What role does the policy engine play in Zscaler's architecture?

The policy engine is a critical component of Zscaler's architecture, primarily responsible for creating and managing security policies. It interprets and enforces policies that control how users interact with applications and the internet, ensuring that security measures are consistently applied across the organization. By establishing rules regarding data access, malware protection, and user permissions, the policy engine helps safeguard sensitive information while allowing for a seamless user experience.

This functionality is essential in a cloud-based security model, where traditional perimeter defenses are insufficient. Instead of relying on hardware installations or physical devices, Zscaler employs a cloud-native approach, allowing the policy engine to operate effectively on a global scale. This capability underlines the importance of policy management in modern security frameworks, ensuring that organizations can adapt to evolving threats and regulatory requirements without the need for constant hardware updates.