What connects Prisma SaaS directly to a SaaS application?

The API connection is the mechanism that directly connects Prisma SaaS to a SaaS application. APIs, or Application Programming Interfaces, are sets of protocols and tools that allow different software applications to communicate with each other. In the context of Prisma SaaS, the API enables integration with various SaaS applications, facilitating secure data exchanges and interactions.

Using APIs allows for real-time data access and automation of security functions, which is crucial for monitoring and protecting cloud applications. This connection is essential for achieving visibility into the usage of the SaaS applications, enforcing security policies, and ensuring compliance.

The other options do not provide the same level of direct integration. A portal setup might offer a user interface for accessing services, but it does not inherently connect to the application for data transfer. A dedicated gateway could facilitate network traffic but is not specifically designed for SaaS application integration. A VPN service is intended for creating secure network tunnels and does not connect directly with SaaS applications in the same manner as an API.