UNLEASHING THE DIGITAL POTENTIAL

UNLEASHING THE DIGITAL POTENTIAL

E& ENTERPRISE IS SPEARHEADING GOVERNMENT DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

CLOUDFLARE ACQUIRES BASTIONZERO TO ADD ZERO TRUST INFRASTRUCTURE ACCESS CONTROLS FOR CLOUDFLARE ONE

E& ENTERPRISE CONCLUDES INAUGURAL ‘FUTURE NOW SQUARED’ FOCUSED ON ZERO GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRACY

OOREDOO GROUP UPGRADES CYBERSECURITY FOR B2B CUSTOMERS, PARTNERS WITH SENTINELONE

NETAPP APPOINTS JOSÉ MANUEL PETISCO AS VICE PRESIDENT FOR EEMI

ITECH’S GREEN REVOLUTION

n today’s fast-paced world, technology is more than just a tool for innovation; it’s a catalyst for sustainability. Recently, I had the privilege of speaking with industry leaders who shared their insights on how the tech sector can lead the charge toward a greener future.

Energy efficiency is at the forefront of this green revolution. Companies are developing cutting-edge hardware and software that consume less power, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Data centres, which have traditionally been energy guzzlers, are now being redesigned with innovative cooling systems and powered by renewable energy sources.

Embracing circular economy principles, many tech companies are now using recycled materials in their products and running comprehensive recycling programs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning are playing crucial roles in this transformation. These technologies optimise resource use and enhance supply chain management, contributing significantly to sustainability goals. Initiatives like AI-driven agricultural optimisation and space-based forest

monitoring demonstrate how tech can address critical environmental issues effectively.

Consumers also play a pivotal role in this journey. Their demand for sustainable products and services pushes companies to innovate responsibly. By offering energy-efficient devices and maintaining transparent sustainability practices, tech companies can meet this demand while fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.

In this collective effort, collaboration between tech companies, consumers, and governments is crucial. Together, we can harness the power of technology to create a sustainable future.

Join us in exploring how technology is driving a greener tomorrow, one innovation at a time.

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CLOUDFLARE ACQUIRES BASTIONZERO TO ADD ZERO TRUST INFRASTRUCTURE ACCESS

CONTROLS FOR CLOUDFLARE ONE

Cloudflare announced the acquisition of BastionZero, a Zero Trust infrastructure access platform, to further strengthen remote access to core IT systems for customers of Cloudflare One, the company’s secure access service edge (SASE) platform.

Combined with existing Cloudflare One capabilities the acquisition of BastionZero gives IT and security teams Zero Trust controls for infrastructure like servers, Kubernetes clusters, and databases. This expands the scope of Cloudflare’s VPN replacement solution beyond apps and networks to infrastructure resources. As a result, security teams can centralise management of even more of their hybrid IT environment, while using standard Zero Trust practices to keep DevOps teams productive and secure.

With traditional virtual private network (VPN) security set-ups, developers and systems architects are granted overly permissive and long-lived access to a company’s most sensitive systems, such as servers and databases. In a world of hybrid work, this is an increasingly costly, risky, and outdated approach, hindering the ability to securely deploy new systems and react to a fast-changing business environment.

“The world of work has changed dramatically. Employees have the expectation that they can effectively do their work from anywhere. There’s no reason why teams managing an organisation’s most important systems can’t have the same flexibility,” said Matthew Prince, co-founder and CEO, Cloudflare.

“Incorporating BastionZero into Cloudflare One gives IT teams access to an organisation’s most critical inner workings securely, wherever they are. Millions of organisations around the world trust Cloudflare to protect their systems and data so they can focus

on their business and their customers. The addition of BastionZero is just one more way we can protect them like no one else can.”

Adding BastionZero’s technology to Cloudflare One will give hybrid and remote IT teams access to their most critical assets remotely, resulting in:

• Increased security: Eliminating the need and risk of long-lived passwords and credentials by making it even easier to abide by Zero Trust principles for system access.

