SEACOM Business offers SASE network architecture

When it comes to network architecture, enterprises have a variety of options. Multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) and secure access service edge (SASE) architecture can all be used to build IT networks. The best architecture solution will depend entirely on the requirements of your company. Each of these platforms offers benefits and drawbacks.

SEACOM Business specialises in SD-WAN and SASE architecture for large enterprises in Kenya and East Africa. SASE, one of the more modern solutions, is a great platform for business networks that place security as a central tenet of functionality. A SASE network, as the name suggests, is a secure cloud-based architecture that connects users, systems and devices to cloud applications anywhere in the world.

Devices, data and employees are dispersed across the country in the age of remote working. Enterprises are shifting their strategies as a result of the new complexities this brings to managing IT infrastructure and networks. In addition, networks must be extremely secure while still being scalable due to the rise in the frequency of cyberattacks on large enterprises.

SASE networks excel in this area. It improves the delivery of cloud applications and adopts a zero-trust approach to network security. This not only enhances user experience and strengthens the security posture of the business, but it also provides improved network visibility and eases the burden on IT managers.

What is a cloud-native SASE architecture

Cloud-native in the context of a SASE network implies that the security and network operations are wholly delivered from a multi-tenant, global cloud environment. This makes security accessible to any user, wherever they may be, and allows complete remote access and control.

A cloud-native architecture is made up of three components:

1. The cloud architecture - This is made up of things called enforcement nodes that are present in over 160 points of presence (PoPs) around the world. In essence, this allows network users to connect locally to security applications with the smallest delay possible.
2. Extending security to the endpoint - To achieve this, a client connector is installed onto an employee’s device which securely interacts with the cloud environment.
3. Application connectors - These are placed wherever the company has private applications that employees need to access.

What does this all achieve? All of these connections to cloud-based software and applications are outbound links. As a result, the company no longer needs to publish IP addresses, which takes the network dark and reduces attack surfaces. This straightforward security policy also uses a zero-trust access control list, which blocks all inbound links until their authenticity has been confirmed in full.

The SASE architecture will locate the employee's position when they connect to the network, determine the closest enforcement node and terminate their session at that node. If the employee has been granted access by the zero-trust policy, they will be directed to their intended destination on the network. This removes threat exposure and improves the level of security for the network and the connected devices.

Key features of a SEACOM Business SASE network

Adopting a cloud-native SASE network architecture has six major benefits:

1. Alleviates other architecture limitations and supports application access down to the end-point.
2. Full enterprise security from the network to the end-point, whether the workforce is on-premises or remote.
3. Reduces network appliances through global PoPs that connect users to the internet, apps, networks and branches.
4. Zero-trust security policy that prevents compromised devices or unauthorised users from accessing the network.
5. Full control and visibility of the network and apps.
6. Single vendor approach that combines several technologies into one solution. These include cyber security, WAN, monitoring, identity verification and reducing complexity.

SEACOM Business offers cloud-native SASE network architecture, powered by Zscaler, to companies in East Africa. This cutting-edge architecture really simplifies things while enhancing user experience and cloud performance. For more information or to get a quote for our SASE networking architecture services, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables. We offer a wide range of industry-leading scalable ICT solutions for large companies that operate throughout the region.

SEACOM is privately owned - making it adaptable to the needs of the client. We are the preferred ICT and internet connectivity supplier for African enterprises. We can guarantee fast, reliable and secure internet and networking services at affordable prices.

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