Intelligent CIO Africa Issue 86 | Page 68

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John Mc Loughlin , CEO at J2 Software
unwanted access attempts to locations , applications , and resources .
Elements of SSE
SSE is a concept aimed at providing improved protection and network performance for organisations relying on cloud-based services and virtual networking . It offers a holistic approach to security and networking , focusing on network edge security . It streamlines infrastructure , enhances efficiency , and brings security services closer to users and applications , reducing latency and improving the user experience .
SSE comprises several components that set it apart from other network security approaches :
• Network Transformation , SDN : SSE involves a shift toward cloud-based services and virtualisation , replacing traditional hardware-centric networks with software-defined networks , SDN that provide flexibility and agility .
• Security Integration : SSE incorporates security functions into the network edge , eliminating the need for separate security appliances at multiple locations . This consolidation simplifies architecture , reduces costs , and bolsters security .
• Service Optimisation : SSE places emphasis on enhancing network performance and user experience by bringing security services closer to the network edge , reducing latency and improving responsiveness .
• Zero Trust Network Access , ZTNA : SSE can implement ZTNA principles , enforcing strict access controls , user identity verification , and device health checks to secure network resources at the edge .
• Cloud Secure Web Gateway , SWG : Integration of a Cloud Secure Web Gateway enhances web security , incorporating features such as web filtering , data loss prevention , and malware detection to protect users accessing resources via the network edge .
• Cloud Access Security Broker , CASB : CASB integration within SSE provides visibility and control over cloud services and applications , offering user authentication , access control policies , data encryption , and monitoring of cloud service usage at the network edge .
• Firewall-as-a-Service , FWaaS : FWaaS can be integrated into SSE as a vital security component , monitoring and controlling network traffic with features such as network segmentation , traffic inspection , intrusion prevention , and threat detection .
Benefits of SSE
SSE brings security closer to users and applications , enabling proactive threat detection , real-time monitoring , and rapid response to potential security incidents . It also ensures secure access to cloud
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