SASE Isn’t Here To Replace MPLS VPN, Despite What You’ve Heard

Word on the street is that SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) is here to replace MPLS VPN (multiprotocol label switching virtual private network), like streaming services made cable TV less relevant. And sure, SASE has all the modern perks: built-in security, cloud-native flexibility, and the ability to handle remote users and cloud workloads like a pro.

But here’s the truth: MPLS VPN isn’t outdated—it’s the reliable backbone that keeps your network running strong. SASE isn’t here to replace it; it’s here to enhance it.

Why Hybrid Connectivity Is A Must For Modern Networks

In today’s fast-paced digital world, hybrid connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. For businesses of all sizes and industries, combining private and public network access on a single circuit is what enables real flexibility, performance and security. Whether you’re handling sensitive data, supporting remote teams or running AI-driven applications, hybrid connectivity is the secret sauce that helps your network adapt to your evolving needs. That’s where MPLS VPN and SASE come into play, delivering the ultimate combo of protection and optimization for your hybrid network.

MPLS VPN: The Foundation

Imagine your network as a building, with MPLS VPN as the sturdy foundation that keeps everything grounded. It’s the backbone that offers a secure, private connection between your sites, data centers and cloud environments. Just like a strong foundation helps a building stand firm during a storm, MPLS VPN provides a reliable and secure pathway for your critical data to travel, free from the unpredictable elements of the public internet.

Whether it’s delivering sensitive data or providing consistent performance for business-critical applications, MPLS VPN’s private, dedicated connections help keep your network stable and secure.

SASE: The Blueprint

Now that we have a solid foundation, we need the plan—and that’s where SASE comes in. Think of SASE as the blueprint that outlines how your network operates securely. It’s your network security architect, integrating cloud-native security functions like secure web gateways, firewalls and Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) into your network. It’s the intelligence that directs traffic, keeps data safe and provides seamless connectivity no matter where your users or data are.

The Power Couple Of Hybrid Connectivity

It’s not one or the other—MPLS VPN and SASE are stronger as a team, creating a networking powerhouse that’s secure, flexible and built to handle whatever your business throws at it.

• MPLS VPN builds a private, high-performance highway for your critical data and apps, helping to keep them fast and secure.
• SASE layers on cloud-based security and traffic intelligence, supporting protection and smooth operations for everything from public internet traffic to cloud apps.

The magic happens when they work together: MPLS VPN delivers private performance while SASE secures and optimizes everything else, all on a single hybrid circuit. This means you benefit from enhanced:

Flexibility: Adapt to changing business needs and new cloud apps without reworking your entire network.

Security: Protect sensitive data and public traffic with advanced, cloud-native security.

Performance: Support fast, reliable access for critical applications with minimal slowdowns.

Scalability: Expand with ease whether you’re adding new locations, supporting remote teams or running AI-driven workloads.

The bottom line? Hybrid connectivity isn’t just a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s essential. MPLS VPN and SASE together give you the best of both worlds: secure, high-performance private networking plus cloud-first agility and security.

Ready to see how Lumen IP VPN and SASE can transform your network?

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