SASE or SSE? There Isn’t a One-Size-Fits-All Approach to Security

FrogViews are Leapfrog’s top takeaways from the most informative articles on IT trends.

In 2019, Gartner Research introduced a new enterprise networking and security category they called secure access service edge (SASE). SASE (pronounced “sassy”) combines a suite of both network and security services into a single, integrated cloud service. By bundling these services together, a single vendor can offer their customers better security and reduce the risk of data breaches, as well as minimize the cost and complexity of managing multiple network and security services.

However, the all-encompassing SASE model hasn’t proven to be realistic or even necessary for all companies.

In 2021, Gartner introduced another model — secure service edge (SSE). Without going too deep into the weeds, SSE makes up a small subset of the SASE model. Instead of covering both security and network services, SSE addresses only the security portion.

SASE or SSE? Don’t get caught up in the alphabet soup of industry buzzwords. Rather than trying to figure out which model your company should adopt, it’s more valuable to think first about your business’s specific security needs and which vendors can best meet those needs.

The reality is there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to creating a strong network and security environment.

As this article from NetworkWorld explains, when you’re evaluating security vendors, you should carefully consider everything from how different vendors’ capabilities align with your company’s unique needs to the nitty-gritty details of implementation timelines. One thing many companies often forget about, for example, is how long it takes to put a new network and security framework in place. By accurately assessing the full scope of work, carefully planning key dates, and nailing down budgets up front, you can guard against surprise costs and delays.

As you explore security options, be sure to also think about whether you have the resources and internal talent to manage this new technology in-house. There’s little value in adopting a new security tool if it’s left unmanaged or unused.

After guiding you through the evaluation and implementation process, a full-service MSP, like Leapfrog, can also provide the operational muscle to manage your security solution and ensure your investment is worthwhile.

Read on for additional tips, including important questions to ask security vendors about licensing costs and schedules, contract flexibility, and long-term vendor support.

Don’t chase after the latest hype in security. At Leapfrog, we are constantly evaluating emerging technologies — including SASE and SSE — so we can offer the best security solutions to our clients. Our experts will partner with you to assess your business risks and prioritize the best security measures for your business needs.