• Increased compliance: Ensuring just-in-time permissions for every person trying to access core systems and servers—such as developers and systems administrators—even if they’re working remotely, while following centralised policy controls with identity-aware logging.

• Increased control: Enabling individuals to have access to information and systems only when they need it with “just-in-time” policy options.

• Reduced complexity: Removing the need for legacy workaround

security patches between systems (e.g. jump hosts) and more quickly granting access across complex infrastructure with policy controls and observability.

“Scalable and secure remote access to company servers and other infrastructure is table stakes for every IT and development team,” said Sharon Goldberg, Co-founder and CEO at BastionZero. “But homegrown solutions increasingly create security risks and operational costs. This acquisition enables us to deeply integrate BastionZero’s unique cryptographic approach for simple passwordless infrastructure access into the world’s largest secure access service edge (SASE) network. We’re proud to join Cloudflare to help companies provide Zero Trust access to their most critical infrastructure assets.” Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. acted as exclusive financial advisor to BastionZero on this transaction.

Launched in 2020, Cloudflare One is one of the fastest-growing platforms for secure access service edge (SASE) and security service edge (SSE) services. Companies worldwide rely on Cloudflare One to ensure only the right employees have access to the right internal systems and data at the right time with minimal burden on employees. This acquisition will expand Cloudflare’s cloud security capabilities in the SASE market.

According to Gartner, “Over the next five years, the market for secure access service edge will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 29%, reaching over $25 billion by 2027. The underlying SASE products that buyers will use will be split between singlevendor and dual-vendor approaches.”

Cloudflare One is a key part of Cloudflare’s connectivity cloud, enabling organisations to bring more IT security tools onto a single platform and making it easier to implement secure access to all their resources, from developer access to technical infrastructure to ever-expanding cloud services.

E& ENTERPRISE CONCLUDES INAUGURAL ‘FUTURE NOW SQUARED’ FOCUSED ON ZERO GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRACY

e&enterprise concluded the first ‘Future Now Squared,’ a thought leadership event designed to foster collaboration and propel technology innovation in the UAE and beyond. Gathering top executives and senior government officials, this exclusive series provided invaluable insights from renowned national and international thought leaders, setting the stage for groundbreaking advancements across industries.

The inaugural event emphasised the importance of reducing bureaucratic processes to streamline government operations and enhance efficiency. It also reinforced e& enterprise’s support for the UAE Government’s ambitious vision of progressive governance that’s free from bureaucratic barriers.

“We are standing at the precipice of a new era in governance, where technology and innovation are the catalysts driving efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness in public services. At e& enterprise, we are resolute in our commitment to being a trusted partner of governments in this important journey. Our innovative services and solutions empower governments to streamline processes and elevate service delivery standards,” said Salvador Anglada, CEO, e& enterprise.

He added: “Future Now Squared is our commitment to driving technological innovation and excellence. By bringing together the best minds and thought leaders from around the world, we aim to inspire and equip our leaders with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the future landscape.”

In the UAE, the commitment to digital transformation is more than a strategic priority; it is a testament to the leadership’s vision for a future where government services are seamless, efficient, and citizen-centric. Ranking first in the Arab world and seventh globally in the UN’s 2022 E-Government Development Index, the UAE’s standing highlights its relentless pursuit of excellence in digital governance and its proactive embrace of cutting-edge technologies.

Building on this, the UAE Government launched the ZGB (Zero Government Bureaucracy) programme last year, a significant and exceptional shift in government procedures. It seeks to eliminate redundant government procedures and requirements, significantly simplifying the administrative process. Ministries and government entities are tasked with immediately implementing the programme, which includes cancelling a minimum of 2,000 government measures, halving the time required for procedures, and removing all unnecessary red tape by the end of 2024. This initiative aims to bolster the effectiveness of government procedures and elevate the UAE’s standing in global competitiveness rankings for government efficiency and minimal bureaucracy.

