As the prominence of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) grows, so does the need for effective deployment strategies. While SASE promises enhanced network efficiency and security, realising its full potential requires avoiding common pitfalls. This article explores typical SASE deployment mistakes, their impact on businesses, best practices for avoidance, and provides a handy SASE deployment checklist.
Common SASE Deployment Mistakes
- Insufficient Planning: A common mistake is rushing the SASE deployment without sufficient planning. Proper assessment of your current network status, defining objectives, and developing a phased implementation timeline are crucial.
- Choosing the Wrong Provider: All SASE providers are not the same. Selecting a provider without considering their coverage, security services, and support can be detrimental.
- Lack of Skill Set: Implementing SASE requires a particular skill set. An inadequately trained IT team can result in ineffective deployment.
- Ignoring Regular Evaluation: SASE isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it solution. Failing to regularly monitor and evaluate your SASE system can result in decreased performance and security over time.
The Impact of SASE Deployment Mistakes on Businesses
Falling into these pitfalls can have several consequences:
- Inadequate Network Performance: Mistakes like poor planning and selecting the wrong provider can lead to sub-optimal network performance, affecting business operations.
- Compromised Security: Ignoring regular evaluations or having a poorly trained IT team can expose your network to security risks.
Increased Costs: Inefficient SASE deployment can lead to increased operational costs due to constant troubleshooting and potential security breaches.
Best Practices to Avoid SASE Pitfalls
Avoid these common mistakes with the following best practices:
- Detailed Planning: Carry out a thorough assessment of your current network infrastructure, define clear objectives, and develop a phased SASE deployment plan.
- Provider Evaluation: Thoroughly evaluate potential SASE providers. Consider their coverage, security offerings, support, and how well they align with your business needs.
- Train Your Team: Ensure your IT team has the necessary skills for successful SASE deployment. This may involve training, hiring new talent, or seeking help from external experts.
Regular Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish regular monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure your SASE system continues to deliver optimal performance and security.
SASE Deployment Checklist
To help guide your SASE deployment, consider this checklist:
- Assess current network: Understand your existing network and security setup.
- Define objectives: What are your goals for SASE deployment?
- Evaluate and choose a provider: Research and choose a suitable SASE provider.
- Develop an implementation plan: Create a detailed and phased SASE deployment plan.
- Train your IT team: Ensure your team has the necessary skills.
- Implement and test: Implement the SASE system and thoroughly test it.
- Monitor and evaluate: Set up regular evaluations of the SASE system’s performance and security.
The promise of SASE — enhanced network efficiency and security — is too significant to be derailed by avoidable mistakes. By understanding common SASE deployment pitfalls, their potential impact, and how to steer clear of them, network architects can lead their organisations towards successful SASE deployment. Use this guide as your roadmap to navigate the complexities of SASE and make your journey a successful one.