Quick answer: The Best SASE Solution in 2024 is Perimeter 81!
Over the past couple of years, SASE has become a buzzword in the IT industry. Considering what the all-in-one security package offers to various organizations, SASE is indeed revolutionary.
Long story short, the Secure Access Service Edge service makes sure that your organization can avail of the best digital security and access options instead of limiting things to a data center. The benefits of a SASE-enabled organization do not end there.
Since Gartner introduced the term in 2019, SASE solutions have skyrocketed in demand, and we can see plenty of options in the market as well.
So, if your organization wants to enable various features, including secure remote access and cloud-delivered security boosts, SASE may be the best option.
However, before you jump ahead and get one of these services, you should understand what SASE is and the significant benefits you can have.
1. Best SASE Solutions in April 2024
We have used these criteria and a few other points to find the best SASE solutions out there.
1.1 Perimeter 81
1.2 Zscaler
1.3 Cloudflare One
1.4 VMware SASE
VMware SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) is a comprehensive solution designed to address the modern challenges of network security and connectivity, especially for businesses transitioning to or already operating in cloud environments. Here’s why VMware SASE stands out as a solid choice:
-
Cloud-First Approach: VMware’s cloud-first strategy is particularly beneficial for businesses moving away from traditional, centralized network architectures. This approach is more adaptable to the dynamic nature of cloud-based services and reduces vulnerabilities associated with centralized networks.
-
SD-WAN Integration: Integration with VMware SD-WAN allows for the decoupling from underlying network connections. This facilitates secure, independent data transmission over network pathways, enhancing overall network security and efficiency.
-
Secure and Optimized Access: VMware SASE offers Secure Access, based on Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) principles, as an alternative to traditional VPNs. This ensures secure, consistent, and optimal access to cloud applications from remote locations and across various devices.
-
AIOPS-Powered Edge Network Intelligence: The AIOPS (Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations) powered Edge Network Intelligence provides deep visibility from the WAN to branch, WiFi/LAN, and applications. This AI and machine learning-enabled feature enhances network management and troubleshooting.
-
Firewall as a Service (FWaaS): VMware SASE includes a cloud-based firewall solution with advanced features like Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) and Intrusion Protection System (IPS). This offers sophisticated, identity-based protection for both cloud-based and on-premise applications.
-
Pros:
- A comprehensive, cloud-first approach suitable for modern network environments.
- Enhanced security with ZTNA and advanced firewall features.
- AIOPS-powered network intelligence for better management and visibility.
- Integration with VMware SD-WAN for secure, efficient data transmission.
-
Pricing:
- Pricing details are not directly available on the website.
- VMware SASE offers three software editions – Standard, Enterprise, and Premium, with prices obtainable through direct inquiry with VMware.
In summary, VMware SASE is an advanced solution for businesses seeking a secure, efficient, and cloud-compatible networking architecture. Its combination of cloud-first strategy, advanced security features, and AIOPS-powered intelligence makes it a compelling choice for businesses of all sizes. While direct pricing information is not readily available, the range of features offered in its various editions suggests a scalable solution adaptable to different business needs and network environments.
1.5 Forcepoint
Forcepoint ONE stands out as a comprehensive SASE solution, offering a unified security architecture that is particularly effective for cloud network environments. Here’s why Forcepoint is a solid choice for SASE:
-
Integrated Security Solutions: Forcepoint ONE provides a combination of Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), along with Secure Web Gateways. This bundling offers a holistic approach to cloud security.
-
Unified Platform: Everything in Forcepoint ONE is unified under a single platform, console, and agent, simplifying management and ensuring consistent security across the network.
-
Secure Cloud Environment: The solution enables the use of regular apps in a secured cloud environment and provides comprehensive monitoring capabilities. This includes tracking network inconsistencies and preventing unauthorized data downloads to personal devices.
-
Unified Security Policies: Implementing unified security policies applicable to both cloud and on-premise infrastructure is a key feature, ensuring seamless security management and compliance.
