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The Secure Access Service Edge (SASE), introduced by Gartner in 2019, is a solution integrating networking and security within a cloud-scale architecture, enhancing end-user performance and bolstering security for organizations. Zscaler Internet Access (ZIA) serves as a cloud-delivered SASE service, functioning as a secure Internet and web gateway positioned between users and the Internet. Within ZIA, Zscaler's data protection capabilities offer numerous advantages. These include seamless scalability and global coverage, safeguarding remote workers and branch offices. Utilizing advanced threat intelligence and machine learning, it promptly identifies and addresses breaches. Granular policy controls ensure consistent enforcement of data usage policies, promoting regulatory compliance. Additionally, its integrated security stack simplifies management, enabling IT teams to concentrate on strategic priorities. In essence, ZIA empowers organizations with agile security measures to effectively mitigate risks.

This Sandbox environment features a pre-configured network topology designed to showcase the diverse capabilities of the Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN solution. The incorporated set of components within the lab topology includes Controllers and IOS-XE WAN Edges (Catalyst 8000V), all running on 20.18.1/17.18.01a code.

This lab is a continuation of the Cisco ACI Fundamentals Lab Part 1 to allow students to explore the basics of ACI Constructs, building an Application Profile, EPGs and Bridge domains, Policy Filters, and Contracts. The students then connect the ACI fabric to external layers 2 and 3 devices. The lab then finishes with ACI micro-segmentation inside an EPG to show a zero-trust model. Unlike Cisco ACI Fundamentals Lab Part 1, which uses a simulator due to resource sharing with other students, this lab uses the latest ACI hardware and allows the student to test real-world data plane connectivity inside and outside the fabric.