Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a Gartner-designed framework that simplifies network access, enhances security, optimizes performance, and minimizes the number of vendors and devices IT professionals need to manage.

Figure 1. SASE: Where Cloud, Networking, and Security Converge.

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a cloud-based network architecture that integrates software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN) with advanced security functions. It streamlines WAN deployment, enhances security, boosts efficiency, and enables application-specific bandwidth management. Figure 1 shows SASE: Where Cloud, Networking, and Security Converge.

First introduced by Gartner in 2019, SASE has rapidly evolved from a security-focused SD-WAN alternative into a major networking sector. Analysts predict its market value will surpass $10 billion in the coming years.

According to Dell’Oro Group, the SASE market is expected to triple by 2026, exceeding $13 billion. Gartner forecasts even stronger growth, projecting a 36% CAGR from 2020 to 2025, reaching $14.7 billion by 2025.

Key Principles of SASE

1. Convergence of Networking and Security SASE integrates SD-WAN features (such as routing, optimization, and bandwidth management) with security functions like Firewall as a Service (FWaaS), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), all within a unified cloud-based service.
2. Cloud-Centric Architecture SASE operates primarily as a cloud service, reducing reliance on on-premises hardware. This approach enhances scalability, flexibility, and cost efficiency while ensuring seamless network and security management.
3. Emphasis on Zero Trust A core component of SASE is Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), which follows the “never trust, always verify” principle. Every user and device must be authenticated before accessing any resource, regardless of their location.
4. Enhanced User Experience By optimizing network traffic and ensuring secure, direct access to applications and resources, SASE improves performance for users, particularly remote and mobile workers relying on cloud-based services.
5. Simplified IT Management While transitioning to SASE may require initial adjustments, it ultimately streamlines IT operations. By consolidating networking and security functions into a single platform, SASE reduces vendor complexity and simplifies policy enforcement.

How SASE Works

SASE is typically delivered as a single cloud service, though some vendors combine solutions from multiple providers. While some vendors offer hardware appliances to connect edge users and devices to nearby Points of Presence (PoPs), most rely on software clients or virtual appliances for seamless connectivity.

Key Networking Features

SASE enhances network performance through:

• WAN optimization
• Content delivery network (CDN) and caching
• SD-WAN capabilities
• SaaS acceleration
• Bandwidth aggregation

Vendors supporting these functions include SD-WAN providers, carriers, content-delivery networks (CDNs), network-as-a-service (NaaS) providers, and networking equipment vendors.

Key Security Features

SASE incorporates multiple security layers, such as:

• Encryption and multifactor authentication
• Threat protection and data leak prevention (DLP)
• Domain Name System (DNS) security
• Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS)
• Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
• Secure Web Gateway (SWG)

Security providers include cloud-access security brokers, secure web gateway providers, and zero-trust network access providers.

Future Innovations

The SASE landscape continues to evolve, with vendors investing in:

• 5G support for WAN links
• Advanced behavioral and context-based security
• Integrated AI-driven operations (AIOps) for automated troubleshooting and remediation

What is Single-Vendor SASE?

Single-vendor SASE is a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution where all networking and security components—such as Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)—are provided by a single vendor.

Advantages of Single-Vendor SASE

• Simplified Management A unified platform reduces complexity and streamlines IT operations.
• Seamless Integration Native integration between networking and security components enhances performance and security.
• Better Support A single point of contact for troubleshooting and issue resolution.

Disadvantages of Single-Vendor SASE

• Vendor Lock-in Organizations rely on a single provider, limiting flexibility.
• Potential Feature Gaps Some solutions may not match the depth of specialized multivendor offerings.
• Higher Costs for Large Enterprises Pricing structures may not be as flexible as multivendor solutions.

Top SASE Providers

Leading SASE vendors include established networking giants, well-funded startups, and telecom carriers that have acquired or partnered with SASE providers.

Notable SASE Vendors (Alphabetical Order):

• Akamai
• Broadcom
• Cato Networks
• Cisco
• Cloudflare
• Forcepoint
• Fortinet
• HPE
• Netskope
• Palo Alto Networks
• Perimeter 81
• Proofpoint
• Skyhigh Security
• Versa
• VMware
• Zscaler

Source: NETWORKWORLD

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2025), “What Is SASE? The Intersection of Cloud, Networking, And Security,” Anatechmaz, pp.107