The Rise of SASE: Impact, Trend, and Prediction

Published on: August 20, 2024

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10 min read

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For German Version

Over the past few years, there has been a significant transformation in network security and connectivity, mostly due to the emergence of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). This cutting-edge framework integrates networking and security functionalities into a service which often utilizes cloud infrastructure, effectively tackling the increasing intricacies of contemporary digital settings. With the growing adoption of cloud services and the normalization of remote work, traditional security solutions are no longer sufficient. SASE is a solution that improves security and network speed, guaranteeing uninterrupted access to applications regardless of where the user is located.

This article examines the influence of SASE on the cybersecurity field, investigating the patterns that are leading to its acceptance and providing forecasts for its future direction. Through an analysis of the merging of networking and security in the SASE model, our objective is to emphasize its importance in designing a digital future that is both safer and efficient. In order to maintain strong security measures and ensure operational resilience, enterprises must comprehend the significance of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) as they face the difficulties of a changing threat landscape.

In this article, we will cover the following topics:

• What is the Trend of SASE?

• What is the Impact of SASE on Cybersecurity?

• What is the Expected Market Size of SASE by 2025?

• How is the Secure Access Service Edge Market Evolving?

• What are the Key Trends in the SASE Market?

• Which Companies are Leading in the SASE Market?

• How do SASE Solutions Contribute to Cybersecurity?

• What are the Predictions for Edge Computing Market Size as Forecasted?

• How has the Integration of SASE and Cybersecurity Evolved?

• Who are the Top SASE Vendors?

• What Role does SASE Play in Enhancing Cloud and Network Security?

• Did SASE Change the Cloud Computing Security?

What is the Trend of SASE?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an innovative strategy for network security that integrates wide-area networking (WAN) capabilities with complete security functions. The adoption of cloud services and remote work styles is fueling the growing popularity of SASE in enterprises.

An important trend is the incorporation of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) into SASE frameworks, which guarantees that users and devices must be authenticated and permitted before they can access resources, regardless of their location. Another emerging trend is the integration of networking and security services into a unified platform, traditionally cloud-native but extended to the edge deployments too, resulting in streamlined management and cost reduction.

Furthermore, SASE systems are designed for modularity and flexibility, enabling organizations to customize services according to their individual requirements from cloud to on-premise environments. The ability to adapt is essential for organizations as they confront ever-changing security risks and compliance demands. Businesses are anticipated to increasingly prioritize agility, security, and seamless user experiences in their digital transformation journeys, leading to a rise in demand for SASE.

In summary, SASE aims to revolutionize the way businesses handle network security by providing a consolidated, effective, and protected solution for contemporary IT infrastructures which can be deployed in the cloud, at the edge, or on-prem.

What is the Impact of SASE on Cybersecurity?

SASE provides extensive security protection for all users, devices, and applications, regardless of their location. SASE enables a centralized and policy-driven approach to cybersecurity by integrating these tasks. The influence of SASE on cybersecurity is substantial and diverse.

SASE improves security by integrating many security tasks, including secure web gateways, firewall-as-a-service, and zero-trust network access, into a single framework. This integration simplifies the system, enhances productivity, and guarantees uniform security measures throughout all network boundaries.

Furthermore, SASE facilitates the increasing prevalence of remote work and the utilization of cloud services by providing adaptable, geographically unrestricted security. It enables enterprises to establish secure connections between people, applications and data, independent of their location. This effectively tackles the difficulties presented by traditional security models that rely on perimeter boundaries.

In addition, SASE enhances network performance by optimizing the routing of traffic and minimizing latency through its distributed architecture. This is especially advantageous for multinational corporations with dispersed workforces. Solutions that support edge-based inspection, such as Zenarmor, further strengthen this benefit by inspecting traffic locally and minimizing cloud dependency.

In general, SASE signifies a transition towards a cybersecurity stance that is more adaptable, versatile, and strong, capable of effectively dealing with the ever-changing dangers and demands of contemporary digital settings.

