Accelerating SASE Adoption and Overcoming Execution Barriers
A recent survey conducted by Open Systems highlights a significant gap between ambition and execution in the realm of Zero Trust and SASE strategies among enterprises. As organizations strive to progress in these areas, the findings reveal that while advancement is evident, significant challenges impede operationalization.
Hybrid Environments as the New Norm
The report from the 2026 SASE & Zero Trust Survey, involving input from over 500 IT and security leaders, indicates a shift toward hybrid environments being the definitive operating model. Enterprises are now tasked with securing a broad spectrum of elements: from remote workers and SaaS applications to data centers, multi-cloud workloads, branch offices, and third-party access points. A notable concern for nearly 68% of participants is the lack of comprehensive visibility, which stands as the most pressing operational challenge. This concern is compounded by issues related to user experience, performance discrepancies, and an uptick in ticket volumes.
Stagnation in Zero Trust Progress
Adoption of Zero Trust principles is certainly in progress. Mercyfully, only a small fraction of organizations (about 14%) continue to depend solely on old WAN and VPN frameworks. Most enterprises have made strides in implementing ZTNA and application-level access tools. However, moving forward appears to stall in more advanced phases. A mere 9% of organizations report having a fully integrated Zero Trust architecture; thus, the majority remain trapped in what can be described as a 'middle state' regarding their approaches.
Challenges in Execution
Notably, the greatest hindrance is not the strategic direction but the execution capabilities. Almost 50% of surveyed organizations expressed difficulty in simultaneously managing VPN and ZTNA solutions. This has led to redundant policies, fragmented tools, and increased operational demands. Skills shortages, coupled with integration issues, further degrade the consistency of managing modern architectures. Consequently, it is evident that the execution capacity has emerged as the bottleneck in the path to streamlined operations.
According to Stefan Keller, Chief Product Officer at Open Systems, the transition toward SASE and Zero Trust is not a point of contention; the debate on strategic direction has been resolved. The primary slowdown arises from the practical day-to-day execution. The complexities of hybrid infrastructures, legacy systems, and limited internal resources are converging, causing notable friction.
Rethinking SASE Delivery Models
In light of these challenges, organizations are reevaluating how SASE is implemented. A substantial 78% of respondents from the US and 85% from the UK show a preference for either co-managed or fully managed SASE models. This approach merges internal oversight with round-the-clock operational expertise. Furthermore, there is a pragmatic emphasis on automation; organizations prioritize advancements in AI for critical functions like monitoring, anomaly detection, incident response, and ticket automation, all aimed at diminishing operational disruptions rather than venturing into experimental territories.
The Evolution of SASE as an Operating Model
Stefan Keller further emphasizes that SASE has transitioned from a mere product rollout to a comprehensive operating model. Organizations are now seeking solutions that provide visibility-first platforms and shared responsibilities. They require partners who can collaborate effectively as their environments grow in complexity.
Conclusions Drawn from the Findings
The insights garnered from this survey send a strong message: enterprises are ready for Zero Trust; they are prepared for SASE. Now, the focus should shift towards developing operational models that resonate with the realities of hybrid and cloud-focused landscapes.
About Open Systems
Open Systems stands as a global leader in the realm of co-managed SASE and Zero Trust operating frameworks. They offer aid to enterprises grappling with the complexities of hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Founded in the early '90s and stationed in Switzerland, Open Systems achieves more than USD 100 million in annual revenue and supports a broad spectrum of customers with a workforce of over 60,000 across 180 countries.
By merging cloud-native networking with proactive, co-managed 24x7 operations, Open Systems addresses the execution gap that many organizations encounter when they undertake the deployment of progressive architectures. As a European alternative to security providers based in the US and Israel, the company emphasizes a robust alignment with regulations, operational transparency, and shared responsibilities. This enables secure, reliable, and scalable network and security operations across increasingly dispersed IT frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SASE?
SASE stands for Secure Access Service Edge, a framework that combines network security functions and wide area networking capabilities into a single cloud-based service model.
What is Zero Trust?
Zero Trust is a security model that requires strict identity verification for every person and device trying to access resources on a network, regardless of whether they are inside or outside the perimeter.
Why are organizations struggling with executing SASE?
The main struggles stem from operational complexities, legacy systems, skills shortages, and integration challenges which hinder effective management of modern IT architectures.
What benefits does a co-managed SASE model offer?
Co-managed SASE models allow organizations to blend internal management with expert operational support, enhancing efficiency and security while minimizing potential gaps.
How is Open Systems positioned in the market?
Open Systems is an established provider of SASE and Zero Trust solutions and focuses on satisfying the needs of global enterprises through effective, secure operation in diverse environments.
