Better IT Operations: How SASE Improves Efficiency and Strategic Focus of IT Teams

One of the most common questions CxOs ask as they look to adopt SASE is:

How will SASE fit with our IT operations and architecture? How can we architecturally align with the cloud-delivered SASE model? How will SASE impact our IT operations? And will our IT teams be able to easily adapt to support this SASE solution?

Which are important questions, particularly because CxOs want to know, for good reason: “how will SASE affect the operations of my IT teams and infrastructure? This article explains exactly how.

First off, why SASE?

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE)

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a transformative approach to network security and connectivity that is revolutionizing IT operations. SASE combines wide-area networking (WAN) capabilities with network security functions to provide a comprehensive, cloud-native solution for secure access to applications and data from any location.

One of the key reasons SASE is gaining traction in the IT world is its ability to address the evolving needs of modern enterprises. Traditional network architectures are struggling to keep pace with the demands of remote work, cloud adoption, and the proliferation of mobile devices. SASE offers a solution by providing a unified, cloud-delivered platform that simplifies network and security management while improving performance and reducing costs.

One of the primary benefits of SASE is its ability to provide secure access to applications and data from any location. With the rise of remote work and the increasing use of cloud-based applications, ensuring secure connectivity has become more important than ever. SASE accomplishes this by consolidating networking and security functions into a single, cloud-native platform, making it easier to manage and more cost-effective.

Another key benefit of SASE is its ability to improve network performance. By optimizing traffic routing and leveraging the scalability of the cloud, SASE can provide faster and more reliable access to applications and data. This is particularly important for enterprises that rely on real-time applications such as video conferencing and collaboration tools.

SASE also offers improved security for modern IT operations. By integrating network security functions such as secure web gateways, firewalls, and zero-trust access controls into the network, SASE can provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of cyber threats. This is crucial in today’s threat landscape, where cyber attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated and frequent.

Overall, SASE represents a paradigm shift in how IT operations are managed. By combining networking and security into a single, cloud-native platform, SASE offers a more efficient and effective solution for modern enterprises. As remote work and cloud adoption continue to grow, SASE is poised to become the standard for secure, high-performance connectivity in the digital age.

Aligning Architecturally with the SASE Model

To adopt a SASE solution, several architectural changes are required to align with its principles of cloud-native, identity-centric security. Here’s how organizations can transition from traditional network architectures to a SASE framework:

1. Understand Current Architecture: Before transitioning to SASE, organizations need to assess their current network architecture, including hardware, software, and security systems.
2. Define Requirements: Identify the specific requirements and goals for transitioning to SASE. This includes understanding the needs of remote workers, cloud applications, and security policies.
3. Cloud Migration Strategy: Develop a strategy for migrating network and security functions to the cloud. This may involve decommissioning on-premises hardware and adopting cloud-based solutions.
4. Implement Zero Trust Architecture: SASE is based on the Zero Trust security model, which assumes that no entity, whether inside or outside the network, can be trusted. Implementing Zero Trust principles is critical for aligning with the SASE model.
5. Adopt Software-Defined Networking (SDN): SDN is a key component of SASE, enabling organizations to dynamically manage and optimize network traffic. Implementing SDN can help organizations transition to a more agile and scalable network architecture.
6. Integrate Security Functions: SASE combines networking and security functions into a single, cloud-delivered platform. Organizations should integrate security functions such as secure web gateways, firewalls, and zero-trust access controls into their network architecture.
7. Define Policies and Procedures: Establish policies and procedures for managing and monitoring the SASE environment. This includes defining access control policies, monitoring network traffic, and responding to security incidents.
8. Training and Education: Provide training and education to IT teams to ensure they understand the new architecture and how to manage and support it effectively.

Transitioning to a SASE framework requires a comprehensive approach that includes assessing current architecture, defining requirements, developing a cloud migration strategy, implementing Zero Trust principles, adopting SDN, integrating security functions, defining policies and procedures, and providing training and education to IT teams.

The Transformation of IT Operations with SASE

With SASE, organizations can streamline their IT operations, reduce complexity, and improve efficiency. Here’s how IT operations will change with the adoption of SASE:

1. Shift from Traditional Infrastructure Management: SASE eliminates the need for organizations to manage and maintain complex network infrastructure. Instead, networking and security functions are delivered as a service from the cloud. This shift reduces the burden on IT teams and allows them to focus on more strategic initiatives.
2. Cloud-Delivered Services: SASE leverages the scalability and flexibility of the cloud to deliver networking and security services. This allows organizations to quickly deploy new services, scale resources up or down as needed, and adapt to changing business requirements.
3. Reduction in Operational Tasks: With SASE, many day-to-day operational tasks, such as infrastructure and capacity planning, updating, patching, and fixing, are offloaded to the SASE provider. This reduces the workload on IT teams and allows them to focus on higher-value activities.
4. Improved Security Posture: SASE provides a comprehensive security solution that includes secure web gateways, firewalls, zero-trust access controls, and more. This improves the overall security posture of organizations and reduces the risk of cyber threats.
5. Enhanced Visibility and Control: SASE provides organizations with greater visibility and control over their network traffic. This allows them to monitor and manage network activity more effectively and respond to security incidents more quickly.
6. Cost Savings: By offloading operational tasks to the SASE provider and leveraging the scalability of the cloud, organizations can reduce costs associated with managing and maintaining on-premises infrastructure.