What is the Expected Market Size of SASE by 2025?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is an emerging and expanding market category within the realm of cybersecurity and networking. Based on industry surveys and market research, the estimated market size of SASE by 2025 is expected to be significant. Experts forecast that the SASE market is expected to have a valuation of around USD 10 billion by the year 2025.

By 2025, a minimum of 60% of businesses will have clear plans and schedules for adopting Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) that include user, branch, and edge access. This is a significant increase from the 10% recorded in 2020.

Out of the firms interested in SASE, 48% will prioritize security, 31% will prioritize the network, and 21% intend to address both security and networking at the same time.

34% of firms are giving priority to solutions and services that offer integrated, cloud-based management of SD-WAN.

The expansion is propelled by the rising use of cloud services, the demand for secure remote access solutions, and the merging of network and security operations into a unified service model which can be delivered via cloud, edge, or on-premises platforms. The need for Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions is growing as organizations look for integrated solutions that offer complete security and streamline network management. The market is driven by the transition to remote work environments and the increasing focus on digital transformation in different industries.

How is the Secure Access Service Edge Market Evolving?

The market for Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is undergoing significant changes as enterprises place greater emphasis on network solutions that are safe, efficient, and scalable. The market for Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is likely to have substantial growth. It is currently valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2023 and is estimated to have a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 25% from 2024 to 2032.

In 2022, the SASE market value was estimated to be at USD 5452.94 million, and it is projected to increase to USD 10.31 billion shortly, demonstrating robust worldwide demand.

The market is characterized by a competitive landscape, with key competitors such as Akamai Technologies, Cisco Inc., VMWare Technologies, Palo Alto Networks, and edge-first innovators like Zenarmor offering lightweight, hardware-agnostic deployment models.

The progression of the SASE market is propelled by various critical reasons. The demand for safe and flexible network access solutions has increased due to the expansion of remote work and the growing acceptance of cloud services. Companies are seeking to combine security and networking in order to offer uninterrupted access to resources, regardless of the user's whereabouts.

Furthermore, there is an increasing focus on zero-trust security models, which operate on the principle that trust should never be assumed and verification should be consistently demanded. SASE upholds this model by guaranteeing that each access request undergoes authentication and authorization.

Furthermore, the progress in technology, including artificial intelligence and machine learning, is improving SASE solutions by allowing for more advanced threat detection and response techniques.

In general, the SASE market is projected to sustain its growth as businesses pursue all-encompassing solutions that offer security, flexibility, and effectiveness in an ever-more digitalized world.

What are the Key Trends in the SASE Market?

The SASE market is witnessing significant changes as enterprises progressively embrace flexible solutions, whether cloud-based, edge-deployed, or hybrid, for their networking and security requirements. A significant development is the convergence of networking and security services, which play a crucial role in the SASE framework. This convergence enables a more cohesive and effective approach to overseeing network traffic and security controls.

Another emerging trend is the increasing demand for zero-trust network access (ZTNA), which prioritizes rigorous authentication procedures and restrictions on user privileges to access sensitive data and applications. This approach is increasingly crucial as the prevalence of remote work and mobile device usage continues to grow.

Furthermore, there is a growing emphasis on edge computing, which refers to the practice of processing data in close proximity to its source in order to minimize delay and enhance efficiency. SASE solutions, especially edge-first platforms like Zenarmor, are integrating localized inspection to deliver faster performance and reduce reliance on centralized cloud points of presence (PoPs).

Furthermore, the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into SASE solutions is facilitating the development of more advanced threat detection and response mechanisms, thereby equipping enterprises with improved security capabilities. These trends demonstrate how the SASE industry is changing to accommodate new technical breakthroughs and corporate needs.

Which Companies are Leading in the SASE Market?

In 2023, a number of businesses are acknowledged as frontrunners in the SASE market because of their inventive solutions and extensive range of services.

