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Introduction to CASB and ZTNA

In today's digital landscape, securing access to data and applications is more critical than ever. CASB (Cloud Access Security Broker) protects cloud-based applications and data, offering visibility, control, and compliance across cloud environments. It helps organisations monitor usage, enforce security policies, and ensure compliance. On the other hand, ZTNA (Zero Trust Network Access) provides secure access to network resources. This is achieved by verifying the identity of users and devices, regardless of their location. When considering CASB vs. ZTNA, it's essential to understand that while CASB secures cloud applications, ZTNA secures network access with a zero-trust approach.

What is Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)?

A Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) is a security tool between cloud service consumers and providers, helping organisations enforce security policies for cloud applications. It extends security controls beyond the traditional network perimeter, ensuring data protection, compliance with regulations, and threat mitigation. CASB offers visibility into cloud usage, monitors activities, and helps organisations manage access, ensuring that sensitive data remains secure while meeting regulatory requirements.

What is Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)?

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), also known as Software-Defined Perimeter (SDP), is a security technology that allows authorised users to access specific private applications without granting access to the entire corporate network. ZTNA ensures that access is only granted after verifying the user's identity and context, enforcing a "never trust, always verify" approach. This controls the threat of unauthorised access and protects sensitive resources, making it a crucial part of modern cybersecurity strategies.

Core functions of CASB

A Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) is a key security tool that helps organisations secure their cloud services. It provides visibility, control, and protection for cloud applications and data. The core functions of a CASB include:

  • Visibility: CASBs can discover and monitor cloud services and users, even outside the organisation's network policies. They also provide insights into cloud spending and app usage.
  • Compliance: CASBs help ensure that data stored in the cloud meets regulatory requirements like GDPR or HIPAA. They assist in improving and reporting on compliance efforts.
  • Data security: Through encryption and other security measures, CASBs protect sensitive data at rest and in transit. They defend against data breaches and cyber threats.
  • Threat protection: CASBs can detect and isolate cloud-based threats like malware and ransomware, preventing them from compromising the organisation's cloud applications and resources.

Core functions of ZTNA

The core functions of ZTNA include:

  • Identifying: ZTNA starts by mapping all systems, applications, and resources users might need to access remotely. This helps define what needs protection.
  • Enforcing: It sets strict access policies based on the user's identity, device, and context to grant access only to the necessary resources.
  • Monitoring: ZTNA continuously logs and analyses all access attempts to ensure policies are followed and potential threats are detected early.
  • Adjusting: If any misconfigurations or issues are found, ZTNA adjusts access privileges, increasing or reducing them to maintain security.

Key differences between CASB and ZTNA

Both Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) are essential security technologies. However, they serve different purposes and function in distinct ways. While CASB is focused on securing cloud environments, ZTNA is designed to manage secure access to internal applications. Understanding their differences is essential for organisations implementing the right security strategy.

Aspect CASBZTNA 
Purpose Secures cloud environments.Governs access to internal applications.
How it worksActs as an intermediary between users and cloud apps, enforcing policies.Verifies user identity to grant access to specific apps, denying access by default.
FeaturesProvides visibility into cloud usage and detects threats.Offers granular access controls and strong authentication mechanisms.
RisksExpensive and complex to implement.Vulnerable to compromised credentials.
Application coverageFocused on cloud apps and data.May not cover legacy or on-premises apps.

When to use CASB for cloud security

CASBs provide a range of features that help manage cloud security risks and compliance. Here are some situations where CASB is particularly beneficial:

  • Have shadow IT: CASBs help organisations identify and manage unauthorised cloud services used by employees, providing visibility into unmonitored activities.
  • Work in highly regulated industries: CASBs ensure compliance with strict regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS by providing tools to secure data and monitor cloud access.
  • Manage sensitive or confidential information: CASBs enforce data loss prevention policies, protect sensitive data during cloud transfers, and prevent unauthorised access or data breaches.

When considering CASB vs. ZTNA, CASB is particularly suited for cloud-specific security needs, while ZTNA focuses on controlling access to internal network resources.

When to use ZTNA for network security

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) is a powerful security model that provides enhanced protection. It verifies every user and device before granting access to any resources. This can be particularly beneficial in various scenarios to reduce risks and strengthen network security.

  • Remote work: ZTNA enables secure remote work by providing access to specific applications and resources based on need, ensuring secure connections from any location.
  • Data security compliance: ZTNA helps organisations meet data security compliance requirements by enforcing strict access policies.
  • Internal network security: It strengthens internal security by verifying users and devices before granting access.
  • Replacing traditional security models: ZTNA overcomes the limitations of perimeter-based security models by securing resources per-user.
  • Replacing VPNs: ZTNA replaces traditional VPNs, offering more granular, controlled access rather than broad network access.
  • Replacing firewalls and private WANs: ZTNA can replace traditional firewalls and private WANs by securely managing access and separating resources via policies.

CASB vs. ZTNA: Which solution fits your needs?

The decision between ZTNA and CASB depends on your organisation’s specific needs. If your primary focus is securing access to internal applications across your network, ZTNA should be your go-to solution. However, if your organisation operates heavily in the cloud and needs to manage access, compliance, and security of cloud applications, CASB is essential. In many cases, combining both solutions provides a comprehensive security framework, with ZTNA securing the network perimeter and CASB ensuring cloud security.

Having both ZTNA and CASB is often the most effective approach, as they complement each other to provide comprehensive security across your entire infrastructure—network and cloud. That’s why it’s essential to carefully evaluate your organisation’s needs, and this is where a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can be an invaluable partner. An MSP can help assess your specific requirements, advise on the best combination of ZTNA and CASB for your environment, and ensure seamless implementation. With their expertise, an MSP will ensure both solutions work in harmony, delivering robust, unified security across your organisation’s network and cloud environments.

Conclusion

CASB and ZTNA play crucial roles in securing modern enterprise environments but serve different purposes. CASB focuses on securing cloud applications and ensuring compliance, while ZTNA ensures secure, granular access to internal resources, regardless of location. CASB is ideal for managing cloud data and services, while ZTNA excels at controlling access to sensitive network resources. Choosing the right solution is made based on your organisation's specific needs—cloud security or network access control.
Tata Communications offers advanced solutions to help businesses implement CASB and ZTNA effectively. Their expertise in network security ensures your cloud and network access is protected, assisting organisations in reducing risks and maintaining compliance. With Tata Communications, businesses can seamlessly integrate CASB and ZTNA, tailoring them to their unique security needs. Learn how Tata Communications can enhance security with ZTNA solutions. Reach out today to learn more about how we can protect your cloud and network access.

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