The adoption of SASE allows organizations to streamline their operations, improve security, and focus on strategic initiatives that drive business value.

Adapting IT Teams to Support a SASE Cloud Solution

Transitioning to a SASE cloud solution requires IT teams to adapt to new ways of working and develop new skills. Here’s how organizations can ensure their IT teams are ready to support a SASE environment:

1. Level of Cloud Expertise Required: While a deep understanding of cloud technologies is beneficial, it is not always required. Many SASE providers offer managed services that handle the technical details, allowing IT teams to focus on higher-level tasks.
2. Adaptability to SASE Environment: IT teams can easily adapt to a SASE environment by focusing on developing skills related to cloud computing, network security, and software-defined networking (SDN). Training programs and certifications can help IT teams acquire these skills.
3. Training and Development Programs: Organizations should invest in training and development programs to upskill IT personnel. This can include training on cloud computing platforms, SDN technologies, and security best practices.
4. Collaboration and Communication Skills: As IT teams transition to a SASE environment, they will need to collaborate more closely with other departments, such as security and compliance. Developing strong collaboration and communication skills is essential for success in a SASE environment.
5. Continuous Learning Opportunities: IT teams should be encouraged to continuously learn and stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in cloud computing and network security. This can be done through online courses, workshops, and conferences.

By investing in training and development programs, organizations can ensure their IT teams are prepared to support a SASE cloud solution and contribute to the overall success of the organization.

Building an Agile and Dynamic IT Organization

SASE contributes to building a more agile and dynamic IT organization by enabling IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business value. Here’s how SASE helps build an agile and dynamic IT organization:

1. Offloading Mundane Operational Tasks: SASE offloads many day-to-day operational tasks, such as infrastructure and capacity planning, updating, patching, and fixing, to the cloud provider. This allows IT teams to focus on higher-value activities that contribute to the organization’s strategic goals.
2. Focusing on Strategic Projects: With SASE handling routine operational tasks, IT teams can devote more time and resources to strategic projects that drive business growth. This can include implementing new technologies, improving IT processes, and enhancing cybersecurity measures.
3. Increasing Flexibility and Scalability: SASE provides organizations with greater flexibility and scalability, allowing them to quickly adapt to changing business requirements. This agility enables IT teams to respond more effectively to new opportunities and challenges.
4. Improving Collaboration and Communication: SASE promotes collaboration and communication within IT teams and across departments. By breaking down silos and fostering a culture of collaboration, organizations can improve efficiency and innovation.
5. Enhancing Customer Experience: SASE helps IT teams deliver a better customer experience by ensuring that applications and data are securely accessible from anywhere, at any time. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.

SASE enables organizations to build a more agile and dynamic IT organization by offloading mundane operational tasks, focusing on strategic projects, increasing flexibility and scalability, improving collaboration and communication, and enhancing the customer experience.

Inspiring IT Teams to Develop New Skills

As organizations transition to a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) model, it is crucial to motivate and inspire IT teams to develop new skills that align with this modern approach to networking and security. Here are some effective strategies to encourage skill development and growth within IT teams:

1. Education and Awareness: Start by educating IT teams about the benefits and principles of SASE. Help them understand how transitioning to a SASE model will enhance their skills and contribute to the organization’s success. This awareness can inspire them to take proactive steps towards skill development.
2. Setting Clear Goals: Define clear goals and objectives for skill development that are aligned with the organization’s SASE strategy. This will give IT teams a clear direction and purpose for their learning efforts.
3. Offering Training Programs: Provide access to training programs and courses that focus on relevant skills for the SASE model, such as cloud computing, software-defined networking (SDN), and cybersecurity. Consider partnering with reputable training providers or offering in-house training sessions.
4. Encouraging Certification: Encourage IT team members to pursue certifications that are relevant to SASE, such as Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Certifications not only validate their skills but also boost their confidence and motivation.
5. Continuous Learning Opportunities: Create a culture of continuous learning within the organization. Encourage IT team members to attend conferences, webinars, and workshops related to SASE and other relevant topics. Provide opportunities for them to share their learnings with the team.
6. Recognizing and Rewarding Achievements: Recognize and reward IT team members who actively engage in skill development and demonstrate a commitment to learning. This can include promotions, bonuses, or other forms of recognition.
7. Supporting Career Growth: Provide opportunities for career growth within the organization. Encourage IT team members to pursue roles and responsibilities that align with their newly developed skills in the SASE model.

