The Evolution of Security in the IT World

Written by Andrew Bisson

... and how it is returning to the forefront as a key industry

From ungranted access to confidential information such as VISA numbers and client data, to attacks on IT systems by hackers, disgruntled employees or viruses, the Internet is no less vulnerable to security breaches than is everyday business. While common misconceptions of IT security are abundant, it's awareness, importance and understanding continue to grow, so much so that it continues to make it's way up the list of corporate priorities from the afterthought that it once was.

As customers, suppliers and businesses themselves continue to explore and glean the benefits of the Internet age they are also exposing themselves to the risks inherent to it. Despite the decline in IT spending since 2001, IT security as an industry has faired better than most. Corporations continue to invest in technology that not only protects them from that to which is external to the organization but also, that to which is internal.

Today's CIO's are constantly looking for new ways of cost effectively protecting their systems, assets and competitive position.  While there are a plethora of IT Security solutions on the market today, it remains a challenge for many customers to not only decipher the differences between their product features but more importantly as it relates to integrating them. 

In efforts of maximizing its effectiveness, many analysts are recommending a layered approach to security, where a combination of technologies is used. From content scanning and virus detection to intrusion detection systems and honey pots (dummy servers), advancements in approaches to security are escalating just as is the volume of cyber attacks and the identification of new IT product vulnerabilities.

Even with all this technology in place, it would not be effective without the creation of and adherence to respective policies and procedures. While many companies struggle with this facet, many others are now moving to an outsourcing model where all aspects of security are left in the hands of professionals.

While today's security systems are generally complex and focus on a particular aspect of security (point solutions), tomorrow's will be more complete, integrated, based on a common set of standards, and easier to use. With this, there will be significant consolidation in the sector over the coming years as security solutions providers look to round out their portfolios and more effectively compete in a lucrative sector.

Just as confidential information has been locked up behind closed doors in traditional business for years, the e-companies of today's Internet age must also consider how they will protect their competitive edge and protect that information which is core to their business. Enforcing company security policies, complying with government regulations and adherence to open security standards will all play key roles as to how this industry evolves. Systems attacks will only become more complex and prevalent in the future, thus fuelling competition in this sector and advancing the offerings it provides. For how Canadian firms will fair in this transition, only time will tell.  However, those firms that have invested in providing a well-rounded solution portfolio will surely be the ones that will be around in the long run.

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