Zscaler Introduces SD-WAN Solution, Sets Sights on Expanding SASE Market

Zscaler has launched its SD-WAN solution, entering the competitive Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) market as a leader in Security Services Edge (SSE). The company, known for its multi-vendor SASE approach, introduces a Zero Trust SD-WAN solution, featuring plug-and-play appliances for secure connectivity in branch offices, factories, and data centers. The offering eliminates reliance on ineffective firewalls and VPNs and integrates with Zscaler’s Zero Trust Exchange, providing Cloud Access Security Broker, Data Loss Protection (DLP), Secure Web Gateways (SWG), and zero-trust capabilities. Zscaler aims to enhance the user experience for hybrid work by delivering seamless and secure access without cumbersome VPNs. The single-vendor SASE market, witnessing substantial growth, includes notable players like HPE Aruba, Aryaka, Cato Networks, Check Point, Cisco, Forcepoint, Fortinet, Juniper Networks, Palo Alto Networks, Netskope, Versa Networks, and VMware. Zscaler’s unique single-vendor SASE product with a multivendor SD-WAN component sets it apart, with remarkable growth rates highlighted by industry analysts. Despite its exclusion from Gartner’s Single-Vendor SASE Magic Quadrant, Zscaler emphasizes its multivendor SASE and SSE strategy, challenging traditional paradigms. However, as Zscaler delves into networking services, it faces a delicate balance, transitioning from collaboration with SD-WAN vendors to potential competition. The company addresses concerns about networking capabilities, aiming to simplify traffic on-ramping into its cloud.