The main keynote address was delivered by His Excellency Mohammed Bin Taliah, Chief of Government Services of the UAE Government. In his speech he emphasised on the crucial role of human-centric design in transforming business operations and services. This approach, places users at the heart of technological advancements, ensuring that innovations are not only functional but also intuitive and accessible.

“This has impacted real-time data exchange and decisions made from ongoing data analysis revolutionising service delivery and business operations for decades to come. The future will be characterised by a connected digital ecosystem in which all sectors of society are seamlessly and securely integrated, enhancing service provision to both

individuals and businesses throughout the nation.”

His Excellency said: “We always strive to be the most efficient government in the world, and the best at providing services to all sectors of society. Our evaluation of any digital transformation project is primarily based on its timely impact on society— aiming to simplify people’s lives and create a conducive and supportive environment for businesses to thrive and grow.”

The event also saw Mohammad Sear, Digital Government & Public Sector Consulting Leader and Professor of Digital Governments and Innovation at Sciences PO Paris, highlight the urgent need for technology-driven transformation to reduce bureaucracy and enhance public service efficiency. He underscored the critical role of digital innovation in streamlining governmental processes and improving citizen engagement.

Meanwhile, in a fireside chat, Adel Al Falasi, CEO of Oliver Wyman in the UAE, addressed the challenges government agencies and enterprises face when implementing new technologies and processes to comply with the Zero Government Bureaucracy strategy. The discussion explored practical solutions and best practices for overcoming these obstacles, ensuring a smooth transition to a more efficient and user-centric public service landscape.

Future Now Squared underscored the value of collaboration between the public and private sectors to achieve the ZGB programme’s goals, setting a benchmark for future initiatives aimed at improving government efficiency and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.

“e& enterprise stands ready to partner with governmental entities to support them in the ZGB initiative,” said Ragy Magdy, CCO of e& enterprise. “We offer the expertise and the innovative solutions tailored to address the unique challenges of modernising public service delivery.”

The Future Now Squared initiative will continue to host a series of exclusive industry thought leadership events. Upcoming chapters will focus on sectors such as transport, energy, oil and gas, and BFSI, bringing together top global thought leaders and the brightest minds in the country.

OOREDOO GROUP UPGRADES CYBERSECURITY FOR B2B CUSTOMERS, PARTNERS WITH SENTINELONE

In a proactive step to help its business customers respond to an increasingly complex threat landscape,

Ooredoo Group announced today a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) agreement with SentinelOne. This collaboration aims to empower businesses across Ooredoo’s footprint with state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions tailored to their unique needs.

As part of this partnership, Ooredoo will integrate Singularity Endpoint, SentinelOne’s innovative endpoint detection and response solution, into its comprehensive suite of cybersecurity offerings. This advanced technology leverages artificial intelligence and machine learning to proactively detect, prevent, investigate, and remediate cyber threats in real-time, providing unparalleled protection against evolving cyber risks.

The MSSP agreement will cover all Ooredoo’s operating companies, with the service being gradually launched

across the entire footprint in the coming weeks. This ensures that businesses across all regions benefit from advanced cybersecurity measures.

“With cyber-attacks growing in sophistication and frequency, organisations face unprecedented challenges in safeguarding their digital assets,” said Najib Khan, Group Chief Business Services Officer at Ooredoo.

“Through the MSSP partnership with SentinelOne, we can upgrade our cybersecurity offerings, allowing our B2B customers to focus on their core business operations while we ensure their digital environments are secure. It’s a significant step in our commitment to supporting digital transformation with robust and reliable security solutions.”