1. Cisco: Cisco, renowned for its resilient networking solutions, has seamlessly incorporated its security capabilities into its networking gear, resulting in a full Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution.

2. Palo Alto Networks: Palo Alto Networks provides a cloud-based SASE solution called Prisma Access, which integrates network security with advanced threat prevention.

3. VMware: VMware has bolstered its SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) portfolio by incorporating SD-WAN functionalities with cloud security through the acquisition of VeloCloud.

4. Zscaler: Zscaler is a company that specializes in cloud security. They offer a scalable SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solution that specifically focuses on providing secure internet access and private application access.

5. Fortinet: Fortinet provides a SASE solution that combines its security services with SD-WAN capabilities, following a security-focused networking approach.

6. Zenarmor: Zenarmor stands out with its decentralized inspection model, Plug and Secure Anywhere, that delivers real-time traffic analysis, simplified deployment without hardware dependencies, and hybrid flexibility for both cloud and on-premise environments.

These companies are at the forefront of the SASE industry by offering all-encompassing, integrated solutions that cater to the changing requirements of enterprise security and networking.

How do SASE Solutions Contribute to Cybersecurity?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions are essential for improving cybersecurity by combining network and security operations into a cohesive cloud-based service. This technique provides numerous advantages:

• Comprehensive Security: SASE integrates several security services, including secure online gateways, firewall-as-a-service, zero trust network access, and cloud access security broker, into a unified solution. This connection guarantees the constant application of security policies to all users and devices, independent of their location.

• Simplified Complexity: Through the consolidation of diverse security tasks into a single platform, SASE diminishes the intricacy and expenses linked to the management of distinct security technologies. This simplicity facilitates firms in optimizing their IT operations and enhancing productivity.

• Scalability & Flexibility: SASE, when designed with platform-agnostic deployment models like those used by Zenarmor, can effortlessly expand its capacity to accommodate the increasing number of distant users and devices. It offers versatile access restrictions that adjust to the changing requirements of contemporary enterprises.

• Enhanced Efficiency: SASE solutions can enhance network performance by inspecting and directing traffic as close to the user as possible, whether on-premises or at the edge, thereby decreasing latency and enhancing user satisfaction.

In general, SASE assists enterprises in improving their cybersecurity position by offering a comprehensive, adaptable, and effective security architecture.

What are the Predictions for Edge Computing Market Size as Forecasted?

In 2023, the worldwide edge computing market was valued at USD 15.96 billion. The edge computing market is expected to see substantial growth in the upcoming years. Industry statistics indicate that the worldwide edge computing market is projected to develop at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 33% from 2024 to 2033. This growth will result in a transition from USD 23.6 billion in 2024 to USD 327.7 billion by 2033.

The expansion is fueled by the rising need for low-latency processing and real-time applications, particularly in industries like as telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and autonomous vehicles.

Edge computing facilitates the processing of data closer to where it is generated, resulting in decreased latency and reduced bandwidth use. With the ongoing expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT), an increasing number of devices are producing substantial volumes of data that necessitate effective processing. This trend is expected to stimulate additional investment and innovation in edge computing technologies.

Furthermore, the progress in 5G technology is anticipated to enhance edge computing by delivering swifter connectivity and facilitating more intricate applications. Companies are progressively embracing edge computing to optimize their operational efficiency, strengthen data protection, and support emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR).

How has the Integration of SASE and Cybersecurity Evolved?

The convergence of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and cybersecurity has seen substantial advancements in recent years, propelled by the growing demand for networking solutions that offer enhanced flexibility, scalability, and security. SASE integrates network security features, including secure web gateways, firewall as a service, and zero-trust network access, with wide area network (WAN) capabilities to meet the evolving secure access requirements of contemporary businesses.

At first, cybersecurity and networking were managed as independent entities, which frequently resulted in inefficiencies and vulnerabilities in terms of security. Nevertheless, the increasing use of cloud computing, remote work, and mobile connectivity has made it necessary to adopt a more unified strategy. SASE tackles these difficulties by offering a consolidated platform that streamlines security administration and enhances the identification and handling of threats.

