Transforming Enterprise Security with 5G-Enhanced SASE and Mobile-First Connectivity
Secure and flexible connectivity has become essential as enterprises expand network boundaries to accommodate remote workforces, dispersed offices, and increasing IoT deployments. The adoption of 5G and LTE technologies has fueled the rapid expansion of cellular networks, allowing businesses to reach remote or hard-to-access locations. However, with these new possibilities come additional cyber risks, as each connected endpoint adds to the organization’s attack surface.
Ericsson’s NetCloud Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) addresses these challenges head-on, providing a cellular-driven, zero-trust solution that secures dynamic environments where locations constantly shift, devices multiplying, and employees working from anywhere.
Key technologies like ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) and network slicing make 5G-enabled SASE an invaluable asset for enterprises prioritizing secure connectivity. Network slicing, for instance, allows mobile network operators (MNOs) to create dedicated, isolated connectivity channels tailored to specific enterprise needs, enhancing both the quality of service and security for critical applications such as financial transactions, healthcare data exchanges, and remote diagnostics.
The SASE Advantage for Mobile-First Enterprises
SASE offers a centralized solution for mobile-first enterprises that reduces the complexity of managing separate security systems and network tools. Unlike traditional security, which relies on physical perimeter defenses, SASE operates on a “perimeterless” basis, verifying each access request regardless of location or device. This zero-trust approach has become essential in a landscape where employees access corporate data from anywhere, often through cloud-based services. SASE integrates networking and security from the outset, enabling consistent protection and simplifying network management for IT teams.
Why Over-the-Top SASE Solutions Often Fall Short
Unlike traditional OTT SASE solutions that rely on device-installed agents, NetCloud SASE uses SIM-based identities, offering secure, agent-free connectivity for both managed and unmanaged devices.
Traditional over-the-top (OTT) SASE solutions generally rely on device-installed agents to direct traffic, which can impact user experience and complicate implementation - especially for IoT devices that can’t support agent installation. NetCloud SASE offers a distinct advantage by enabling MNOs to bypass these agents through SIM-based identities. This method ensures secure, agent-free connectivity for managed and unmanaged devices, resulting in smoother, more secure access that adapts to various enterprise use cases.
How Mobile Network Operators Elevate SASE
MNOs are uniquely positioned to enhance SASE offerings by utilizing their core network assets:
SIM-Based Authentication: By utilizing SIM credentials, MNOs can authenticate and authorize access based on secure SIM identities, reducing reliance on vulnerable usernames and passwords.
Traffic Steering to Edge SASE Points: MNOs can direct enterprise traffic to local SASE points of presence, ensuring optimal Quality of Service (QoS) and reducing latency.
Enhanced Isolation with Network Slicing: Network slicing provides enterprises with dedicated connectivity channels, isolating their traffic and enhancing security.
The Role of 5G in SASE-Powered Enterprise Transformation
5G-SASE integration not only provides secure connectivity but also empowers enterprises with enhanced mobility, allowing businesses to:
Quickly Open New Locations: With 5G SASE, organizations can easily establish secure connectivity for temporary sites, kiosks, or pop-up stores.
Securely Manage IoT Devices: For companies with extensive IoT deployments, 5G SASE ensures that each connected device operates within a secure framework.
Enhance Mobile Workforce Capabilities: Fleet vehicles, remote offices, and on-the-go employees benefit from seamless and secure access to corporate resources.
Unlocking New Business Agility and Security with Ericsson’s NetCloud SASE
The shift towards a mobile, decentralized workforce demands security solutions capable of keeping up with businesses' dynamic needs. Ericsson’s NetCloud SASE, designed for 5G environments, provides a seamless, zero-trust solution for organizations looking to secure their expanding network perimeters. NetCloud SASE empowers enterprises to confidently extend their reach, manage a growing array of devices, and protect critical data assets by integrating network and security functions.
Whether connecting employees, securing IoT devices, or supporting mobile operations, Ericsson Enterprise Wireless is leading the way in providing agile, adaptable, and secure connectivity solutions for a modern, perimeterless world. NetCloud SASE ensures that enterprise security isn’t just an add-on but a foundational element, ready to support companies wherever their operations take them.
NetCloud SASE is designed to keep pace with 5G’s evolution, leveraging features like network slicing to guarantee high bandwidth for priority applications. This adaptability ensures enterprises can scale as they adopt new connectivity options.