“We are excited to partner with Ooredoo to bring our industry-leading cybersecurity solutions to businesses in Qatar,” said Meriam Elouazzani, Regional Director for Middle East, Turkey

NETAPP APPOINTS JOSÉ MANUEL

PETISCO AS VICE PRESIDENT FOR EEMI

NetApp announces the appointment of José Manuel Petisco as the new VP for the EEMI region, which includes Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa, Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. Petisco, with over 30 years of experience in the information technology sector, takes on this new responsibility after serving as the General Manager of NetApp Iberia since 2022, and previously as the Cloud Director of NetApp for Ibero-America since joining the company in 2021. Prior to joining NetApp, Petisco had a

long career at Cisco, where he held various management positions in Sales, Marketing, and Business Development, both in Spain and Europe, for 19 years. His extensive experience also includes positions of responsibility at companies such as 3Com, Alcatel, Ericsson, and Veritas.

In his new role, Petisco will oversee the implementation of NetApp’s global strategy in key regions for the company, focusing on digital transformation and the adoption of new platforms with intelligent data infrastructures for private and public cloud environments. He will work closely with the organisation’s customers and partners to drive growth, profitability, and digitalisation of businesses.

“This opportunity, taking on this new role, represents a significant challenge and, at the same time, an immense responsibility,” says José Manuel Petisco. “During my years at NetApp, I have been

and Africa, SentinelOne. “By leveraging Ooredoo’s extensive network and market reach, we aim to empower organisations with the tools they need to defend against advanced cyber threats effectively.”

This partnership aligns with Ooredoo’s strategic vision to enrich the digital lives of its customers through a comprehensive ICT portfolio, supported by skilled resources and strategic partners. It underscores Ooredoo’s commitment to providing innovative, reliable, and secure solutions.

fortunate to work at the forefront of digital transformation, collaborating closely with teams and customers to implement innovative solutions in data management and cloud services. My goal in this new role is undoubtedly to continue driving NetApp’s leadership in these strategic regions. I am committed to taking our vision and strategy to new horizons, always focused on the ever-changing needs of our customers and market dynamics. I appreciate the trust placed in me for this role and I am eager to collaborate with our talented team, valuable partners, and customers to achieve new levels of success and excellence.”

According to Giovanna Sangiorgi, Senior Vice President of NetApp EMEA and LATAM, “Jose Petisco has led the business in Iberia and get Spain to climb the ladder and get to the top ranking. He inherits a strong legacy and I’m fully confident that with the support of the strong leadership team built so far and his experience and trajectory, he will continue to deliver growth and add value to our customers’ and partners’ business in this Area.”

SPRINKLR AND REDDIT EXPAND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO HELP CONNECT ENTERPRISES WITH REDDITORS

Sprinklr, the unified customer experience management (Unified-CXM) platform for modern enterprises, and Reddit today announced an expanded strategic partnership. The partnership spans both Reddit’s Data API as well as its Advertising API, which is now open with Sprinklr as the first official partner.

Sprinklr works with many of the largest brands in the world to bring together teams, tools, and data for every customer facing team on one unified platform. Deep partnerships with social and digital channels help Sprinklr customers monitor and understand brand-relevant conversations, optimise brand content for maximum reach and engagement, and tailor advertising for maximum effectiveness and ROI.

“Reddit’s differentiated approach to interest-based communities allows for

contextually rich engagement and a different approach to advertising. This is a compelling formula for Sprinklr enterprise customers and especially important as the privacy landscape continues to evolve,” said Sprinklr VP of Global Partnerships, Jim Tomanchek. “Sprinklr is the only platform offering enterprise brands a unified approach to manage every aspect of their brand on Reddit. This integration will help our enterprise customers integrate Reddit as a core pillar of their brand and marketing strategies.”

“It’s getting harder for businesses to drive growth – there are fewer new places to reach, understand, and meaningfully engage with audiences online,” said Reddit’s VP of Business Development, Jonathan Flesher. “We’re excited to partner with Sprinklr because we know the deep value of Reddit’s contextually-rich discussions as a means for businesses to learn what people think, spot trends, test ideas, and participate in informed discussions. Our partnership with Sprinklr will connect their customers to the most relevant, engaged, and real conversations on the internet, and set them up for success.”

