Coffee shop networking

What is coffee shop networking?

Coffee shop networking simplifies branch infrastructure by combining networking and security features into a single solution that provides optimized connectivity to the cloud and Security Service Edge (SSE). It adheres to zero trust principles by assuming all endpoints are untrusted by default until they are identified and authenticated.

Unlike traditional office networks, coffee shop networking does not require extensive branch hardware or VPN. Instead, it leverages cloud-based services and internet connectivity to provide a simple, cost-effective solution, and ensures efficient access to applications and resources. Coffee shop networking is designed to be easily scalable, allowing businesses to expand or modify their network as needed. 

Key technologies include:

• SD-WAN: A simplified version of SD-WAN is used to manage network traffic efficiently from the branch, ensuring stable and reliable internet connectivity. Unlike traditional SD-WAN deployments, this approach doesn’t need site-to-site connectivity, focusing instead on direct, optimized access to cloud services and SSE.
•  SSE (Security Service Edge): SSE integrates essential security functions to protect users and data:
  • ZTNA: Ensures workers are authenticated and granted access only to specific resources based on least-privilege principles.
  • DEM (Digital Experience Monitoring): DEM tools continuously monitor and optimize the user experience, ensuring that cloud applications perform reliably and efficiently.
  • Organizations can add other security features such as SWG to protect users from web-based threats such as malware and phishing attacks, or CASB and DLP to protect sensitive data within SaaS applications by preventing unauthorized access and data leakage.
• Local Wi-Fi: Managed Wi-Fi networks provide secure, reliable connectivity for employees, simplifying access and ensuring seamless performance.

Coffee shop networking transforms branch offices by integrating these technologies to deliver simplified infrastructure, enhanced security, and optimized connectivity to the cloud and SSE, supporting the needs of modern, distributed workforces.

As the workplace continues to evolve, businesses need to adapt their networking strategies to meet the demands of a hybrid workforce and distributed operations. Coffee shop networking offers:

• Simplified branch infrastructure: Coffee shop networking reduces complexity by streamlining branch architecture, making it an ideal solution for businesses with multiple small branch locations, such as retail stores, hospitality sites, or companies that rent office spaces. The solution is designed to be easy to deploy and manage, reducing the need for complex configurations and extensive IT resources.
• Support for hybrid work: Coffee shop networking offers the flexibility needed to support employees working remotely or in non-traditional settings. It ensures secure and reliable access to resources, regardless of the user’s location.
•  Scalability: Coffee shop networking scales to allow businesses to easily add new locations or accommodate additional users without significant infrastructure changes.
• Upgrade from ZTNA or SD-WAN: Organizations that have already invested in ZTNA can easily move to coffee shop networking by adding SD-WAN capabilities and reciprocally.

Coffee shop networking offers numerous benefits, particularly for businesses embracing hybrid work models and seeking cost-effective, secure networking solutions. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Branch network simplification: As applications have moved to the cloud, coffee shop networking allows organizations to streamline their branch network equipment while providing secure connectivity to the cloud.
• Optimized cloud and hybrid work connectivity: Designed for cloud-first environments and hybrid workforces, coffee shop networking provides a consistent user experience and secure access to applications and resources.
• Cost savings: By minimizing reliance on traditional networking equipment and private circuits, coffee shop networking significantly reduces costs. This cost efficiency is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses and organizations managing numerous branch locations.
• Improved security: Coffee shop networking incorporates advanced security features, such as ZTNA and secure SD-WAN to protect against cyber threats. This ensures that sensitive data and applications remain secure, even when accessed from less secure environments.