Four reasons to secure branch locations with EdgeConnect SD-WAN and SWG

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In today's interconnected world, branch offices are vital to many organizations' operations. However, they face increasing cybersecurity challenges due to the proliferation of cloud-based applications, IoT devices, and remote work. Traditional security models, focused on central corporate networks, are no longer sufficient.

Here are four compelling reasons to secure branch locations with a secure SD-WAN, such as EdgeConnect SD-WAN and HPE Aruba Networking Secure Web Gateway (SWG).

1. Zero trust security and threat defense

EdgeConnect SD-WAN, augmented with HPE Aruba Networking SWG, offers a comprehensive Zero Trust security framework. This approach ensures that every user and device on the branch network, including unmanaged devices such as IoT, are fully protected against web-based threats. IoT devices, which often access the internet for updates, telemetry, or AI model training, are particularly prone to web-based threats. Unlike standalone SWG solutions, which often fall short in protecting unmanaged devices, this integrated approach provides consistent security coverage, blocking access to malicious websites and protecting against malware. The inclusion of a next-generation firewall within EdgeConnect SD-WAN enhances this defense by offering advanced cybersecurity features, zero trust segmentation and policy enforcement based on application, user identity, and context. This robust threat defense mechanism significantly reduces the risk of cyberattacks, including ransomware and phishing, ensuring that branch locations are well-protected against evolving threats.

2. Replace legacy branch firewalls with secure SD-WAN

Legacy firewalls at branch locations are often difficult to manage and require local expertise, making consistent security policy enforcement across distributed sites challenging. EdgeConnect SD-WAN simplifies this by centralizing security management and replacing outdated branch firewalls. This reduces the hardware footprint and operational complexity, enabling organizations to maintain a unified and consistent security posture across all branch locations. Moreover, it eliminates the need for local technical support, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing operational efficiency.

Replace branch firewalls and consolidate branch equipment with HPE Aruba EdgeConnect SD-WAN

3. Deliver advanced security features such as IDS/IPS and DDoS defense

The integration of advanced features like role-based segmentation, Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS), and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) defense further strengthens branch security. Role-based segmentation isolates IoT traffic from mission-critical applications, ensuring that potential vulnerabilities in IoT devices do not compromise the security of essential business operations. IDS/IPS continuously monitors network traffic for suspicious patterns, automatically blocking potential threats, while DDoS defense mechanisms protect against various types of attacks, mitigating their impact on network performance and availability.

4. Build a solid foundation for SASE

EdgeConnect SD-WAN and SWG form a robust foundation for a Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) architecture, which can be seamlessly expanded to include Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) capabilities. ZTNA enforces strict access controls, granting users access only to specific applications and resources based on their identity and context, thus minimizing the attack surface. CASB enhances security for SaaS applications by providing visibility, control over sensitive data, and enforcing security policies, including data loss prevention (DLP). This unified approach ensures comprehensive protection and a smooth transition to a holistic SASE architecture.

Conclusion

Securing branch locations is vital in the face of rising cyber threats. EdgeConnect SD-WAN augmented with HPE Aruba Networking SWG provides a robust Zero Trust security framework, safeguarding all users and devices, including unmanaged IoT devices, from web-based threats. This solution addresses the shortcomings of traditional security models, offering advanced features like next-generation firewall, role-based segmentation, IDS/IPS, and DDoS protection. By replacing legacy firewalls with a secure SD-WAN, organizations simplify security management and ensure consistent policy enforcement. This setup also prepares them for a smooth transition to a SASE architecture, integrating ZTNA and CASB, in addition to SWG. Adopting these technologies is a strategic step towards enhanced security, streamlined operations, and future-ready network architecture.

To learn more, please download our At-a-glance document to elevate branch security with secure SD-WAN and SWG, establishing the foundation for SASE.

Other resources:

• HPE Aruba Networking SD-WAN webpage
• Secure SD-WAN glossary
• Architecting a secure business-driven SD-WAN