Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) is a cloud delivered architecture that converges networking and security into a single service model. It provides a unified framework for enforcing policies, connecting users, and securing data across distributed environments.
SASE integrates SD WAN, secure web gateways, cloud firewalling, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) functions, and DNS security under one policy fabric. These capabilities operate from cloud points of presence rather than traditional perimeter appliances.
At its core, SASE delivers identity based, context aware access to applications and data from any location. User identity, device posture, application type, and risk levels inform every access decision.
This model supports cloud transformation and distributed workforces by moving security controls to the cloud edge where users and applications reside, reducing latency and simplifying operations.
SASE emerged as organizations modernized their infrastructure, adopted SaaS, and expanded remote and hybrid work. Traditional perimeter based tools could not consistently secure users and data spread across branch offices, home networks, and cloud platforms.
SASE replaces appliance driven inspection with cloud delivered routing, security checks, and policy enforcement. Traffic is directed to the nearest cloud edge, where it is inspected and then routed to its destination. This approach provides consistent controls regardless of user location or network path.
In practice, SASE standardizes how access is determined, how threats are blocked, and how traffic is monitored across devices, identities, and environments. It allows teams to operate from a central policy engine rather than managing isolated point solutions.
Organizations adopt SASE in response to shifts in how users access applications and how networks are built. Several trends highlight the limitations of traditional perimeter based models and make a cloud delivered architecture more practical.
Implementing a SASE architecture allows organizations to enforce policies consistently and inspect traffic closer to where users and applications operate. These capabilities support both security and operational goals.
| Concept | Scope | Components | Use Case |
| SASE | Networking plus security | SD WAN + cloud security stack | Network modernization with unified security |
| SSE | Security only | SWG, CASB, ZTNA | Security modernization without WAN change |
SASE includes both networking and security capabilities, while SSE focuses solely on the cloud based security components. Organizations that want to modernize security without modifying their WAN infrastructure often begin with SSE. Those looking for a full network and security transformation typically pursue SASE.
Learn more about DNS Protection’s Role in SSE and SASE