-
Real-time Updates and Analysis: Forcepoint ONE offers real-time updates and analysis of all applications on the cloud, enhancing visibility and control over cloud activities.
-
Data Protection Integration: The ability to seamlessly integrate Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions into the cloud adds an extra layer of data protection, crucial for businesses handling sensitive information.
-
GDPR Compliance: Forcepoint’s GDPR solutions simplify compliance by providing a clear roadmap for data across on-premise, cloud, and endpoint devices. This is especially valuable for businesses concerned with adhering to data protection regulations.
-
Pros:
- Offers a combination of ZTNA, CASB, and Secure Web Gateways for comprehensive security.
- Unified platform for easier management and consistent security policy application.
- Enhanced cloud security and monitoring capabilities.
- Simplifies GDPR compliance with specialized solutions.
-
Pricing:
- Forcepoint offers a trial period with full feature access and dedicated support.
- Public pricing is not provided directly, but indicative pricing for a 3-year package is available.
In summary, Forcepoint ONE is a powerful SASE solution offering a blend of essential security services under a unified platform. Its comprehensive cloud security features, combined with unified security policies and GDPR compliance solutions, make it a suitable choice for businesses seeking an all-encompassing approach to cloud network security. While direct pricing information is not readily available, the option for a trial period allows businesses to evaluate the solution before committing.
1.6 Netskope
Netskope stands out as a comprehensive and robust SASE solution, particularly well-suited for large organizations that operate across multiple locations and cloud server environments. Its diverse range of features makes it an effective choice for managing complex infrastructures and ensuring stringent security. Here’s why Netskope is a valuable SASE option:
-
Global Network Presence: With over 50 Points of Presence worldwide, Netskope ensures consistent and high-speed traffic flow while maintaining stringent security protocols. This global reach is particularly beneficial for multinational corporations.
-
Data Loss Protection (DLP): Netskope’s DLP feature offers continuous protection against data leaks and losses, crucial for safeguarding sensitive information.
-
Advanced Threat Protection: The solution provides robust defense mechanisms against emerging cyber threats, ensuring the organization’s network remains secure against sophisticated attacks.
-
Private Access: Netskope facilitates secure and private access to cloud services, ensuring that data transmission and communication are protected from unauthorized access.
-
User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA): The UEBA feature monitors and flags malicious behavior on the network. This analytics-driven approach enhances security by detecting anomalies and potential threats.
-
Adaptive Policy Controls: Netskope’s User Confidence Index scoring and adaptive policy controls automate critical security processes, reducing the workload on IT teams and enhancing overall security posture.
-
Cloud Configuration Monitoring: The solution provides insights into cloud resources and deployments, including AWS and Azure. It helps identify misconfigurations and potential vulnerabilities, allowing for prompt remediation.
-
Pros:
- Comprehensive SASE solution suitable for complex, multi-location infrastructures.
- Global network presence ensures speed and security.
- Advanced security features including DLP, threat protection, and UEBA.
- Automated policy controls and cloud configuration monitoring.
-
Pricing:
- No free trial available, but demo requests are possible.
- Reported pricing starts at $8/month per user for the Discovery plan, and $15/month per user for the Active Platform plan, with additional costs for specific features like malware protection and encryption.
In summary, Netskope offers a powerful and scalable SASE solution that addresses the needs of large organizations with complex cloud and network environments. Its combination of global reach, advanced security features, and cloud monitoring tools make it a compelling choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive and proactive approach to network security and data protection. While the lack of a free trial might be a limitation for some, the range of features and capabilities offered make it a worthwhile consideration for enterprises.
1.7 Cisco Umbrella
Cisco Umbrella is a significant player in the SASE solution space, leveraging Cisco’s extensive experience in networking and security. This solution offers robust cloud-based security features that are especially useful for businesses with a distributed workforce. Here’s a detailed look at why Cisco Umbrella is a good choice:
-
DNS-layer Security: Cisco Umbrella provides DNS-layer security, adding an important layer of protection for both on-premises and remote workers. By routing traffic from risky domains to selective proxies, it ensures comprehensive file and URL inspection, crucial for protecting against breaches.
