SASE, NaaS, and SECaaS are interrelated because they address complementary aspects of modern IT infrastructure, and SASE can be seen as a convergence of elements from both NaaS and SECaaS. Here’s how they connect:

SASE as a Superset: SASE incorporates NaaS’s networking capabilities (e.g., SD-WAN) and SECaaS’s security services (e.g., SWG, ZTNA) into a single framework. It essentially combines the strengths of both to create a unified solution. For example, the SD-WAN component of SASE is a core feature of NaaS, while its security stack (CASB, FWaaS) aligns with SECaaS offerings.
Overlap in Functionality: NaaS and SECaaS can function as standalone services, but their components are often integrated into SASE platforms. For instance, a NaaS provider offering SD-WAN might partner with a SECaaS provider to deliver a SASE-like solution. Alternatively, a SASE platform inherently includes NaaS (networking) and SECaaS (security) capabilities.
Cloud-Centric Delivery: All three leverage cloud delivery, making them scalable and flexible. SASE takes this further by using a global network of PoPs to deliver both networking and security services closer to the user, reducing latency and improving performance.
Zero Trust Alignment: SASE and SECaaS often emphasize Zero Trust principles, requiring strict identity verification for access. While NaaS focuses on connectivity, some advanced NaaS solutions may integrate basic Zero Trust features, creating overlap with SASE’s security model.
Evolution Toward SASE: As organizations move to cloud-centric models, NaaS and SECaaS are increasingly converging into SASE architectures. For example, a company using NaaS for branch connectivity and SECaaS for web security might transition to SASE to streamline management and enhance integration.

Examples of OEMs

Cisco (SASE): Cisco’s Secure Connect integrates SD-WAN with Cisco Umbrella for security (SWG, DNS protection, ZTNA). Use Case: A multinational retailer uses Cisco SASE to connect stores and remote employees to cloud-based inventory systems. SD-WAN optimizes bandwidth for real-time stock updates, while Umbrella blocks phishing attacks, ensuring secure access for mobile workers.
Zscaler (SASE and SECaaS): Zscaler’s Zero Trust Exchange offers a full SASE solution with SD-WAN and SSE components (SWG, CASB, ZTNA). It also provides standalone SECaaS through its cloud security platform. Use Case: A healthcare provider uses Zscaler to secure patient data in cloud-based EHR systems. ZTNA restricts access to authorized staff, and SWG protects against web threats, while SD-WAN ensures low-latency access for remote clinics.
Fortinet (SASE): Fortinet’s SASE combines FortiGate firewalls with SD-WAN and cloud security. Use Case: A manufacturing firm uses Fortinet to connect IoT devices in factories to cloud analytics platforms. FWaaS secures device communications, and SD-WAN optimizes data transfer, improving production efficiency.
Alkira (NaaS): Alkira specializes in NaaS, offering cloud-based networking with SD-WAN and virtual routing. Use Case: A tech startup uses Alkira to connect multiple cloud environments (AWS, Azure) without physical hardware, scaling bandwidth dynamically as workloads grow.
CrowdStrike (SECaaS): CrowdStrike’s Falcon platform provides cloud-based endpoint protection and threat intelligence. Use Case: A financial institution uses CrowdStrike to secure remote employee devices, protecting against malware and ransomware without needing on-premises firewalls.

Use Cases

SASE: A global consulting firm adopts Palo Alto Networks’ Prisma Access to secure its hybrid workforce. Consultants accessing cloud-based CRM tools from various locations benefit from ZTNA for identity-based access and SD-WAN for optimized connectivity, reducing latency and ensuring compliance with GDPR.
NaaS: A retail chain uses Alkira’s NaaS to connect stores to a cloud-based payment system. The solution provides bandwidth-on-demand to handle peak transaction periods, reducing costs compared to traditional MPLS networks.
SECaaS: A university employs CrowdStrike’s SECaaS to protect student devices accessing online learning platforms. The cloud-based anti-malware and intrusion detection ensure secure access without requiring on-campus infrastructure.

Conclusion
While SASE, NaaS, and SECaaS are distinct, they are deeply interrelated, with SASE acting as a unified framework that incorporates elements of both NaaS (networking) and SECaaS (security). SASE’s comprehensive approach makes it ideal for organizations needing integrated solutions for distributed environments, while NaaS and SECaaS cater to specific networking or security needs. OEMs like Cisco, Zscaler, and Fortinet showcase SASE’s power, while Alkira and CrowdStrike highlight specialized NaaS and SECaaS offerings. By understanding these differences and interrelations, organizations can choose the right approach—or combination—to meet their connectivity and security goals in a cloud-driven world.