What is SSE Architecture?

Secure Service Edge (SSE) architecture is the security foundation of the broader Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) framework. 

It integrates advanced security tools like Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Firewall as a Service (FWaaS) into one platform, ensuring users have secure access to applications and resources, no matter where they are.

Why is SSE Architecture Important?

With the rise of hybrid work and cloud-based applications, organizations now have data, resources, and employees scattered across the globe. 

This makes protecting the corporate network more challenging than ever.

That’s where SSE steps in!

SSE gives organizations a clear, high-level view of everything happening on their network and the tools to quickly spot and respond to threats. It’s a full suite of security services—designed to integrate with SASE—that protects your resources and provides secure connections for employees, partners, and contractors alike.

Benefits of SSE Architecture

Here are the benefits of SSE architecture:

• Full Threat Protection: SSE tackles advanced threats on all fronts, from web browsing to application usage, through a single, unified platform.
• Scalability: Whether your team is growing, shrinking, or working across the globe, cloud-based SSE solutions adapt effortlessly to fit your needs.
• Simplified Management: By combining tools like secure web gateways and zero trust network access, SSE makes managing your security stack easier and more efficient.
• Better User Experience: SSE reduces latency and delivers secure, seamless access to applications without compromising performance.
• Compliance Made Easy: SSE enforces consistent security policies across hybrid networks and distributed workforces, helping you stay compliant with industry regulations.

Key Features of SSE Architecture

Here are the key features of SSE architecture:

Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB)

A Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) acts as a gatekeeper between users and cloud services, protecting sensitive data using encryption, tokenization, and other security measures. 

It gives organizations visibility and control over how cloud and SaaS apps are used, helping:

• Enforce data security policies
• Detect suspicious behavior

Secure Web Gateway (SWG)

Secure Web Gateways (SWGs) shield organizations from threats like malware, phishing, and data leaks by filtering and inspecting web traffic in real time. They can:

• Block malicious websites
• Scan downloads for threats
• Prevent data leaks
• Detect and stop attacks
• Monitor user activity to spot risky behavior

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)

Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) works on the principle that no user is trusted by default. 

It continuously enforces strict protocols to ensure that users are fully verified and authorized, and logs their network activity. Unlike VPNs, ZTNA follows the principle of least privilege—only letting users access the resources they need—which reduces the chance that attackers can move laterally within the network. 

Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS)

Firewall-as-a-Service (FWaaS) brings firewall protection to the cloud, offering a more flexible and scalable solution than traditional firewalls. It allows you to enforce security policies across your hybrid and cloud-based infrastructures without relying on bulky, expensive on-premises hardware. 

How Is SSE Architecture Deployed?

Here are three scenarios of SSE architecture deployment:

• Gradual Rollout: Begin by integrating one SSE tool at a time. This way, you can minimize business disruption and allow your teams to adopt the new tools in stages. You could also start with a small SSE pilot before scaling the solution across the whole business. 
• Big Bang Implementation: For organizations that need a quick rollout—and have the resources—it’s possible to deploy all your SSE services in one go. This requires strong change management processes to make sure employees are trained and policies are applied correctly.
• Hybrid Deployment: If your organization relies on legacy systems that can’t be phased out immediately, it might be a good idea to combine on-premises and cloud-based security solutions for a smoother transition to a full cloud-based SSE architecture.

5 Best Practices for Implementing SSE Architecture

Here are the best practices for SSE architecture implementation:

1. Start with a Security Assessment: Identify your organization’s security gaps and high-risk areas. This will help you prioritize which SSE tools to deploy first.
2. Choose the Right Vendor: Choose a reputable SASE vendor that offers a complete set of security services, including SWG, ZTNA, and CASB, and integrates with your current security stack.
3. Define Policies Early: Make sure security policies align with your organization’s compliance requirements and goals.
4. Monitor and Optimize: Use analytics tools within the SSE platform to log activities and track performance to identify areas for improvement.
5. Train Your Teams: Both IT and end-users need to understand how the new security framework works. Regular training ensures a smooth adoption process.

What to Look for When Choosing an SSE Vendor

Focusing on a few key areas can make the process of choosing the right vendor easier. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Product Features

Make sure the vendor offers a complete suite of services, including SWG, ZTNA, CASB, and FWaaS. 

Their solution should handle advanced threats effectively, provide centralized visibility, and be intuitive for both admins and users—with plenty of customization options.

Pricing and Licensing

Look for a pricing structure that’s not only cost-effective but also scales with your business. Be clear on what’s included—no one likes surprises when it comes to hidden fees or extra charges.

Vendor Reputation

Check their track record. A vendor with a solid history of delivering security solutions and responsive customer support is worth its weight in gold. 

Compliance

Your vendor should follow best practices like strong encryption and access controls while regularly conducting security audits. They should also align with industry standards, such as:

• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
• General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
• PCI DSS

…depending on your needs. 

Scalability

Choose a vendor with a global network to ensure low latency and reliable performance. The solution should be able to keep pace as your business and data needs grow.

Maximize Security with Check Point’s SASE

Protecting your network from evolving threats requires a powerful solution. 

Check Point’s SASE combines robust SSE architecture with zero-trust principles, advanced threat prevention, and AI-powered security to safeguard your data and resources. We deliver fast, secure access to both cloud and on-prem systems and makes it easy to secure your most important assets.

Book a free demo today.