A Secure Service Gateway (SSG) is an advanced network security solution that acts as a "checkpoint" for all data entering and leaving your network.

While it performs many of the same tasks as the HTTPS Proxy we discussed earlier, it is much more powerful. If a proxy is like a delivery driver, an SSG is like an armored security detail that inspects every package, checks IDs, and makes sure no one is smuggling secrets out of the building.

The SSG sits between your internal network and the external internet. It doesn't just pass traffic through, it pulls it apart to see what’s inside.

• SSL/TLS Inspection: Since most web traffic is encrypted a normal firewall can't see what's inside. An SSG "breaks" the encryption (with permission), scans the data for viruses or stolen passwords, and then re-encrypts it before sending it on.
• Application Control: It can distinguish between "using Facebook for work" and "playing Facebook games." It allows the app but blocks the specific "game" part to save bandwidth and keep people focused.
• Data Loss Prevention (DLP): It watches for sensitive info (like credit card numbers or secret project files) leaving your network. If it sees a file upload containing "CONFIDENTIAL," it can stop it instantly.