Security as a Service is a way to deliver security technologies, traditionally deployed as hardware appliances in enterprise data centers or regional gateways, as a cloud service. Security as a service has become an important enabler of business in the increasingly cloud and mobile world because it is everywhere, providing secure access to applications and services no matter where they are hosted or where users connect. Security as a service closes gaps in enterprise security created by off-net users and those connecting directly to cloud apps and the open internet rather than being routed through the secure gateway.
Security as a service (SECaaS) is a business model in which a service provider integrates their security services into a corporate infrastructure on a subscription basis more cost-effectively than most individuals or corporations can provide on their own when the total cost of ownership is considered. SECaaS is inspired by the "software as a service" model as applied to information security type services and does not require on-premises hardware, avoiding substantial capital outlays. These security services often include authentication, anti-virus, anti-malware/spyware, intrusion detection, Penetration testing, and security event management, among others.
Outsourced security licensing and delivery are boasting a multibillion-dollar market. SECaaS provides users with Internet security services providing protection from online threats and attacks such as DDoS that are constantly searching for access points to compromise websites. As the demand and use of cloud computing skyrockets, users are more vulnerable to attacks due to accessing the Internet from new access points. SECaaS serves as a buffer against the most persistent online threats.