Sprinklr and Reddit Data API Integration

The Reddit Data API provides Sprinklr customers direct access to

near real-time public conversations on Reddit. This social listening partnership will show relevant Reddit posts and comments in Sprinklr’s interactive customer dashboard. By combining Sprinklr’s best-in-class analytics with Reddit’s unmatched archive of constantly-updated human conversation, brands and businesses now have access to enhanced feedback and sentiment, trends, and competitive insights to better understand their customers, brand reputation, and power business growth.

Sprinklr and Reddit Advertising API Integration

As Reddit’s first advertising API partner, Sprinklr customers can access the full Reddit advertising suite and easily integrate Reddit into their enterprise advertising strategies and campaigns. Enhanced data and insights via the Sprinklr Data API integration can also help inform advertising strategies to reach intended audiences on Reddit. Sprinklr is the only Reddit partner that provides brands with the ability to combine insights, organic content, and paid content on a unified platform. For more information on enhancing your brand presence on Reddit with Sprinklr, contact your Sprinklr team or visit, www.sprinklr.com.

INFOBIP LAUNCHES ITS OPERATIONS IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Infobip, a global cloud communications platform, has launched its operations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This significant milestone reflects Infobip’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Middle East and strengthening its infrastructure to better serve clients in KSA and the neighbouring countries.

Infobip has also launched its first data centre in KSA, to host and process the data within the country, in line with international data security standards. The data centre in Riyadh is expected to support businesses, create numerous job opportunities, and contribute to the local economy. It offers scalability and reliability to meet the evolving needs of businesses across various industries.

To ensure further compliance with the KSA market requirements, Infobip is obtaining all the necessary licenses and certificates for successful operation,

including the SMS license that the company received recently.

Amsal Kapetanović, Infobip Country Manager KSA, said: “The launch of Infobip’s operations in Saudi Arabia is a testament to our dedication to investing in the local market and enhancing our capabilities to serve our clients better. As the world’s most connected communications platform, we provide a broad range of capabilities at scale. These include our omnichannel communications, contact centre, chatbot, customer engagement and customer data platforms as well as our identity and security solutions”.

Infobip’s operations in Saudi Arabia include a range of advanced communication solutions designed to enhance customer engagement and streamline business processes. The company offers omnichannel communication services, including SMS,

KYNDRYL’S SECURITY AND RESILIENCY SERVICES SUPPORT ALINMA BANK’S RAPID GROWTH

Kyndryl announced that Alinma Bank has successfully completed the orchestration and automation of its IT disaster recovery capabilities using Kyndryl’s Resiliency Orchestration services. The collaboration aims to support uninterrupted operations and secure critical data against disruptions, aligning with data center resiliency and redundancy standards set by the Saudi Central Bank (SAMA). Kyndryl’s solution provides advanced features that help enable the bank to monitor, validate, and activate its IT disaster recovery capabilities, thus mitigating risks and impacts of disruptions on IT services.

Digitalisation in Saudi Arabia continues to grow, with the total transaction value in the digital payments market projected to reach USD $63.9 billion in 2024, according to Statista. Experts from MIT predict that disruptions — from climate change, technological advancements, and unexpected events — will intensify by

15-25 percent worldwide over the next five years, along with their associated costs, underscoring the need for robust preparedness.

“As we continue to lead an innovative digital transformation journey, ensuring our operations are consistently protected and available is paramount,” says Yasser Hedied AlOufi, Chief Information Technology Officer, at Alinma Bank.

“Kyndryl’s expertise and services not only reduce costs, but also support our growth by helping to protect our investments

email, voice, and chat apps, tailored to meet the needs of local businesses. By fostering local partnerships and driving digital transformation, Infobip aims to impact the Saudi Arabia’s technology landscape.

