Previous

Page - 11

BFSI spending on security is high because banks have complex networks that need to be protected. In addition, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is forcing banks to adhere to its guidelines for security audit and related policies. The RBI has mandated that banks document a security policy and periodically review its efficacy by conducting regular IS Audits.

Large banks like HDFC, ICICI, and YES Banks have outsourced large security components. The high awareness of information systems security in the banking sector is a direct result of this policy. Most enterprises have a distributed network with offices and customers in multiple locations. This and remote access are the key factors driving growth in security. Implementing and managing security is the biggest challenge facing the enterprise segment, as intrusion can take place at any time. This calls for constant monitoring of the network and updating of security solutions.

Telecom

Telcom companies are becoming more security conscious, spending between Rs 15-20 lakh on security products, implementation and consultancy. E.g. Bharti has outsourced its entire IT infrastructure to IBM. Organizations like Rallis have outsourced their entire security processes outside. The major advantages include minimal capital expenditure, established SLAs, freedom from platform and technology obsolescence and freedom of maintaining a round-the-clock expensive in house support staff.

Information Technology /Business Process Outsourcing

The technology vertical seems to be on strong ground on matters of security. The nature of their business involving offshore outsourcing from global enterprises that requires strict laws and security norms calls for security measures.

Manufacturing

Manufacturing sector which are now storing data in digital format are prospects for Security services. Organizations from manufacturing sector often adopt an integrated appliance at both the client and gateway levels. Elitecore's Cyberoam bagged orders from organizations like Chambal Fertilizers and Chemicals, BHEL etc.

Enterprise Security Market Trends

KPMG Management Assurances Services recently undertook a survey of 800 Indian companies across various industries. The results were included in a report titled 'India Risk Management Survey Report 2001.' In the survey, 78 percent of the respondents said their organizations had not recently evaluated the controls portfolio in relation to risks faced by them.

Next

* Contributed by: -
Prasun Goel,
Symbiosis Centre for Management and
Human Resource Development (SCMHRD), Pune