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October 2023

by David Nelson
Product Lead, Security and Connectivity

We’re all very familiar with this rapidly evolving landscape and the challenges in managing networks and security infrastructure. Of course, cloud adoption, remote work, and digital transformation all demand a comprehensive and efficient security solution, and this is more pressing than ever.

Many of the organisations we speak to on a regular basis are adopting a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture. And that makes perfect sense.

However, there is still some debate as to the value of a single vendor approach to SASE. So, I wanted to share some thoughtson this topic.

What is SASE and Why Does It Matter

First off, let’s get clear on what a SASE approach is and why it matters. In a nutshell, it’s about consolidating and integrating various security and networking functions into a unified, cloud-based platform.

This consolidation is done with the goal of providing seamless and secure access to applications and resources regardless of where your user, or their data and applications might be located. All this, while simplifying the management and enhancing your overall security posture.

Sounds straightforward enough, right? And to some degree there is a simplicity about this approach that makes it an easy decision for many. However, there are some hidden pitfalls you want to avoid, so experience counts, especially when it comes to SASE integration challenges!

This leads us to the question on how best to achieve a SASE architecture.

If you listen to the SASE vendors, the right choice is a single vendor approach.

The Allure of a Single Vendor Solution

The complexity of managing multiple vendors for different components of a SASE solution can be a headache.

We are talking point solutions with integration challenges, increased costs, and potential security gaps. So, this is really where the concept of a single vendor SASE solution shines.

We’ve been working closely with Cisco for some time now and through their acquisitions, they have made significant progress with integration over the past year alone.

Enhanced Security

There is an argument that no matter whether you adopt best in class point solutions or a single vendor approach, your security posture is improved with a SASE architecture. However, a single vendor approach does have its advantages for enhanced security operations.

Key to enhanced security is a unified security framework that ensures consistent policies and protections across the entire network. That translates into a more efficient way to manage your security stack, so you can expect quicker responses to emerging threats and vulnerabilities, as well as a reduced risk of misconfigurations that could lead to breaches.

Simplified Support and Troubleshooting

Simplified support and troubleshooting can lead to faster issue resolution, reduced downtime, and improved overall network reliability.

This is one of those areas you might not have considered in detail just yet. When you encounter issues or need support, dealing with a single vendor significantly simplifies the process. Instead of navigating multiple support teams from different vendors, your team, or your MSP, can collaborate with a single point of contact for all your SASE needs.

As you would expect, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is having a significant impact on shaping advances in the identification, analysis and even resolution of problems before they can disrupt your operations.

When considering troubleshooting, I would recommend paying particular attention to the progress vendors are making in end-to end observability. This is a rapidly evolving area and there are varying degrees of visibility. If you are in any doubt here, get in touch and we can walk through some of the key challenges.

Cost Efficiency

As you know, managing multiple vendors involves juggling different pricing models, licenses, and contracts, which can quickly become overwhelming and costly.

Opting for a single vendor approach such as Cisco, can significantly streamlines your procurement process.

This can lead to cost savings through volume discounts, simplified licensing structures, and reduced administrative overhead.

Maintel’s expertise gives us the guidance we need to really achieve our goals, and it’s an easy conversation as Genesys has the capability to do whatever we want. It’s a huge tool and we’re only just scratching the surface.

Kate Birtles

Customer Service Director,
Biffa PLC

Consistent User Experience

We’re all looking to simplify operations and a seamless user experience is essential, especially in today’s distributed work environments.

Adopting a single vendor should ensure that your users, whether they’re in the office or working remotely, receive consistent and reliable access to the applications and resources they need.

The outcome you should expect here, is increased productivity and overall user satisfaction.

Scalability and Future-Readiness

As your business grows and evolves, your IT infrastructure needs to keep pace.

A single vendor SASE can offer scalability without the headache of managing disparate components from various vendors.

This scalability extends to both infrastructure expansion and the adoption of new security features, ensuring your organisation remains prepared for future challenges.

Improved Visibility and Control

For successful threat detection and response, you must have insight into your network traffic and a robust security posture.

Consolidated reporting and analytics from a single vendor SASE solution can provide a comprehensive view of your network’s performance and potential security concerns.

This access should enable your team to make informed decisions and rapidly minimise risk.