradigm that all network infrastructure revolves around an organization's data center, whereas SASE views the data center as simply another service edge (the SE in SASE).

Last updated on by Zenarmor