One key fact-based insight into why the uptake of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions has not been higher is the complexity of adoption due to fragmented IT environments and legacy systems.

1. Legacy Infrastructure: Many organisations still rely on a mix of traditional on-premise solutions (e.g., MPLS, firewalls) and cloud-based systems. Transitioning to a fully integrated SASE model often requires significant re-architecting of network and security infrastructures, which can be costly and very time-consuming.

2. Vendor Fragmentation: While SASE is designed to converge networking and security into a single framework, most providers excel in either networking (e.g., SD-WAN) or security (e.g., CASB, ZTNA), but not both. This forces organisations to adopt multi-vendor solutions, which negates the simplicity and centralisation that SASE promises.

3. Operational Challenges: IT teams often lack the in-house expertise to implement and manage SASE frameworks, especially given the need for fine-tuning policies, managing endpoints, and ensuring minimal latency for distributed workforces.

4. Cost Concerns: Transitioning to a SASE model may involve retiring existing hardware or software before the end of its lifecycle, leading to sunk costs. Additionally, organisations are cautious about committing to recurring subscription models for services like SD-WAN and cloud-based security.

5. Uncertainty Around ROI: The benefits of SASE (scalability, improved security) are undeniable, but many organisations struggle to quantify the return on investment (ROI), especially if they’ve already sunk resources into existing solutions. In our experience, this is often a grey area—we’ve been there too.

Summary

The slower-than-expected adoption of SASE stems from operational complexity, vendor limitations, and the financial hurdles of transforming existing systems.

For SASE adoption to accelerate, vendors must simplify modular solutions that work alongside legacy systems and provide clear guidance for seamless implementation—not to mention delivering a Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) that aligns with customer needs now and during transformation.

At MountNex, we’ve been likened to a “hired gun,” bringing our expertise to cut through the complexity and guide organisations toward practical, value-driven outcomes.