Why is SSL inspection crucial in Zscaler's platform approach?

SSL inspection is crucial in Zscaler's platform approach primarily to decrypt and inspect SSL traffic at scale. As a significant portion of internet traffic is encrypted using SSL/TLS protocols, it prevents traditional security measures from scanning this traffic for potential threats. Without SSL inspection, malicious files or activities hidden within encrypted traffic could compromise security.

By decrypting SSL traffic, Zscaler can analyze content for threats like malware, data exfiltration attempts, or policy violations before allowing it to reach users, ensuring that businesses remain secure. This capability is essential for maintaining robust cybersecurity in an environment where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated and prevalent.

Other options do not align with the primary function of SSL inspection within the Zscaler platform. For example, creating backup copies of data is not a relevant function of SSL inspection, nor does it address potential security threats. Improving user experience on secure sites is a secondary benefit but not the core purpose of SSL inspection itself. Blocking access to all SSL sites would be counterproductive, as numerous legitimate sites use SSL encryption, and such an approach would inhibit user access to required services. The focus is rather on selectively inspecting SSL traffic to maintain both security and usability.