NetRise Welcomes Dr. Allan Friedman as Strategic Advisor to Strengthen Software Supply Chain Security

NetRise Strengthens Team with Dr. Allan Friedman

In a significant development for the software supply chain security landscape, NetRise has officially announced the appointment of Dr. Allan Friedman as its Strategic Advisor. Dr. Friedman, who previously served as a Senior Advisor and Strategist for the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), brings a wealth of expertise and experience in digital security, particularly in the domain of software composition transparency.

Located in Austin, Texas, NetRise is renowned for providing organizations with unparalleled insights into the risks associated with software and firmware supply chains. By enhancing visibility into these areas, NetRise enables its clientele to safeguard their operations from potential cyber threats. The company’s innovative approach has positioned it at the forefront of the cybersecurity industry, especially given the rising complexity and interdependency of modern software components.

Dr. Friedman's notable tenure at CISA involved steering significant community initiatives aimed at establishing clarity around the Software Bill of Materials (SBOM). This methodology is crucial for understanding the intricate components that make up software products, thus addressing one of the industry's most pressing issues: how to secure software systems against vulnerabilities introduced by third-party code. Thomas Pace, co-founder and CEO of NetRise, expressed excitement about Dr. Friedman’s appointment, stating, "Allan is a visionary and a connector. He has spent a tremendous amount of time bringing people together to solve the oldest problem in cybersecurity."

The implications of Dr. Friedman's experience are profound. Having been instrumental in promoting the SBOM movement, he recognizes that effective cybersecurity begins with transparency. "One of the biggest hurdles in securing the software that runs the world has been agreeing on and enforcing a mechanism to create transparency," Dr. Friedman remarked. He noted that while progress has been made in understanding the importance of SBOMs, quality tools to implement them effectively are still needed. NetRise’s platform addresses this need by ensuring a comprehensive inventory of software components, ultimately helping organizations mitigate hidden risks.

Dr. Friedman’s journey prior to public service includes influential roles in academia and research institutions, including positions at Harvard University, the Brookings Institution, and George Washington University. He co-authored the widely-acknowledged book, "Cybersecurity and Cyberwar: What Everyone Needs to Know," which underscores his commitment to informing and educating about digital security.

With Dr. Friedman aboard, NetRise is poised to strengthen its mission of fostering security and transparency within the software supply chain. His vast network and knowledge will assist in furthering NetRise's vision to eliminate blind trust in software. By offering tools that empower both software producers and cybersecurity professionals, the company aims to create a proactive approach for identifying vulnerabilities and managing risks effectively.

NetRise's innovative platform operates on the principle of analyzing compiled code instead of source code, enabling a detailed and accurate representation of software asset inventories installed in enterprise environments. This approach aids in pinpointing risks specific to actual operational contexts, a crucial factor for both government and enterprise cybersecurity efforts.

In a landscape where unforeseen software vulnerabilities can lead to severe repercussions, NetRise equips organizations with the capability to respond swiftly and effectively. When these vulnerabilities are exploited, their platform allows for rapid identification, prioritization, and remediation, thereby significantly reducing business impact.

As Dr. Friedman joins the NetRise team, the organization embarks on a new chapter aimed at continually enhancing its cybersecurity solutions. By leveraging expert insights and leading initiatives, NetRise aims to redefine standards for software supply chain security and ensure that organizations can operate with confidence in their digital environments.

For more information about NetRise and its groundbreaking work in cybersecurity, visit NetRise's official website.