Enhancing NOC and SOC Operations with SASE

Implementing a SASE model can significantly enhance the capabilities of Network Operations Centers (NOC) and Security Operations Centers (SOC). Here’s how SASE strengthens NOC and SOC operations:

1. 360-Degree Coverage: SASE provides comprehensive coverage for network and security issues, offering visibility and control over all traffic, regardless of the location or device. This ensures that NOC and SOC teams can monitor and respond to threats effectively.
2. Unified Security Policies: SASE enables organizations to enforce unified security policies across the entire network, including remote locations and cloud environments. This simplifies security management for NOC and SOC teams.
3. Improved Incident Response: With SASE, NOC and SOC teams can respond to incidents more quickly and effectively. The centralized nature of SASE allows for faster detection and mitigation of security threats.
4. Enhanced Threat Detection: SASE enhances threat detection capabilities by leveraging advanced security technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). These technologies can identify and respond to threats in real-time, reducing the risk of security breaches.
5. Reduced Complexity: SASE simplifies network and security architecture, reducing the complexity of managing NOC and SOC operations. This allows teams to focus on strategic initiatives rather than routine tasks.

SASE strengthens NOC and SOC operations by providing 360-degree coverage for network and security issues, unified security policies, improved incident response, enhanced threat detection, and reduced complexity. Organizations that successfully transition to SASE can significantly enhance the capabilities of their NOC and SOC teams, leading to a more secure and efficient IT environment.

Strategic Focus and Business Impact

IT teams are under increasing pressure to not only maintain a secure and efficient network but also to drive innovation and support business growth. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a key enabler for IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives that directly impact business value.

Focusing on Strategic Initiatives

SASE allows IT teams to shift their focus from managing network infrastructure and security to driving strategic initiatives that align with business objectives. By offloading routine operational tasks to the cloud provider, IT teams can dedicate more time and resources to projects that directly contribute to the organization’s bottom line. This includes initiatives such as digital transformation, improving customer experience, and developing new products or services.

Alignment of IT Goals with Business Objectives

One of the key benefits of SASE is its ability to align IT goals with overall business objectives. By providing a secure and reliable network infrastructure, SASE enables IT teams to support the organization’s broader strategic goals. For example, if the business objective is to expand into new markets, IT can use SASE to quickly and securely deploy network resources to support the expansion. This alignment ensures that IT investments and initiatives are directly contributing to the success of the organization.

Examples of Strategic Projects

1. Digital Transformation: SASE enables organizations to accelerate their digital transformation initiatives by providing a secure and agile network infrastructure. IT teams can use SASE to quickly deploy new cloud-based applications and services, improve collaboration among remote teams, and enhance the overall digital experience for customers.
2. Improved Customer Experience: SASE can help IT teams enhance the customer experience by ensuring that applications and services are always available and secure. For example, by using SASE to optimize network performance, IT teams can ensure that customers have fast and reliable access to online services, leading to higher satisfaction and loyalty.
3. Enhanced Security Posture: SASE strengthens an organization’s security posture by providing advanced security capabilities such as zero-trust access controls and real-time threat detection. IT teams can use SASE to proactively identify and mitigate security threats, reducing the risk of data breaches and other cyber attacks.
4. Cost Optimization: By consolidating networking and security functions into a single cloud-delivered platform, SASE can help IT teams optimize costs. For example, by reducing the need for on-premises hardware and simplifying network management, organizations can lower their overall IT costs and allocate resources more efficiently.

SASE enables IT teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business value by aligning IT goals with overall business objectives. By leveraging SASE to offload routine operational tasks and strengthen their security posture, IT teams can drive innovation, improve customer experience, and support the organization’s growth and success.

Conclusion

So, how will SASE affect how your IT teams and infrastructure operate?

Transitioning to a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) model represents a new shift in how IT operations are managed. By aligning architecturally with the SASE model, organizations can streamline their operations, improve security, and focus on strategic initiatives that drive business value. The move to a 100% cloud-delivered SASE solution raises questions about the level of cloud expertise required, but SASE providers typically handle the complexities, allowing IT teams to adapt easily. This transition empowers IT teams to focus on strategic, thought-provoking projects, enhancing their creativity and innovation.

With SASE, organizations can offload mundane operational tasks, such as infrastructure management and security updates, to the SASE cloud provider, leading to a more agile and dynamic IT organization. Overall, SASE enables IT teams to shift their focus from day-to-day support tasks to strategic projects that propel the business forward, ultimately driving efficiency and enhancing the overall effectiveness of IT operations.