What is the difference between CASB and SWG? What makes them unique from each other? Let us know below.
What Is the Difference Between CASB and SWG?
To begin, cloud access security or CASB refers to the software that is responsible for securing cloud applications. Meanwhile, a secure web gateway or SWG refers to the software that manages access to web content. To put it simply, a CASB is similar to a SIEM or security information and event management software. SWG is similar to an IPS or intrusion prevention system.
To better understand what CASB and SWG are, let us take a look at the differences between them.
- CASB is an application layer firewall, network traffic filtering, and monitoring tool. One that is used to monitor, block and control access to cloud applications. Additionally, CASB is responsible for checking if the cloud applications comply with policies put in place by the organization. It also detects potential cyber attacks as well as potential vulnerabilities related to the cloud applications being used by the organization. Meanwhile, SWG is largely responsible for checking if the data transferred over networks are compliant with policies set by the organization. Also, it prevents external threats from accessing sensitive information over the Web.
- CASB is software that is built specifically for use in cloud environments. One where a lot of sensitive data are stored or processed by cloud applications. It helps organizations secure their cloud-based data from being accessed or stolen by unauthorized users. Meanwhile, SWG may be used for securing non-cloud-based web applications or websites. As well as other Internet connections such as VPNs or mobile devices.
- CASB and SWG are very much alike in terms of functionality. However, they differ slightly on what they monitor and how they perform their tasks based on the policies set by their respective organizations and service providers.
Why Use Both CASB and SWG?
Companies today are constantly facing the threat of cyber attacks from different types of malware or malicious software. It is for this reason that they need a comprehensive security solution to protect their sensitive data from being stolen.
Of course, CASB and SWG are both very useful in securing companies from cyberattacks by monitoring and managing access to their cloud-based applications and data. They have different tasks to perform so it is very wise for companies to use them both.
Moreover, when used together, companies can secure their data from being compromised by threats outside and inside the company. Also, using both CASB and SWG allows companies to be well-equipped against both external and internal threats. They can prevent unauthorized access from outside threats as well as malicious software from within the organization.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, it is wise for companies to use CASB and SWG together to prevent cyber attacks on their data. It is also beneficial in securing the company against both internal and external threats. It is recommended that they carefully evaluate different solutions before making a decision on which one to use.