-
Remote Browser Isolation (RBI): The RBI feature is particularly useful for safe browsing on potentially risky websites. By isolating web traffic in a secure sandbox environment, it prevents malicious activities from affecting the user’s device or the broader network.
-
Integration with Industry-Standard Apps: High-level integration with widely-used applications enhances the utility of Cisco Umbrella, ensuring compatibility and streamlined operations.
-
Real-Time Monitoring and Threat Intelligence: The solution offers real-time monitoring and interactive threat intelligence, ensuring all data passing through the security gateway is thoroughly vetted.
-
Cloud-Delivered Firewall: The inclusion of a cloud-delivered firewall fortifies the network’s defenses, providing an additional layer of security against cyber threats.
-
Pros:
- Strong DNS-layer security for comprehensive protection.
- Useful for both on-premises and remote work environments.
- RBI for secure access to high-risk web content.
- Seamless integration with various applications.
- Real-time threat monitoring for proactive security.
-
Pricing:
- Offers a 14-day free trial without the need for a credit card.
- Multiple packages available: DNS Security Essentials, DNS Security Advantage, SIG Essentials, and SIG Advantage, with DNS Security Essentials starting at $3.35/month per user for the first 100 users.
In summary, Cisco Umbrella is an excellent SASE solution for businesses seeking robust, cloud-based security. Its features like DNS-layer security, RBI, and cloud-delivered firewall make it suitable for a wide range of security needs. The availability of a free trial and multiple pricing packages allows businesses to test and choose a solution that best fits their requirements. Cisco’s reputation and experience in the networking and security space further add to the reliability of Umbrella as a SASE solution.
1.8 Palo Alto
Palo Alto Networks’ Prisma SASE solution is an advanced, comprehensive offering in the Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) market, known for its effective integration of network and security services. Here’s why Palo Alto is considered a strong option for SASE:
-
Globally Secured Distributed Network: Prisma SASE ensures a high level of security across a distributed network, crucial for businesses operating with cloud services and multiple applications. This global approach is key for organizations with a widespread geographical footprint.
-
Autonomous Digital Experience Management (ADEM): The integration of ADEM enhances the end-user experience while providing valuable insights into network performance and user interactions, which is crucial for optimizing network operations and troubleshooting.
-
Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) 2.0: The upgraded ZTNA 2.0 module in Prisma SASE offers improved security, user experience, and traffic handling capabilities. This includes continuous trust verification and unified threat analysis, ensuring comprehensive security.
-
Integration with PAN-OS SD-WAN: Adding PAN-OS SD-WAN to firewall applications brings next-generation machine learning capabilities to the network, enhancing security and operational efficiency. The transition from traditional MPLS to SD-WAN is also streamlined.
-
Advanced Security Layers: Applications are subjected to seven intelligent security layers, providing amped-up protection and reducing the risk of breaches and cyber threats.
-
Okyo Garde for Remote Workers: This feature addresses the unique security challenges of work-from-home employees, offering enterprise-grade security that smartly segments work and personal network usage to mitigate vulnerabilities inherent in home networks.
-
Pros:
- Comprehensive SASE solution with advanced security features.
- Enhanced user experience and network insights with ADEM.
- Upgraded ZTNA 2.0 for continuous trust verification and threat analysis.
- Effective integration of SD-WAN with firewall for improved network management.
-
Pricing:
- Offers four plans: Business, Business Premium, ZTNA, and Enterprise.
- Pricing starts at $6.89/month per user for the starter plan, with the option to add features and services.
In summary, Palo Alto Networks’ Prisma SASE provides a robust and versatile solution for businesses seeking an integrated approach to network security and management. Its combination of advanced security features, user experience enhancements, and machine learning capabilities makes it suitable for a wide range of business needs. While the pricing can vary based on the selected plan and add-ons, the range of features offered makes it a competitive option in the SASE market.
