SASE vs. SSE: What You Need To Know

In the evolving landscape of network security, two concepts have gained significant attention: Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Service Edge (SSE). Gartner introduced them as cybersecurity concepts so organizations can enhance their network security and access control.

However, while both aim to enhance security in a cloud-centric world, they differ in scope and application. This article delves into the nuances of SASE and SSE, comparing their features, benefits, and use cases to help organizations determine which solution best fits their needs.

• SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) is a model introduced by Gartner in 2019 that combines networking and security capabilities into a unified, cloud-native service. It includes two main pillars: networking and security. The networking pillar includes SD-WAN, WAN optimization, and quality of service while the security pillar includes Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and Firewall as a Service (FWaaS).
• SSE (Security Service Edge) was introduced by Gartner two years after SASE (2021) to define the scope of network security convergence. It combines SWG, CASB/Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and ZTNA into one cloud-native service. However, unlike SASE, SSE does not provide secure access to WAN resources; it only provides access to the internet, SaaS, and specific internal applications.

While SASE treats all network and internet traffic as suspicious and verifies every device and user, SSE is more focused on securing the edge of your network.

SSE is part of SASE's security pillar, and the choice between implementing SASE or SSE depends on the organization's specific needs. If the goal is to secure access to the internet and control data movement for data compliance reasons, then SSE might be the best fit.

However, organizations might benefit more from implementing a SASE model for broader access and security controls needed for digital transformation.

Implementing SSE as part of a single-vendor SASE platform can facilitate future network transformation, increase business agility, simplify operations, and lower total cost of ownership.

SASE vs SSE: What’s the Difference and How Are They Related?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Services Edge (SSE) are network and security management concepts. While they are related, they serve different purposes.

• SASE is a framework that merges network and security services into a unified, cloud-native platform. SASE aims to provide consistent and secure access to applications and services for any user or device, irrespective of location.
• SSE, on the other hand, focuses more specifically on security services. It essentially encompasses the security components of SASE without the networking aspects. This makes SSE more suited to organizations that prioritize security capabilities but do not require advanced networking features.

In essence, SSE could be considered a subset of SASE. The security components that SSE focuses on are part of the larger, more comprehensive SASE framework, which also includes networking capabilities.

SASE and SSE Differences

Both are models for combining networking and security capabilities into a cloud-based service. However, they differ in their focus areas and composition.

• Origins and Focus: SASE is a concept introduced by Gartner in 2019 and represents a model that merges networking and security services into one cloud-native platform. It aims to provide secure and speedy network connections regardless of a user’s location. SSE’s primary focus is on security capabilities without including networking capabilities.
• Constituent Elements: The SASE model predominately comprises two pillars, namely networking and security. The security components include Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and Firewall as a Service (FWaaS). 
• On the networking side, SASE integrates Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN), WAN optimization, and an emphasis on Quality of Service (QoS). In essence, while SSE deals solely with SASE's security elements, SASE integrates these security elements into a broader networking framework.
• Applications: SSE is preferred by organizations that heavily rely on direct internet access and use cloud-based apps but don't require network enhancements like SD-WAN. 
• Such organizations find SSE's provision of cloud-based security efficient and cost-effective. Conversely, SASE is preferred by organizations that require both network optimization and security, especially those with globally dispersed branches or a remote workforce.
• Future Transformation: Adopting SSE can allow for an easy future transition to SASE if a business decides that SD-WAN or other networking capabilities would benefit them.

Key Considerations When Choosing Between SASE and SSE

The choice between SSE and SASE depends on a complex interplay of the organization's current needs, future trends, and existing infrastructure, like the following:

• Specific Requirements: Businesses should assess their practices, such as remote working, use of the cloud, and security needs, to understand which solution would be more beneficial.
• Network Design: If a company has a complex network with remote workers, branch offices, or cloud-based services, a SASE solution may be more advantageous. On the other hand, SSE might be a better fit for a company with a simple network that primarily requires security services.
• Security Priorities: Enterprises prioritizing strong security controls across their cloud resources might choose SSE. However, if the company also requires advanced networking capabilities such as SD-WAN, SASE might be the better choice.
• Organizational Size and Complexity: Larger organizations with a more diverse and dispersed workforce may benefit more from the SASE approach, while smaller organizations or those with less complex networking needs may find SSE more advantageous.
• Scalability: Companies expecting to scale their operations should consider the ease and cost of scaling under each model.
• Vendor Landscape: The vendors' available offerings and the ability to integrate these solutions into the existing IT environment should also be considered.
• Budget: The cost of implementing, managing, and maintaining SASE or SSE solutions should be considered vis-à-vis the organization's budget.
• Future Technology Trends: Future tech trends and the company's direction should also be considered. If the company is likely to move more towards cloud-based operations and remote working, a SASE solution could potentially be more beneficial.
• Regulatory Compliance: Depending on the industry, certain regulatory compliance requirements might steer the decision towards either SASE or SSE.
• Existing IT Infrastructure: The current network and security infrastructure will also significantly influence this decision. Therefore, it is essential to examine whether SASE or SSE would integrate more seamlessly into the existing environment.

