Beyond the hype: Demystifying SASE implementation for South African businesses

Businesses in South Africa are dealing with a range of new challenges; cyber security being chief among those. A startling 42% increase in cyber attacks against South African enterprises has been reported in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the same time in 2023, according to recent research by Cyber Security Africa. This concerning figure emphasises how urgently reliable cyber security solutions are needed.

Secure Access Service Edge, or SASE, is one approach that is becoming increasingly popular. Even if SASE has gained some notoriety, South African companies looking for a more effective and safe approach to network security may find that realising its potential can have a profound impact.

How does SASE help businesses?

SASE is a security concept that operates in the cloud and unifies networking and security features into a single platform. In the past, companies used a disorganised collection of point solutions, such as web filters, firewalls, and secure online gateways, to protect their networks. SASE offers a full array of security capabilities as a service, simplifying this complicated landscape.

SASE helps South African enterprises by enhancing security across multiple branches and localities. Regardless of a user's location, enterprises can design and implement security policies for devices, applications, and users thanks to SASE's more granular approach to access management. This is especially helpful in a hybrid work environment, as employees are using company resources remotely more often.

SASE also makes it possible for consumers to access secure apps without difficulty from any device by doing away with the requirement for complicated VPN connections. Employees will benefit from a more efficient and effective work environment as a result.

The technology can assist companies in lowering the total cost of operating their cyber security infrastructure by combining security solutions onto a single platform. SASE systems are also naturally scalable, making it simple for companies to modify their security posture in response to expansion or shifting demands.

Why should companies in South Africa use SASE?

Many companies may perceive SASE as a complicated network structure, however, cloud-based apps and remote work paradigms are being rapidly adopted by South Africa's business community. Conventional security solutions frequently struggle to keep up with this digital revolution. SASE provides a reliable, long-term solution for securely securing these dynamic situations.

The following are some strong arguments in favour of SASE for South African businesses:

1) Compliance - Since South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) went into effect in July 2021, companies are required by law to secure client information. SASE can assist companies in making sure that data privacy laws are followed.

2) Cloud adoption - In South Africa, cloud migration is becoming more and more popular. Cloud-based apps may be smoothly integrated with SASE, which offers a uniform degree of security throughout the whole IT infrastructure.

3) Lack of cyber security skills - Many South African companies struggle to recruit and retain qualified cyber security specialists. SASE systems, which automate regular security procedures, can aid in closing this skills gap.

Beyond the hype: Constructing a safe future

SASE is more than just a catchy acronym; it signifies a major change in how companies view network security. Through a clear understanding of SASE and its possible advantages, South African firms can make well-informed decisions on the protection of their digital assets and future.

SEACOM aims to lead the way in providing South African companies with cutting-edge cyber security solutions. We provide a full range of services to assist you in navigating the process because we recognise how difficult it can be for some enterprises to deploy SASE.

Working with you, our group of cyber security professionals can evaluate your security requirements. We'll carry out a comprehensive examination of your present security posture and pinpoint the areas in which SASE can provide the most advantages.

We will create a unique SASE solution tailored to your requirements. SASE cannot be approached in a one-size-fits-all manner. We'll design a solution that precisely fits your particular set of business needs.

SEACOM will also oversee your SASE environment. Our staff will offer continuous assistance to make sure your SASE solution is running smoothly and that your network is safe. You can obtain the knowledge and resources required to put in place a strong SASE solution that will enable your company to prosper in the digital era by collaborating with SEACOM. To find out how SASE can assist your company in achieving its security objectives, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.

SEACOM is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.

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