Networking and security company Versa Networks has launched a software-defined branch and campus LAN solution, Versa Secure SD-LAN, extending the capabilities of its unified secure access service edge (SASE) solution to certified Ethernet switches and access points.

Versa Secure SD-LAN extends standard SASE features, such as zero-trust access (typically available only for WAN networks) to LAN networks and enables organizations to software-define them. The product shares its management console, policy repository, and data lake with existing solutions built on unified SASE.

Aruba, the secure networking division of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), also announced the extension of its security policy enforcement capabilities to SD-WAN, campus switches, and Internet-of-Things (IoT) environments.

Analyst QuickTake: These announcements reflect growing competition in the SASE space as vendors look to expand the capabilities and domain coverage of their platforms. The launch of new unified SASE products, such as solutions from Cloudflare and Check Point earlier in October and increased acquisition activity in the segment throughout the year (including HPE’s own acquisition of Axis Security in March) is evidence that this movement is further solidifying in the industry.