For enterprises running legacy software on-premise, modernizing applications for the cloud is often a complex and risk-laden endeavor. One of the biggest hurdles in cloud adoption—especially in multicloud and hybrid deployment models—is security. Traditional perimeter-based security approaches are no longer sufficient to protect modern workloads, leaving enterprises exposed to rapidly evolving sophisticated cyber threats.
Recognizing the need for security to be embedded in cloud modernization efforts, Zscaler, a leader in cloud security and an SAP partner, now offers its Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) service natively integrated within RISE with SAP. Delivered through the Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform, Zscaler Private Access™ (ZPA™) for SAP enables enterprises with on-premise ERP workloads to migrate to the cloud securely and efficiently—eliminating the complexity and risks associated with traditional VPN-based access.
Source: Zscaler
Why This Matters to SAP Customers
SAP RISE enables enterprises to transition from legacy on-premise deployments to cloud-based SAP solutions, helping them become more agile and competitive. However, moving mission-critical workloads to the cloud introduces new security challenges, such as securing user access, preventing lateral movement, and protecting against cyber threats in a perimeter-less environment.
Zero Trust architecture addresses this challenge. Instead of relying on network-based security models, Zero Trust enforces least-privileged access, ensuring that only authenticated and authorized users can access SAP workloads—whether they are in private data centers, public clouds, or hybrid environments. Zscaler’s integration with SAP RISE helps customers:
- Reduce security risks by eliminating implicit trust and verifying every access request dynamically.
- Enable secure hybrid work by allowing employees, partners, and suppliers to securely access SAP applications from anywhere without relying on VPNs or exposing networks.
- Improve compliance and governance by ensuring consistent security policies and real-time threat protection across cloud workloads.
Zscaler’s Role in SAP RISE: How the Integration Works
Zscaler brings its Zero Trust Exchange platform to SAP RISE, offering:
- Secure access to SAP applications: Users can securely connect to SAP workloads without exposing applications to the internet.
- Microsegmentation and threat containment: By enforcing Zero Trust policies, the integration minimizes lateral movement risks, reducing the impact of potential breaches.
- End-to-end visibility and policy enforcement: Enterprises can enforce uniform security policies across SAP applications, regardless of where they are deployed.
The integration aligns with SAP’s strategy of helping enterprises modernize with secure, cloud-based solutions while ensuring business continuity, resilience, and compliance.
A Step Forward in Secure Cloud Modernization
As enterprises embark on their cloud transformation journeys, security must be a foundational element rather than an afterthought. The shift to cloud-based and hybrid environments brings significant operational benefits but also introduces new security challenges that traditional perimeter-based models cannot address. A Zero Trust approach, which enforces least-privileged access and dynamic security policies, is becoming essential for protecting modern workloads.
Partnerships such as the one between SAP and Zscaler demonstrate how security can be integrated into cloud transformation initiatives, giving enterprises the confidence to modernize without compromising protection. By embedding security into migration strategies from the outset, organizations can reduce risk, improve resilience, and accelerate digital transformation with greater trust and agility.
