SASE vs. SSE: A guide to choosing the right security architecture

With remote work and cloud-based operations dominating the industry, understanding the concepts of SASE and SSE can help organisations simplify their network security strategies effectively.

SASE integrates advanced networking capabilities with robust security functions, offering agility and enhanced performance across diverse IT environments. Meanwhile, SSE focuses on delivering essential cloud-centric security services, which are crucial for protecting remote workforce access and securing sensitive corporate resources.

Read along to learn in detail about SSE vs SASE!

What is SASE?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) represents a modern approach to network security integrating Wide Area Network (WAN) capabilities with comprehensive security functions. Coined by Gartner in 2019, SASE aims to enhance enterprise agility and network performance by consolidating networking and security into a cloud-based service.

By combining features like SD-WAN with advanced security measures such as anti-malware protections and cloud access security brokers, SASE ensures secure and efficient access to applications and data from anywhere, supporting today’s distributed workforce and cloud-centric IT environments.

What is SSE?

SSE, or Security Service Edge, is a subset within the broader SASE framework that focuses specifically on delivering essential security services via a cloud platform. Introduced by Gartner in 2021, SSE integrates important security capabilities such as:

• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
• Cloud Secure Web Gateway (SWG)
• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)
• Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS)

This approach enhances organisations’ ability to provide secure access to websites, SaaS, and private applications while monitoring user behaviour and ensuring data protection. SSE is pivotal in safeguarding remote and mobile users, aligning with the evolving demands of modern hybrid work environments.

What are the similarities between SASE and SSE?

Before understanding the differences, let’s first look at how the two concepts are similar:

Integrated security functions

Both SASE and SSE integrate various essential security functions into their frameworks. These include:

• Secure Web Gateway (SWG): Filters and monitors web traffic to protect against internet-borne threats.
• Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB): Ensures secure access to cloud applications and data by enforcing security policies.
• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA): Verifies identities and grants access based on least privilege principles, enhancing security.
• Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS): Provides firewall protection as a cloud-based service, securing network traffic.

Cloud-native delivery model

SASE and SSE use a cloud-native delivery model, delivering security services directly from the cloud. This approach is aligned with modern enterprise trends towards cloud-based resources and services. It offers several advantages:

• Scalability: Easily scales security measures to meet growing business needs without significant infrastructure changes.
• Flexibility: Adapts quickly to changes in network demands and business operations.
• Responsiveness: Provides immediate updates and patches, ensuring up-to-date security against emerging threats.

Emphasis on zero trust principles

Both SASE and SSE incorporate zero-trust principles into their security frameworks. Zero trust networking operates under the assumption that no entity, whether inside or outside the organisation's network perimeter, should be trusted by default. Key aspects include:

• Continuous verification: Requires ongoing validation of user identities and access requests.
• Least privilege access: This type of access grants users the minimal access rights necessary for them to perform their roles, reducing the attack surface.

Difference between SASE and SSE

When deciding between SSE vs SASE, it’s crucial to understand their distinct roles and how they cater to different organisational needs within IT security and network architecture.

Scope of services

SSE: SSE focuses solely on providing advanced security services within cloud environments. It includes essential security functions like SWG and ZTNA. SSE is designed to ensure secure access to cloud applications and services, emphasising data protection and threat prevention.

SASE: SASE, on the other hand, integrates both networking and security services into a unified cloud-delivered platform. In addition to the security services offered by SSE, SASE incorporates networking capabilities such as Software Defined WAN (SD-WAN), WAN optimisation, and Quality of Service (QoS). This integration aims to streamline network management while enhancing security across distributed environments.

Network integration

SSE: SSE does not include SD-WAN or other networking optimisations. It focuses exclusively on securing access and data flows within cloud environments, leveraging existing network infrastructures for connectivity.

SASE: SASE integrates networking functionalities like SD-WAN alongside security services. This dual integration optimises network performance and ensures secure connectivity for users accessing cloud applications and services from various locations.