“We are excited about the opportunities that this expansion brings to our clients in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. It underscores our commitment to providing reliable, secure, and highperformance communication solutions that connect businesses with their customers,” said Zeid Shubailat, Director at Infobip. Infobip plans to continue its expansion in the Middle East, with future initiatives aimed at strengthening its presence and supporting the region’s digital ecosystem.

and providing agile and secure IT infrastructure.”

Alinma Bank has chosen Kyndryl’s sophisticated resiliency orchestration and automation services to ensure the robust management of its mission-critical services. The solution automates IT Disaster Recovery testing and failovers, providing real-time visibility into disaster recovery performance, through a comprehensive dashboard. This also supports and enables compliance through the rapid generation and submission of detailed reports with the click of a button, simplifying previously cumbersome tasks, and allowing the bank’s teams to focus on innovation and transformation.

“Kyndryl is committed to assisting forward-looking institutions like Alinma Bank in preparing proactively for risks, enhancing resource utilisation, and establishing agile IT infrastructure necessary for scaling,” says Piet Bil, Managing Director, Kyndryl MEA. “Our security and resiliency services help provide a secure and resilient environment that supports continuous, uninterrupted operations.”

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SUSTAINABILITY DRIVE IN TECH INDUSTRY

THE TECH INDUSTRY LEADS SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS VIA DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION, UTILISING AI, IOT, AND BLOCKCHAIN TO OPTIMISE OPERATIONS AND REDUCE EMISSIONS. FIRMS PRIORITISE RENEWABLE ENERGY, ENERGY-EFFICIENT HARDWARE, AND CIRCULAR ECONOMY PRACTICES. COLLABORATIONS AND REGULATIONS ENHANCE THESE EFFORTS, PAVING THE WAY FOR A GREENER FUTURE. LET’S EXPLORE INSIGHTS FROM TECH LEADERS IN MEA.

Vijay Jaswal, Chief Technology Officer, APJ,ME&A, IFS

Sustainability initiatives

In the technology sector, impactful sustainability initiatives include adopting renewable energy, developing energy-efficient hardware, and implementing circular economy practices. Major firms power data centres with renewable sources like wind and solar, cutting carbon emissions. Innovations in energyefficient processors and servers reduce overall energy consumption. Circular economy efforts, such as recycling e-waste and using sustainable materials, minimise waste and promote resource efficiency. IFS technology integrates sustainability into business operations by providing data on resource consumption and waste, optimising production and logistics, and promoting product longevity and responsible end-of-life practices. This fosters a smaller carbon footprint and a more sustainable future for businesses.

Leveraging emerging technologies

Emerging technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain are being leveraged to enhance sustainability efforts and promote eco-friendly practices

within tech companies. AI optimises energy consumption by managing and predicting energy needs in real-time, while IoT devices monitor and reduce waste by providing precise data on resource & asset usage. Blockchain enhances transparency and efficiency in supply chains, ensuring sustainable sourcing and reducing carbon footprints. Together, these technologies enable smarter, data-driven decisions, streamline operations, and foster a culture of sustainability, driving tech companies toward greener practices and contributing significantly to environmental conservation.

Government’s role

Government regulations and collaborations play a crucial role in driving sustainability initiatives within the technology sector by setting standards, providing incentives, and fostering partnerships that encourage eco-friendly practices. Regulations such as carbon emissions limits and e-waste management laws compel tech companies to adopt greener operations. Collaborative efforts, including publicprivate partnerships and industry alliances, facilitate the sharing of best practices and innovative solutions. Businesses can effectively navigate and contribute to these efforts by actively engaging in policy dialogues, adhering to compliance requirements, and participating in collaborative sustainability projects, thereby

aligning their strategies with regulatory expectations and advancing collective environmental goals.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

Advancements in energy-efficient hardware and data centre technologies are significantly contributing to sustainability goals in the tech industry. Energy-efficient processors and cooling systems reduce the power consumption of servers, while innovations in virtualisation and cloud computing enhance resource utilisation, decreasing the number of physical machines required. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources to power data centres further minimises their carbon footprint. These technological improvements not only lower operational costs but also help tech companies achieve their environmental targets by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable practices.

