Unlocking Secure Service Edge (SSE) Success: Insights from IDC Report with Tata Communications

In the era of digital transformation, businesses navigate a landscape intricate with opportunities and challenges. This journey, based on IDC’s research, highlights how embracing emerging technologies propels organisations toward innovation and competitiveness. Companies leverage flexible work models and high-performance applications, unlocking new possibilities. 48% of organizations reported a notable increase in productivity due to remote and hybrid work. Addressing cybersecurity challenges with Secure Service Edge (SSE) becomes imperative as ransomware damages increased 144% in 2022 to $354,000 per business compared with $145,000 in North America in 2021. Artificial Intelligence (AI) further drives this evolution, paving the way for cutting-edge use cases that redefine the business landscape. Delve into strategies for enhancing cybersecurity posture with SSE solutions and navigating the adoption journey effectively.

"48% of organizations reported notable increase in productivity due to remote and hybrid work"

Challenges introduced by digital transformation:

However, alongside the transformative benefits, digital evolution has ushered in a new era of cybersecurity challenges. Traditional perimeter-based defences are no longer sufficient in the face of complex multi-cloud and hybrid cloud environments. Securing corporate data, now scattered across various third-party cloud environments, poses a significant challenge, exacerbating the lack of visibility and control for IT departments.

Moreover, the proliferation of devices accessing corporate resources, coupled with a shortage of cybersecurity skills, further compounds these challenges, leaving organisations vulnerable to cyber threats amidst economic uncertainty.

"Ransomware damages increased 144% in 2022 to $354,000 per business compared with$145,000 in North America in 2021"

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Addressing cybersecurity challenges with Secure Service Edge (SSE)

Key Elements of SSE: SSE integrates critical network security technologies into a unified, cloud-delivered service. How do you envision SSE enhancing your organisation's cybersecurity posture?

• Integrates critical network security technologies into a unified, cloud-delivered security service.
• Combines functions such as Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), firewall as a service, secure web gateway (SWG), and data leakage prevention (DLP).
• Offers remote browser isolation for enhanced security.

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Benefits of SSE adoption:

Consolidation of security technologies into a single solution.

• Reduction in latency and increased performance by performing multiple security functions at the edge.
• Simplified management with centralised control and reporting.
• Opportunity to retire legacy security appliances and streamline workflows. 28% are prioritizing investments in more efficient networking and access technologies such as SSE

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"28% are prioritising investments in more efficient networking and access technologies such as SSE"

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Navigating the SSE adoption journey

Pre-Implementation phase:

Before embarking on the SSE adoption journey, organisations must conduct thorough assessments of their infrastructure and security architecture. This involves identifying key network requirements, pain points, and technical needs, laying the foundation for a successful implementation. Furthermore, defining clear security requirements and selecting a reliable SSE provider are critical steps in this phase, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and goals.

Implementation phase:

During the implementation phase, meticulous planning and configuration are paramount. Organisations must plan and execute the deployment of SSE solutions, configuring network infrastructure and access controls to align with security best practices. Integrating SSE with existing identity and security systems further enhances its efficacy, providing organisations with comprehensive threat visibility and mitigation capabilities.

Pilot and migration testing:

Deploying SSE solutions in a phased approach allows organisations to mitigate risks and optimise outcomes. By starting with focused pilot projects, organisations can validate SSE functionalities and address any challenges before scaling up deployment. Extending SSE to advanced use cases and environments such as IoT/OT requires careful planning and execution, ensuring seamless integration and minimal disruption to existing operations.

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Post-deployment and future planning:

Following deployment, organisations must provide ongoing support and training to ensure the continued effectiveness of SSE solutions. Hypercare support and regular training sessions empower teams to leverage SSE capabilities effectively, enhancing overall security posture. Additionally, monitoring and maintaining the SSE platform is essential to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities or performance issues. Going forward, organisations must plan for scalability, fostering a security-aware culture to mitigate risks effectively.

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Recommendations for successful SSE deployment

Successful SSE deployment hinges on several key recommendations. Identifying priority areas for transformation and conducting comprehensive risk assessments are foundational steps, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives and risk appetite. Performance optimisation and regular review of SSE platforms are essential to maintaining efficacy and resilience against evolving threats. Choosing a reliable security provider offering comprehensive managed SSE services further enhances the likelihood of project success, providing organisations with the expertise and support needed to navigate complex cybersecurity landscapes effectively.

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Conclusion: Seizing the opportunity with SSE

In conclusion, Secure Service Edge (SSE) solutions offer a compelling option for organisations seeking to modernise their cybersecurity posture in the face of evolving threats. By embracing SSE, organisations can consolidate security technologies, streamline operations, and enhance resilience against cyber threats. Tata Communications, with its extensive expertise and comprehensive SSE offerings, is well-positioned to address the cybersecurity challenges of the digital era, providing organisations with the tools and support needed to succeed in today's dynamic business landscape.

Read the full IDC report here. Tata Communications: A leader in SSE solutions

Tata Communications stands out as a premier provider of SSE solutions, offering a comprehensive portfolio of cybersecurity services tailored to the needs of modern enterprises. Leveraging its global presence and extensive network infrastructure, Tata Communications delivers advanced threat protection and seamless connectivity, empowering organisations to navigate the complexities of digital transformation securely. With its network-agnostic SSE solution and holistic threat management capabilities, Tata Communications enables organisations to achieve robust security postures while simplifying management and enhancing user experience. Explore Tata Communications SSE capabilities for your cybersecurity journey.

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