In a groundbreaking move in the telecommunications sector, Swisscom has unveiled Beem, the world’s first telco-delivered, network-embedded secure access service edge (SASE) offering. This revolutionary service is tailored specifically for businesses of all sizes and is backed by the Versa Sovereign SASE platform, which aims to transform enterprise security while simplifying and enhancing performance.
What is Beem?
Beem is a converged networking and cybersecurity service that operates entirely within Swisscom’s infrastructure. Unlike traditional cybersecurity approaches that rely heavily on device-based agents or fragmented multi-supplier solutions, Beem integrates security directly into the network itself. This innovative architecture empowers Swisscom to offer its enterprise customers complete data sovereignty, centralized operational control, and end-to-end service-level guarantees, all while ensuring high-trust protection at scale.
Swisscom, the leading ICT company in Switzerland, has positioned itself as a formidable player in the Italian market alongside Fastweb and Vodafone. Beem represents a unique amalgamation of security, data sovereignty, and internet connectivity, which is fully integrated into a single offering, creating a streamlined solution that benefits all business sizes.
The Innovations Behind Beem
Beem introduces several innovations to the market, redefining cybersecurity and networking standards. Key among these are:
- First to Market: Beem claims to be the first service of its kind, emphasizing true sovereignty over data.
- Unified Security and Networking: By integrating security features into the networking solution, Swisscom simplifies the user experience.
- Enterprise Security for All: Beem aims to democratize access to high-quality security for businesses large and small.
- Easy Security for Smartphones and IoT Devices: The service is designed to provide seamless protection for a variety of devices without the need for additional apps or agents.
What sets Beem apart is its ability to deliver secure, identity-aware connectivity from the moment a device connects to the network, effectively eliminating the need for cumbersome app installations, agents, or tunnels.
Regulatory Compliance and Data Residency
Another significant aspect of Beem is its commitment to compliance with stringent data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Network and Information Systems Directive 2. The service is fully operated, hosted, and governed within Switzerland, ensuring complete data residency and control for users. This focus on regulatory alignment further solidifies Swisscom’s reputation as a leader in secure digital infrastructure.
“Beem brings together the simplicity of network-based protection with the strategic control of sovereign infrastructure,” remarked Egon Steinkasserer, Swisscom’s Chief Technology Officer of B2B. He emphasized that this service allows Swisscom to provide customers with integrated internet connectivity and cybersecurity services, ensuring data sovereignty.
Partnerships and Future Directions
Swisscom’s partnership with Versa Networks has proven beneficial, as they work together to redefine what it means to be a telecommunications provider in this digital age. According to Apurva Mehta, Versa’s Chief Technical Officer, “By integrating Versa’s Sovereign SASE natively into the Swisscom network, we’re enabling a new model of secure, high-performance connectivity.” This collaboration aims to meet the increasing demands for data privacy, regulatory compliance, and digital sovereignty.
In an industry where data security is paramount, the emergence of Beem signifies a vital shift towards more reliable, integrated cybersecurity solutions. The success of this offering could inspire other telecommunications companies to explore similar integrated models, setting new standards for secure access services worldwide.
Market Reaction and Future Prospects
Initial reactions to Beem have been positive, with observers noting that Swisscom is breaking new ground in the telecommunications space. Analysts indicate that the capacity to provide in-country, secure access services illustrates a significant advancement in the telco industry. Given the growing emphasis on digital sovereignty and privacy, the demand for services like Beem may likely surge, particularly among businesses in highly regulated industries.
Furthermore, as noted by Versa, there is considerable customer interest and deployment traction for Sovereign SASE worldwide. The innovative “build-your-own” approach allows organizations, particularly in sectors with stringent regulations, to rely less on third-party software as a service environments, which can often expose them to various risks and compliance challenges.
As we look ahead, Beem’s launch not only reinforces Swisscom’s position as a thought leader in secure connectivity but also sets a precedent for other telecommunications providers to embrace a similar model, potentially reshaping the landscape of cybersecurity solutions for businesses globally.
By providing a combination of security, connectivity, and data sovereignty, Beem marks a significant step toward a more secure digital future for enterprises, positioning Swisscom at the forefront of innovation in the telecommunications industry.