Converged networks deliver the best security, say execs

The majority of executives believe a converged voice and data network gives their communications network the best line of defence against attack.

According to the results of a global survey conducted by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for AT&T, the majority of executives (52%) believe that having a converged network gives their companies a better defence against IT security breaches.

Furthermore, nearly 70% feel that IP helps ensure business continuity following an emergency.

The survey of 395 senior executives also shows that, at the same time, network security concerns remain at the top of the list of barriers to implementing a converged IP network.

While there are concerns that IP-based voice communications can be hacked into like normal data traffic, the setting up of alternative IP-based communications in response to a disaster is far easier than analogue or traditional digital systems.

The EIU research has also highlighted the importance of the chief security officer (CSO). Although typically the CEO remains the primary decision maker for electronic security decisions (with the exception in Europe where the CIO is more likely to hold this role), the role of the CSO is rising.

The survey found that 12% of companies said the CSO was the main decision maker when it came to electronic security.

The EIU research white paper Network Security: Protecting Productivity can be downloaded from the AT&T website at:
http://www.corp.att.com/emea/insights/whitepaper/network_security4.html

Integration is key to effective VoIP

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