Research Note: Zero Trust Edge Solutions
Definition
Zero Trust Edge (ZTE) solutions represent a transformative security architecture that converges networking and security functions into a unified, cloud-delivered service model that authenticates and monitors every network interaction. This framework combines critical technologies including Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and Software-Defined WAN (SD-WAN) capabilities to deliver comprehensive security and networking services at the network edge. ZTE implements a "trust nothing, verify everything" approach by continuously validating users, devices, and applications before granting access to resources, regardless of their location or network connection. The architecture eliminates traditional perimeter-based security models in favor of identity-based access controls and continuous monitoring, enabling organizations to secure increasingly distributed workforces and cloud-first environments. According to Forrester's analysis, ZTE solutions are becoming essential for enterprises seeking to modernize their security infrastructure while maintaining performance, reducing complexity, and enabling digital transformation initiatives.
Market
The global Zero Trust Edge Solutions market is projected to reach $3.1 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 19.5% from 2021 to 2026. Key growth drivers include the increasing adoption of cloud services, mobile workforces, and digital transformation initiatives that require secure remote access to corporate resources. The rise in sophisticated cyberattacks targeting distributed users and cloud applications is accelerating demand for integrated security solutions that provide consistent protection across all access points. Enterprise migration from traditional perimeter-based security models to identity-centric, zero-trust architectures is fueling adoption of ZTE solutions that unify security and networking functions. Compliance requirements, particularly in regulated industries such as healthcare, finance, and government, are pushing organizations to adopt ZTE solutions for granular access controls, data protection, and continuous monitoring capabilities.
Vendors
Cato Networks
Founded in 2015 by Shlomo Kramer and Gur Shatz, Cato Networks pioneered the convergence of networking and security in the cloud. The company's mission is to provide enterprises with a simplified and secure networking architecture through their cloud-native platform. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Cato SASE Cloud, was purpose-built as a unified, cloud-native platform delivering integrated networking and security capabilities. The company has raised over $700 million in funding and operates one of the world's largest SASE platforms. Cato has established itself as a leader in the ZTE market by processing over 1.5 trillion security events annually across its global network.
VMware
Founded in 1998 by Diane Greene, Mendel Rosenblum, Scott Devine, Edward Wang, and Edouard Bugnion, VMware revolutionized enterprise computing through virtualization technology. The company's mission is to transform how organizations build, run, manage, connect, and protect their applications and infrastructure. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, VMware SASE, combines VMware SD-WAN with cloud-delivered security services. VMware was acquired by Broadcom in 2023 for $69 billion, marking one of the largest technology acquisitions in history. The company serves over 500,000 customers globally and has been a pioneer in cloud infrastructure and digital workspace technology.
Forcepoint
Established in 1994 as Websense and rebranded to Forcepoint in 2016, the company was acquired by Francisco Partners in 2021. Their mission is to protect the human point of contact with critical data and intellectual property wherever it resides. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Forcepoint ONE SASE, provides unified security and connectivity for users, devices, and data. The company has over 10,000 enterprise customers in more than 150 countries. Forcepoint differentiates itself through its human-centric security approach and behavioral analytics capabilities.
Juniper Networks
Founded in 1996 by Pradeep Sindhu, Juniper Networks emerged as a pioneer in high-performance networking technology. The company's mission is to build more than a network, focusing on creating innovative solutions that transform how people connect, work, and live. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Juniper Security Director Cloud, provides unified security management across their portfolio. Juniper went public in 1999 and has grown to become a major player in networking and security solutions. The company serves customers in more than 150 countries and has consistently been recognized for its innovation in networking technology.
HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise)
Founded in 2015 as a split from HP, HPE focuses on enterprise technology solutions and services. The company's mission is to advance the way people live and work by engineering experiences that unlock value faster. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Aruba EdgeConnect, came through the acquisition of Silver Peak in 2020. HPE serves customers in over 180 countries and has established itself as a leader in edge-to-cloud technology. The company continues to innovate in the SASE space through its GreenLake edge-to-cloud platform.
Cisco
Founded in 1984 by Leonard Bosack and Sandy Lerner, Cisco has grown from a routing company to a global technology leader. The company's mission is to shape the future of the internet by creating unprecedented value and opportunity for customers, employees, investors, and ecosystem partners. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Cisco+ Secure Connect Now, combines SD-WAN with cloud security. Cisco has made numerous strategic acquisitions to strengthen its security portfolio and maintains a dominant position in enterprise networking. The company serves customers in more than 100 countries and continues to be a major force in networking and security technology.
Barracuda Networks
Founded in 2003 by Dean Drako, Michael Perone, and Zach Levow, Barracuda Networks focuses on security, networking, and storage solutions. Their mission is to deliver innovative security solutions that protect organizations from cyberthreats across email, networks, data, and applications. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Barracuda CloudGen WAN, provides secure SD-WAN and SASE capabilities. The company was taken private by KKR in 2023 in a $4 billion transaction. Barracuda serves over 200,000 customers worldwide and continues to expand its cloud-first security offerings.
Palo Alto Networks
Founded in 2005 by Nir Zuk, a cybersecurity pioneer who created the first stateful inspection firewall, Palo Alto Networks has become a global leader in enterprise security solutions. The company's mission is to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life by preventing successful cyberattacks. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Prisma SASE, combines Prisma Access (SSE) with Prisma SD-WAN to provide comprehensive security and networking capabilities. The company went public in 2012 (NYSE: PANW) and has grown to over 13,000 employees globally. They serve over 85,000 customers worldwide, including 85% of Fortune 100 companies.
Versa Networks
Founded in 2012 by Kumar Mehta and Apurva Mehta, Versa Networks emerged as a pioneer in the software-defined networking space. Their mission is to provide secure and reliable connectivity for the modern distributed enterprise through their unified SASE platform. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, Versa SASE, delivers comprehensive security and networking functions through their VOS (Versa Operating System) platform. The company remains privately held with significant backing from investors including Sequoia Capital and Mayfield Fund. Versa has established itself as a leader in the ZTE market through consistent innovation and strong technical capabilities, particularly in security effectiveness and performance metrics.
Fortinet
Established in 2000 by Ken Xie, Fortinet was founded with the vision of providing comprehensive, integrated security solutions. The company's mission is to deliver broad, truly integrated, and automated cybersecurity solutions across networks, endpoints, and clouds. Their Zero Trust Edge solution, FortiSASE, combines SD-WAN capabilities with cloud-delivered security services. Fortinet went public in 2009 (NASDAQ: FTNT) and has grown to serve hundreds of thousands of customers globally. The company has established itself as a market leader through its Security Fabric architecture and custom ASIC technology.