What is SASE – And Why Does Your Network Need It?

In today’s fast-moving digital world, the traditional network perimeter is no longer fit for purpose. With employees working remotely, applications moving to the cloud, and cyber threats evolving faster than ever, organisations need a new approach to networking and security. Enter SASE – a buzzword you may have heard, but one that’s fast becoming essential.

But what exactly is SASE (pronounced “sassy”), and why should UK businesses be paying attention?

What is SASE?

SASE stands for Secure Access Service Edge. It’s a framework first coined by Gartner in 2019, and it represents a convergence of networking and security into a single, cloud-delivered service model.

In simpler terms:
SASE brings together tools like SD-WAN, firewalls, secure web gateways, CASB (Cloud Access Security Broker), and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) – and delivers them as one integrated solution, usually from the cloud.

This means that instead of bolting on multiple different products from different vendors, businesses can get end-to-end network security that’s agile, scalable, and designed for the cloud-first, hybrid-work world we live in.

Why Does Your Network Need SASE?

1. The Perimeter Has Left the Building

Gone are the days when everyone worked from the office and all your applications lived in your data centre. With staff working from home, in co-working spaces, or on the move, and with critical apps hosted in AWS, Azure or Microsoft 365 – your network perimeter is now everywhere.

SASE provides secure access to users wherever they are, without routing everything back through a central hub. This means better performance and lower latency, especially for cloud apps.

2. Stronger Security, Built-In

Cyber threats in the UK – from phishing and ransomware to data breaches – are on the rise. SASE delivers Zero Trust by default, which means users only get access to what they need, when they need it, and nothing more.

Plus, with centralised visibility and control, your IT team can spot threats quickly and respond in real time – no matter where your users or data are located.

3. Simplified IT Operations

Managing separate point solutions for firewalls, VPNs, and WANs is time-consuming and expensive. SASE simplifies this by combining networking and security into a single platform, often from a single vendor.

This means fewer support tickets, less vendor management, and a more streamlined IT environment – ideal for overstretched teams.

4. Future-Proofing Your Infrastructure

As more businesses in the UK embrace hybrid working and cloud-first strategies, traditional MPLS networks and legacy VPNs are struggling to keep up.

SASE is designed for agility. Whether you’re onboarding a new remote team, rolling out a cloud migration, or opening a branch office, SASE can scale quickly and securely – without weeks of network reconfiguration.

Is SASE Right for Your Organisation?

If your business:

• Has remote or hybrid workers

• Uses cloud-based applications

• Wants to simplify network security

• Needs to improve user experience

• Is concerned about cyber threats

…then yes, SASE is worth a serious look.

Whether you’re a mid-sized firm looking to modernise or a large enterprise seeking operational efficiency, SASE offers a way to keep your people connected, your data protected, and your IT strategy aligned with the future.

Final Thoughts

SASE isn’t just another tech acronym – it’s a shift in how we think about networking and security in a cloud-first world. For UK businesses navigating digital transformation, SASE provides the flexibility, scalability, and protection that today’s networks demand.

If you’re still relying on legacy VPNs and patchwork security tools, now might be the time to rethink your strategy.

Your network isn’t what it used to be – and your security shouldn’t be either.