Innovations on the horizon

Innovations on the horizon that could further accelerate sustainability in the technology sector include quantum computing, advanced AI-driven energy management systems, and next-generation battery technologies. Quantum computing promises to revolutionise problem-solving efficiency, reducing energy consumption for complex

computations. AI-driven systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated in optimising energy usage across various operations. Meanwhile, breakthroughs in battery technologies, such as solidstate batteries, offer longer life cycles and more efficient energy storage. Companies are preparing to integrate these advancements by investing in research and development, forming strategic partnerships, and updating their infrastructure to be adaptable and scalable, ensuring they can swiftly adopt these cutting-edge technologies to enhance their sustainability efforts.

Ayush Dubey, Dy. General ManagerApplied, Daikin Middle East and Africa

Sustainability initiatives

In the Middle East, HVAC equipment in the residential buildings consumes almost 50% of the energy requirement. From sustainable application perspective, using cooling equipment to generate chilled water and hot water reduces usage of boilers in buildings (especially hotels and hospitals) improving combined efficiency by up to 400%. Along with usage of low GWP refrigerants such as R32 and R1234ze, in these HVAC equipment, above 2 initiatives provide maximum impact towards sustainability and contribute immensely in reducing carbon footprint of HVAC industry. To highlight, Daikin spends approximately $700M every year on R&D to realise contributions to a sustainable society and group growth in coming years.

Leveraging emerging technologies

To give an example, we launched Daikin iPlant Manager in the region. This development represents a major advancement in central plant optimisation and control solutions, utilising Machine Learning and Model

Predictive Controls to maximise central plant efficiency. This state-of-the-art technology infrastructure is a proven solution with successful deployments in over 30 countries across six continents. It is even applicable for retrofit applications with existing chiller plants and greenfield applications with new designs, making it a tangible and effective solution for reducing carbon footprints. IoT-enabled technologies such as remote monitoring (Daikinon-Site) of HVAC systems and smart glasses for technicians, coupled with secure transmission of data using blockchain, ensure that preventive maintenance and corrective actions are implemented at the right time so that systems are working efficiently. In fact, all chillers that are supplied by Daikin in the UAE are now smartly enabled with a possibility for remote connection and monitoring, should the customer choose to connect it.

Government’s role

Regulations play a major role as it helps in creating a minimum efficiency baseline to support carbon emissions reduction target and to guide the end users. HVAC industry collaborates with the regulation agency to provide inputs on latest technology and developments to shape these minimum efficiency requirements. Developers can also get more value for their investment by following ratings for the buildings such as LEED, Estidama, Dubai green building regulation which are more stringent than minimum efficiency requirements and HVAC manufacturers can support with more efficient systems and controls.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

Continuous evolvement of hardware in data centres and their cooling requirements is having a positive impact on power usage effectiveness (PUE) of data centres. With higher water temperatures now required for cooling enables use of free-cooling even in warm weather conditions of Middle East improving efficiency of the system. New server cooling methods such as liquid

cooling further improves efficiency of the system. On controls side, implementation of predictive analytics to optimise cooling requirement and hot and cold aisle airflow management supports in overall sustainability and carbon footprint reductions.

Innovations on the horizon

Daikin offers a wide portfolio of products and services that can meet all application needs - HVAC systems utilising low GWP refrigerants, improvement in inverter technology (such as refrigerant cooled VFDs), usage of Hybrid heating systems utilising heat recovery of HVAC equipment in combination with boilers, improvement in predictive and realtime analytics to have more connected system are some of the innovations that will support sustainability further. Manufacturers are continuously investing in research and development and looking at various M&As to accelerate their development and offerings to achieve sustainability goals.