1.9 Twingate
Twingate presents itself as a modern and efficient cloud security solution, emphasizing its strengths as a VPN alternative with Zero Trust architecture. This focus on secure, flexible, and user-friendly access makes it an attractive option for SASE (Secure Access Service Edge). Here’s a detailed look at why Twingate is considered a good SASE solution:
-
Resource-Level Split Tunneling: This feature allows different network paths for various activities on a single device. Users can securely access private networks while simultaneously using other applications like Zoom on a standard connection. This enhances both security and efficiency.
-
NAT Traversal for Reduced Latency: Twingate offers NAT (Network Address Translation) Traversal, which helps in establishing peer-to-peer network connections between clients and resources. This significantly reduces latency, ensuring faster response times and quick access to files.
-
API-First Automation: The API-first approach allows for automated deployment and management. This includes implementing connectors, mapping new resources, and assigning user access, all through a centralized admin API. This feature simplifies network management and enhances scalability.
-
Ease of Switching Networks: The ability to switch between networks easily within the application adds to user convenience and flexibility, making network management more user-friendly.
-
Pros:
- Offers a modern alternative to traditional VPNs with Zero Trust security.
- Resource-level split tunneling for efficient network usage.
- Fast and responsive connections with NAT Traversal.
- Simplified network management through API-first automation.
-
Pricing:
- Twingate offers a free plan limited to 5 users and two remote networks.
- Paid plans start at $5/month per user for the Teams plan, which includes up to 50 users and two devices per person.
- All paid plans come with a 14-day trial, providing an opportunity to evaluate the service.
In summary, Twingate is an innovative SASE solution that combines the security benefits of Zero Trust with the flexibility and efficiency of modern networking solutions. Its resource-level split tunneling, NAT Traversal for reduced latency, and API-first approach for easy network management make it an appealing option for businesses looking to enhance their network security without sacrificing user experience. The availability of both free and paid plans, along with a trial period, also makes it accessible for a range of business sizes and needs.
1.10 Fortinet
Fortinet, with its extensive experience in network security, offers FortiSASE as a compelling SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solution. This service is designed to provide a comprehensive and secure networking experience, suitable for a wide range of business scenarios. Here’s an overview of why Fortinet is a good choice for SASE:
-
Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS): FortiSASE includes an advanced FWaaS that provides robust SSL inspection and threat detection techniques. This next-generation firewall is cloud-delivered, ensuring high levels of security without compromising network speeds.
-
Integrated Zero Trust Network Access: The solution combines FWaaS with integrated Zero Trust Network Access, catering to both edge and remote applications. This integration ensures secure access and minimizes the risk of unauthorized entry into the network.
-
Sandbox Environment for Enhanced Security: Fortinet’s cloud-based sandbox environment isolates and scrutinizes files before they enter the private network. This proactive approach to security helps in identifying and neutralizing malicious files, thereby safeguarding the network.
-
Efficient Traffic Analysis: FortiSASE analyzes inbound and outbound traffic while maintaining network performance. This capability is crucial for businesses that require both high security and efficiency in their network operations.
-
Comprehensive Documentation and Support: Fortinet provides extensive documentation for implementation, management, and troubleshooting, which is beneficial for IT teams. In addition, their live chat support offers real-time assistance for resolving complex issues.
-
Pros:
- Advanced FWaaS with robust security features.
- Seamless integration of Zero Trust Network Access.
- Cloud-based sandboxing for proactive threat mitigation.
- Extensive support resources and live chat assistance.
-
Pricing:
- Pricing details are not publicly available; a quote request is necessary.
- Fortinet offers a free trial for some products and a demo section to test key features.
In summary, Fortinet’s FortiSASE solution stands out as a comprehensive and robust SASE offering, combining advanced security features with efficient network management. Its cloud-based approach, coupled with strong firewall and zero trust capabilities, makes it a suitable solution for businesses looking for a reliable and scalable SASE option. While the lack of public pricing information requires potential users to request a quote, the overall features and reputation of Fortinet in the industry make it a worthwhile consideration for enterprises seeking a secure networking solution.