The evolution mentioned has been characterized by the shift towards adaptable deployment models and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve security analytics. Organizations are placing greater importance on using SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solutions to provide smooth and secure connectivity for users, regardless of where they are located. This approach ensures that network performance is in line with strong security measures.

Who are the Top SASE Vendors?

In the SASE market, there are currently multiple providers who are acknowledged as leaders:

1. Zenarmor: Zenarmor is a software-defined SASE platform with zero hardware dependency, offering lightweight and agile deployment at the access, edge, and core levels. Its "micro but mighty" packet inspection engine enables real-time Layer 7 threat detection, even in encrypted traffic, making it ideal for edge-first security without cloud lock-in.

2. Cisco: Cisco is renowned for its resilient networking infrastructure and provides a comprehensive Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution that seamlessly combines its security and networking capabilities.

3. Palo Alto Networks: Palo Alto Networks offers a cloud-based SASE solution called Prisma Access, which focuses on providing high levels of security and scalability.

4. Zscaler: Zscaler is a leading company in the field of cloud security. They provide a SASE platform that specifically emphasizes on secure internet access and private application access.

5. VMware: VMware integrates SD-WAN capabilities with cloud-based security services in its VMware SASE platform.

6. Fortinet: Fortinet's SASE solution combines its robust security expertise with the integration of SD-WAN and sophisticated security capabilities.

7. Cato Networks: Cato Networks is a pioneering company that offers a comprehensive Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) technology, which combines networking and security into a single, integrated solution.

These providers are acknowledged for their capacity to deliver comprehensive, adaptable, and protected solutions customized to the changing requirements of enterprises.

What Role does SASE Play in Enhancing Cloud and Network Security?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) greatly improves cloud and network security by combining network and security operations into a single, cloud-based service. This method caters to the changing security requirements of contemporary businesses, which are increasingly dependent on cloud-based apps and remote workforces.

SASE integrates many security services, including Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), inside a unified architecture. This integration enables the implementation of uniform security measures and immediate defense against potential threats at every entry point, regardless of whether users are located on-site, in the cloud, or working remotely.

SASE simplifies and enhances network visibility by consolidating security administration. By utilizing edge computing capabilities, it guarantees secure and fast access to cloud resources. This can be achieved through localized traffic inspection and optimized routing at the network edge, minimizing latency and data exposure.

In addition, SASE implements a zero-trust security framework that mandates rigorous authentication and access restrictions, thus mitigating the likelihood of illegal entry and data breaches. SASE offers a scalable and adaptable solution to fulfill the full security needs of enterprises as they increasingly employ hybrid work environments and cloud services.

Did SASE Change the Cloud Computing Security?

Yes,the impact of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) on cloud computing security has been substantial. SASE, introduced by Gartner in 2019, is a network architecture that integrates wide-area networking (WAN) capabilities with extensive security features, all provided through the cloud. This method caters to the rising demand for secure and efficient access to cloud services, which has become more prevalent as businesses increasingly embrace cloud-based apps and remote work patterns.

SASE improves cloud security by incorporating essential components such secure web gateways, cloud access security brokers, firewall-as-a-service, and zero-trust network access. SASE simplifies and enhances the security of companies by integrating these functions into one framework. It ensures uniform security standards for all users and endpoints, irrespective of their location, which is vital in contemporary distributed work environments.

In addition, SASE facilitates the flexible scalability necessary for contemporary cloud systems, enabling enterprises to swiftly adjust to evolving demands while maintaining security. SASE enhances security by delivering inspection closer to both the user and the data, at the network edge, on-prem or endpoint, rather than relying solely on distant cloud enforcement points. This method reduces the risks associated with traditional security models that rely on perimeter defenses and enables a more adaptable and efficient approach to cloud security.