Target deployment

SSE: Ideal for organisations prioritising robust security measures for cloud-based operations without needing advanced network management capabilities. SSE is suitable for businesses looking to enhance security posture in cloud environments.

SASE: SASE is tailored for enterprises with complex, distributed networks and a diverse workforce. It provides a comprehensive solution for securing and optimising network connectivity across multiple locations and user endpoints.

Implementation considerations

SSE: Choosing SSE allows organisations to enhance their security infrastructure within existing network frameworks. It provides a strategic approach to adopting cloud-based security services while maintaining current network setups.

SASE: Implementing SASE involves a more comprehensive transformation, integrating networking and security strategies into a unified cloud service model. It benefits organisations undergoing digital transformation initiatives seeking to consolidate IT operations.

How to choose the right security architecture?

Choosing the right security architecture for your organisation involves carefully considering several key factors tailored to your needs and infrastructure. Here’s how you can do this:

Understand your organisational needs

Firstly, assess your organisation's security requirements. SSE is suitable if you prioritise having robust security services deeply integrated within your network setup. This is particularly crucial for sectors like finance, government, and healthcare, where stringent security measures are vital.

On the other hand, SASE offers a comprehensive solution that combines networking and security services into one cohesive platform. This benefits organisations aiming to provide secure access across various locations and devices, especially for a dispersed or remote workforce.

Balance security and networking priorities

Consider whether your top priority is enhancing security measures or improving network performance. SSE excels in providing various security services tailored to protect cloud applications and services. Meanwhile, if your focus is on enhancing network scalability and performance, SASE might be better due to its integrated approach.

Support for remote workforce and branch offices

Evaluate how each architecture supports your remote workforce and branch offices. SSE is often integrated with on-premises infrastructure, making it ideal for reinforcing network security at the edge of your network. In contrast, SASE operates as a cloud-native solution with global points of presence, simplifying network architecture, especially for remote users and branch offices.

Consider your existing network infrastructure

Assess the complexity and maturity of your current network infrastructure. Organisations with intricate or legacy systems may find SASE advantageous as it offers a smoother migration path towards a cloud-native architecture. SSE, however, may be more suitable for organisations with simpler network needs or those prioritising on-premises security solutions.

Vendor support and flexibility

Evaluate the vendor support and flexibility each architecture offers. SSE requires strong vendor support with reliable Service-Level Agreements (SLAs) tailored for inspecting traffic and managing security for large enterprises. Conversely, SASE offers a streamlined management approach with potential long-term cost savings by reducing the need for multiple security tools.

Budget and scalability

Consider your budget constraints and scalability requirements. While SASE solutions may have higher initial costs, they often provide significant savings over time by consolidating security and networking functions. SSE, in contrast, might be a more cost-effective option for organisations that do not need the full spectrum of networking services integrated into SASE.

Transition path and expert consultation

Lastly, plan your transition path if you’re considering moving from traditional on-premises security to a cloud-based architecture like SASE. SSE can serve as a transitional step, allowing you to gradually adopt cloud-native security solutions aligned with your business goals. Consulting with network security experts can provide invaluable insights to ensure your chosen architecture effectively meets your unique requirements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the relationship between Security Service Edge (SSE) and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is crucial for organisations navigating their security architecture choices. SSE forms the foundational security layer within SASE, focusing on critical security services at the network edge, like identity management and data protection. This integration ensures robust security enforcement alongside optimised network performance.

Tata Communications offers robust SASE and SSE solutions designed to address the growing need for secure, scalable, and agile digital environments. Our Managed SASE solutions integrate SSE capabilities to deliver a unified approach to security across web, cloud, and SaaS applications, reducing complexity and improving visibility.

Whether you are adopting SD-WAN, SSE, or both, our tailored solutions ensure that your security strategy aligns with your business goals. Also, with 99.8% first-time-right deployment, AI-powered management, and a flexible, modular approach, Tata Communications makes it easier for organisations to streamline their security operations. Contact us today to explore how our SASE and SSE solutions can help secure your network while optimising performance across your enterprise.