Additionally, while many SASE solutions unify management across various products, NetCloud SASE centralizes management into one policy engine and platform, making it easier to deploy, monitor, and maintain.
NetCloud SASE also employs air-gap technology, safeguarding corporate applications from unmanaged devices without needing agents or special browsers. This reduces complexity and enhances device security.
Benefits of NetCloud SASE
By seamlessly integrating network and security functions, NetCloud SASE empowers enterprises with multiple advantages that address modern connectivity challenges.
Rapid Zero Trust Deployment
Ericsson’s NetCloud SASE enables enterprises to establish secure, zero-trust networks within minutes. With an integrated architecture, organizations can avoid complex deployments that would typically take days or weeks.
Mission-Critical Data Protection
NetCloud SASE ensures high-resiliency, zero-loss WANs for mission-critical applications. This is vital for healthcare, finance, and government sectors, where uninterrupted service and data protection are paramount.
Unified Management with Cloud Delivery
NetCloud SASE integrates security and networking functions into one cloud-delivered platform, simplifying network management and reducing the need for extensive hardware.
Protection Against Zero-Day Threats
Leveraging zero-trust principles, NetCloud SASE protects corporate data, applications, and intellectual property from malware, zero-day exploits, and sophisticated phishing attacks, even in GenAI environments.
Core Components of NetCloud SASE
Zero Trust Internet Access
Zero Trust Internet Access isolates users and devices from malicious online activities through advanced Remote Browser Isolation (RBI), which prevents phishing and malware attacks. Key features include:
Sophisticated Malware Blocking: Beyond traditional detection methods, it effectively blocks zero-day exploits.
Phishing Attack Prevention: The system neutralizes potential threats even if users accidentally click on malicious links.
SaaS Usage Control: This feature provides an added layer of control to prevent data leakage for regulated industries.
Zero Trust SD-WAN
Optimized for cellular networks, NetCloud SASE’s SD-WAN enhances the resiliency and performance of applications, which is essential for companies that rely on cloud-based solutions or have hybrid workforces. This SD-WAN capability allows businesses to:
Improve Application Performance: With intelligent bonding of WAN connections, applications function seamlessly across multiple networks.
Enable Multi-Cloud Connections: Organizations can connect with multiple cloud providers, ensuring agility and flexibility in their cloud infrastructure.
Zero Trust Private Access
Another unique feature of NetCloud SASE is securely connecting IoT devices and unmanaged devices. With private access, organizations can authenticate and connect devices such as BYOD, contractor devices, and IoT with a zero-trust model, safeguarding applications from vulnerabilities.
Cloud and Customer-Hosted Options
Ericsson Enterprise Wireless offers versatile deployment models that cater to varying enterprise needs:
Cloud-Delivered
Ideal for cloud-first companies, this model utilizes Ericsson’s global cloud infrastructure to deliver SD-WAN, private access, and internet access as a service through NetCloud Manager.
Customer-Hosted
NetCloud Exchange (NCX) Service Gateway enables on-site deployment for organizations that prefer on-premises solutions, allowing companies to manage SASE functionalities directly within their data centers or virtual private clouds.
Embracing the Future with Ericsson Enterprise Wireless and NetCloud SASE
The shift towards a mobile-first, decentralized work environment demands security solutions that keep up. Ericsson’s NetCloud SASE, designed for 5G environments, offers a holistic, zero-trust approach that meets the needs of modern enterprises. NetCloud SASE enables businesses to confidently expand their reach by combining network and security functions while maintaining robust protection against today’s most pressing cyber threats.
With Ericsson’s NetCloud SASE, organizations can face the challenges of a mobile-first, decentralized world with confidence, knowing their networks are equipped with the latest security and connectivity innovations.
About MCA and Our CNS Team
MCA is one of the largest and most trusted integrators in the United States, offering world-class voice, data, and security solutions that enhance the quality, safety, and productivity of customers, operations, and lives. More than 65,000 customers trust MCA to provide carefully researched solutions for a safe, secure, and more efficient workplace.
Our Cellular Networking Solutions (CNS) team (formerly known as USAT) is made up of certified experts in designing and deploying fixed and mobile wireless data connectivity solutions for public and private enterprises nationwide - complete with implementation, training, proof of concept (POC), system auditing, and on-site RF surveying services with optional engineering maintenance contracts.
Our extensive Ericsson catalog of world-class routers, gateways, and software designed for remote monitoring and management in even the harshest environments allows us to deliver a full suite of reliable technologies capped with a service-first approach.
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