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Understanding Security in Network Device Selection

In a recent survey conducted by Buffalo Co., Ltd., which involved 111 IT professionals from companies with 100 to 1,000 employees, findings unveiled significant insights regarding the emphasis placed on security features during the selection of network devices. The survey aimed to shed light on the heightened awareness and challenges faced regarding security measures in an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Survey Insights

Importance of Security

An impressive 89.2% of IT professionals expressed that they feel a growing necessity for security measures in network devices. The primary reasons behind this heightened awareness were attributed to the escalating attacks targeting IoT devices, such as network cameras and routers, accounting for 59.6% of responses. Additionally, the increase in telecommuting has necessitated equivalent security measures at home (43.4%).

Key Considerations in Device Selection

Among the professionals surveyed, 86.5% acknowledged a strong consciousness regarding security when selecting network equipment. Notably, 49.0% emphasized the significance of encryption technology adoption, while 34.4% prioritized access control measures to prevent unauthorized user connections. The demand for swift disclosure of vulnerability information was also highlighted by 29.2% of respondents.

Challenges in Security Evaluation

While awareness and prioritization of security measures are evident, many professionals face substantial challenges in evaluating security. The most common issue voiced was the inconsistent presentation of security features by different companies, leading to difficulties in comparison (49.0%). Furthermore, 45.8% expressed a lack of clear evaluation criteria, making the selection process more cumbersome.

Knowledge Gaps and Organizational Awareness

Additional responses revealed a concerning trend of knowledge gaps within organizations. Professionals reported challenges such as uncertainty regarding essential security features and a general lack of understanding among employees and upper management. Responses indicated a desire for more substantial support and clarity in navigating the security landscape, as many participants felt overwhelmed by the rapid technological advancements and diverse security requirements.

The Role of JC-STAR

A silver lining to the challenges faced by IT professionals is the emergence of the JC-STAR initiative, aimed at providing rigorous evaluation and labeling of IoT products, including network devices. An overwhelming 91.0% of respondents believe that JC-STAR will become paramount for device evaluation moving forward.

The JC-STAR program, supported by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and managed by the Information-Technology Promotion Agency (IPA), serves to establish a standardized framework for assessing the security of IoT products. This initiative is designed not only to assist in informed decision-making during device selection but also to enhance overall cybersecurity in organizations.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted in the survey underscore the pressing need for clear and standardized criteria for evaluating the security of network devices. As cyber threats continue to evolve, particularly towards IoT devices, robust measures must be established to protect sensitive information. The JC-STAR initiative promises to be a valuable asset for IT professionals, aiding in the navigation of the complex cybersecurity landscape while fostering a more secure digital environment. With the increasing reliance on technology in the workplace and beyond, the establishment of effective security measures is more critical than ever.

Overall, as companies continue to face the dual challenges of integrating advanced technology and mitigating potential security threats, initiatives like JC-STAR will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of networks and devices in the future.