1.11 ZTEdge SASE
ZTEdge SASE offers a specialized and cost-effective Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution, particularly tailored for organizations with remote workforces and cloud-based network infrastructures. Here’s an overview of why ZTEdge SASE is a strong contender in the SASE market:
-
Cloud Area Network: ZTEdge’s cloud area network provides an affordable infrastructure solution. It features high-grade endpoints and WireGuard UDP/IP tunnels, ensuring efficient performance and reliability across both cloud and on-premise networks.
-
Automatic Policy Builder: One of the standout features of ZTEdge is its automatic policy builder. This tool simplifies the process of creating granular, per-user access policies, saving significant time and effort. The platform also allows for manual overrides and modifications, offering flexibility in network management.
-
AI-Enabled Analysis: The integration of AI-enabled analytics aids in making informed decisions to improve network posture. This feature adds an advanced layer of intelligence to the network management process.
-
Web Application Isolation for Unmanaged Apps: ZTEdge provides security for unmanaged third-party applications through web application isolation. This is crucial for preventing threats and malicious files from compromising the private network.
-
Cost-Effective Solution: ZTEdge positions itself as an affordable SASE solution, making it an attractive option for businesses looking for cost-effective security enhancements for their networks.
-
Pros:
- Affordable SASE solution suitable for remote work-centric networks.
- Efficient performance with high-grade endpoints and secure tunnels.
- Simplified policy creation with an automatic builder and AI analytics.
- Enhanced security for unmanaged apps through isolation.
-
Pricing:
- Pricing details are not directly available on the website. Interested parties need to contact ZTEdge for a quote.
- Customer support can provide pricing recommendations based on specific business requirements.
In summary, ZTEdge SASE is a compelling solution for businesses seeking an affordable yet comprehensive SASE platform. Its focus on cloud networks and remote workforce environments, coupled with features like automatic policy building and web application isolation, make it a particularly suitable choice for modern, distributed businesses. While the lack of transparent pricing on the website necessitates direct contact for quotes, the platform’s emphasis on cost-effectiveness and tailored solutions is likely to appeal to a range of businesses.
1.12 Citrix SD-WAN
Citrix SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) provides a robust SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) solution, known for its reliable network protection and efficient handling of SaaS applications. Here’s a breakdown of why Citrix SD-WAN stands out as a good SASE solution:
-
Always-On Network with WAN-Edge Solutions: Citrix SD-WAN offers an always-on network experience, ensuring continuous connectivity and reliability. This is crucial for businesses relying heavily on cloud services and SaaS applications.
-
Fast Application Delivery: The platform boasts some of the fastest application delivery capabilities in the market, thanks to its state-of-the-art protocols. This ensures optimal performance and user experience.
-
Unified Dashboard for Endpoint Management: Citrix SD-WAN provides a unified console for managing endpoint solutions across various platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, Chrome, and Mac. This feature simplifies the management of devices used for work, enhancing security and efficiency.
-
Desktop as a Service (DaaS): The DaaS offering allows businesses to provide desktops over the cloud, creating a secure working environment. This is especially beneficial for remote work setups, as it leverages centralized hardware for powerful computing capabilities.
-
Network Performance Optimization: In-built analytics reports help in optimizing network performance. Businesses can use these insights to identify and rectify lapses in the network, enhancing overall security and efficiency.
-
Pros:
- Reliable and continuous network connectivity.
- Fast and efficient application delivery.
- Unified endpoint management across multiple platforms.
- DaaS offering for secure and powerful remote working capabilities.
- Network performance optimization through detailed analytics.
-
Pricing:
- Citrix offers a 7-day trial for virtual apps and desktops.
- Pricing on Amazon Web Services marketplace is approximately $2.42/hour, with total costs around $2.82/hour.