How to Choose Between SASE and SSE?

Choosing between Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Service Edge (SSE) can depend on several factors:

• Network Requirements: If your company needs to optimize its network architecture, SASE might be the better choice. SASE combines networking and security capabilities into a single platform. However, an SSE could be better if your organization already has a robust network architecture and you're primarily focused on strengthening security.
• Business Size and Configuration: SASE is generally more suitable for larger enterprises and businesses with multiple branches or a large remote workforce. In contrast, SSE could be a better fit for smaller businesses that are fully remote or don't require expansive networking coverage but still need robust security solutions.
• Level of Cloud Adoption: SASE is made for business operations that heavily use cloud services due to its cloud-native framework. On the other hand, SSE can be convenient for businesses with a mix of cloud and on-premises operations focusing on securing their cloud applications.
• Long-term IT Strategy: If your organization is in the process of moving its operations to the cloud, SASE could be the best option as it supports a holistic digital transformation. If you're focused on improving your security profile in the cloud, SSE can better suit your requirements.
• Budget: Implementing SASE might require a larger upfront investment due to its comprehensive functionality, unlike SSE, which could be a more affordable option focusing solely on security.
• Flexibility: SASE offers more flexibility as it involves both network and security services. SSE could be more advantageous if the main focus is to upgrade security services.

SASE vs SSE: Which One is Right for Your Business?

When it comes to Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Service Edge (SSE), it's not necessarily a question of which one is better—both offer significant advantages for different businesses. It largely depends on your business's specific needs and circumstances.

SASE is a holistic approach that combines networking and security services into a single, cloud-native platform.

SASE is typically suitable for businesses needing a converged networking and security solution, particularly those heavily dependent on cloud-based services or with a widely distributed workforce.

On the other hand, SSE primarily focuses on security and integrates security capabilities such as CASB, ZTNA, and SWG into one cloud-native service.

SSE is typically a good fit for businesses that have already made significant investments in their networking infrastructure and are more focused on enhancing their security capabilities.

The decision between SASE and SSE comes down to an organization's specific needs.

For example, if your organization has a distributed workforce and relies heavily on the Internet or cloud-based applications, SASE might be the better option, as it provides security and improves network performance.

However, if your organization already has a robust networking infrastructure and wants to enhance its security capabilities, SSE would be more appropriate.

It's also important to note that SSE can be part of a larger SASE strategy. In fact, some businesses might start with an SSE solution as they transition to a full SASE model.

What's the Future for SASE and SSE?

Considering the increasing shift towards remote work and cloud services, both Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) and Security Services Edge (SSE) are expected to continue growing. Here are a few predictions about their future:

• Dominance of SASE: According to a Gartner report, by 2024, at least 40% of enterprises will have explicit strategies to adopt SASE, up from less than 1% at the year-end of 2018. The SASE model is, therefore, expected to become the standard for network security.
• Broadening of SSE: As SSE focuses specifically on security, its usage will likely expand, particularly among businesses not requiring the network components of SASE or those with straightforward data paths and don't need application-based routing.
• Integration of Artificial Intelligence: With technology's advancement, both SASE and SSE might see a higher integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance the identification of anomalies and potential security threats and improve overall network performance.
• Digital Transformation Enabler: As organizations continue to move towards a digital-first approach, SASE and SSE will play a vital role in easing this transformation. Firms could adopt SSE first and transition to SASE gradually.
• Vendor Consolidation: As businesses seek simplification, fewer vendors offering both SASE and SSE solutions may consolidate the market. This can lead to comprehensive solutions with better interoperability.
• Enhanced Focus on ZTNA: With increasing cyber threats, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), a key component of both SASE and SSE, will become even more critical. It provides secure access to applications and limits lateral movement within networks.

Let Digital Guardian Help You Figure Out What’s Right

Choosing between SASE and SSE requires carefully evaluating your current network and security architecture, business goals, and operational needs.

As always, it's recommended that you work with a trusted partner like Digital Guardian, who can help guide you through the decision-making process and assist with implementation and ongoing management.