- For detailed pricing according to specific needs, it’s recommended to contact Citrix customer support.
In summary, Citrix SD-WAN is a comprehensive SASE solution that excels in providing secure, reliable, and efficient networking for businesses with heavy reliance on cloud and SaaS applications. Its range of features, from fast application delivery to DaaS and network performance optimization, makes it suitable for a variety of business needs, particularly those with remote or distributed workforces. The availability of a trial period and flexible pricing options further adds to its appeal as a versatile SASE option.
2. What is SASE?
SASE stands for Secure Access Service Edge, and it is a network security system that combines many conventional techniques such as SWG, CASB, ZTNA, and FWaaS.
Earlier, components like the Secure Web Gateway, Firewall as a Service, Zero-trust Network Access, and Wide Threat Detection were available individually. It meant the organization needed multiple stands to take care of what was happening across the company. At the same time, the conventional system was not flexible or scalable, either. Since it had many data center-powered services, there were reliability concerns.
In other words, the complexity of the conventional system affected the productivity of businesses, especially during the work-from-home era that the COVID-19 pandemic had sponsored. It meant multiple users living across the globe needed access to confidential/sensitive data from the organization, and a secure path was required. There came the rise of SASE, which checks the boxes of flexibility, usability, scalability, and power.
Now, we shall explore some of the core advantages of implementing SASE.
- Unlike the old system, SASE is more agile and adaptable to change. Since the system exists on the cloud, you do not have to worry about installation and infrastructure requirements on-premises. So, if you want to open up a new branch for your business, a simple internet connection would give you access to all your data.
- As mentioned earlier, SASE brings so many things together into an easy-to-understand package. As a result, you do not have to worry about multiple accounts and dashboards. On the other hand, all the required options will be available on a single dashboard. You can also count on the boosted power and performance from different sectors.
- We already told you that SASE is less complex and more flexible. Here is what it means: you would be able to set up and maintain the entirety of your organization’s digital security from a singular and unified dashboard. You can also count on a variety of monitoring and reporting tools to stay on top of what is happening around you.
- Last but not least, implementing SASE in your organization is an effective way to cut down costs to a great extent. Since you do not have to spend a lot of money on multiple systems, the management aspect becomes easy. It is also worth noting that all transactions from the sector become transparent and easy to understand.
By now, it should be clear to you that implementing SASE will be an excellent step for your organization. But, yet, it does not mean that you can choose one of the random SASE providers out there and expect excellence.
Verdict
Virtually all the SASE solutions we discussed have similar and identical offerings in terms of security and reliability. If you want something right out of the box with reliability, then Perimeter81 would be the place to start. Zscale and VMware score well on the security features scale, which is worth trying.
3. Things to Know When Choosing a SASE Solution
As it happens, you should pay attention to various factors while choosing a SASE solution. Some factors that you should pay attention to are:
- Features: The right SASE solution should have all the features you are looking for. First of all, the tools and solutions must go hand in hand with the software and hardware you already use. It might not be a good idea to change your infrastructure after integrating a SASE into the system.
- Performance: At the end of the day, most people move to SASE to ensure maximum performance. It is imperative that you take care of this aspect as early as possible. The SASE solution must provide the best performance in one sector and pervasively.
- Ease of Use: As we said earlier, the right SASE solution can reduce network complexity and make it easier to manage security in your organization. You should confirm that the SASE solution can achieve this task before making the final purchase.
- Essentials: A few things make SASE the attractive concept it is. One of them is the Zero Trust Network Access, which can revolutionize how you deal with endpoint and overall security in a system. Therefore, you have to ensure these elements are in the SASE package.
- Viability: SASE is not something you want to change on a whimsical episode, right? It is a longer-term commitment by any standard. Therefore, you should check if the SASE solution is rich enough to provide viable solutions on the way.
Last but not least, you should also check whether you get good support and documentation from the SASE solution provider. Otherwise, you may have a difficult time when you come across certain issues on the way.
We earn commissions using affiliate links.