Ned Azba, CTO, Kyndryl MEA Sustainability initiatives

The technology sector, while contributing to environmental issues, is also a key player in combating climate change.

According to a Kyndryl and Microsoft study, 80% of organisations recognise technology’s role in achieving sustainability goals. Key initiatives include migrating to the Cloud for energy efficiency, with examples showing up to an 87% reduction in energy consumption. Decarbonisation solutions, leveraging AI, IoT, digital twins, and blockchain, enhance energy efficiency and supply chain optimisation. Additionally, companies are optimising data centres with energyefficient hardware and renewable energy sources. These efforts

underscore the sector’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint while driving towards a more sustainable future.

Leveraging emerging technologies

AI can be leveraged to monitor carbon emissions and highlight improvement opportunities, expand renewable energy access through improved supply and demand predictions, minimise waste through process optimisation, and protect biodiversity by tracking wildlife threats to aid in adaptation planning. IoT sensors can provide valuable data across operations and supply chains, crucial for identifying efficiency improvements and reducing waste and emissions. They can also predict equipment maintenance needs to extend device lifespans, monitor energy consumption and operational efficiency, and assist with resource management like water and electricity. Blockchain’s secure and transparent nature can simplify data collection and integrity, supporting transparent goals and protecting against greenwashing perceptions.

Government’s

role

Regulations and collaborations are crucial in addressing climate change collectively. Regulations impose standards and mandates, with ESG reporting regulations increasing in the Middle East and the EU’s CSRD affecting over 10,000 nonEU companies. These frameworks encourage sustainable practices and innovation. Collaborations enable greater progress by pooling knowledge and demanding better performance from suppliers. Embracing multistakeholder partnerships drives systemic change towards achieving net zero goals.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

Advancements in energy-efficient hardware and data centre technologies drive sustainability in the tech industry. Energy-efficient servers, strategic workload placement, and cooling innovations like AI and liquid cooling reduce emissions. Additionally,

the sector’s demand for renewable energy stimulates its production, further aligning data centres with environmentally sustainable practices.

Innovations on the horizon

Organisations now focus on measuring and controlling scope 3 emissions across the value chain with the help of technology like AI, IoT, and blockchain. Emerging solutions like AI and cloud technologies drive efficiency improvements, predictive analytics, and sustainability initiatives. However, balancing technology’s energy demands with environmental conservation requires modernising data centres and adopting renewable energy.

Ahmad Cheble, SME –Data, Code81

Sustainability initiatives

Before reducing your carbon footprint, you must accurately understand your current emissions and take decisions accordingly. Proper ESG data management is crucial for this. By implementing a robust ESG data strategy and ensuring end-to-end management of ESG data, you establish a single source of truth that is highquality and well-catalogued with clear ownership. This enables you to visualise and accurately track sustainability metrics. With this approach, you can make informed decisions to effectively reduce your carbon footprint, enhancing transparency and accountability in your sustainability reporting.

Leveraging emerging technologies

Once the strategy for ESG data management is established, and we reach the accurate ESG reporting phase, tech companies can effectively leverage emerging technologies. With robust ESG reporting and business intelligence in place, AI can optimise resource use and predict environmental impacts. IoT enhances

these capabilities by feeding real-time data into AI models, while blockchain secures the data’s integrity, crucial for transparency. These integrated technologies transform ESG insights into actionable steps for advancing sustainability practices.

Government’s role

Government regulations and collaborations are pivotal in steering sustainability initiatives within the technology sector, setting essential standards and fostering innovations. To effectively navigate and contribute to these efforts, businesses should stay informed about legislative changes, actively engage in policy discussions, and leverage public-private partnerships. This proactive involvement not only ensures compliance but also enhances their contributions to sustainable development, aligning corporate strategies with governmental goals and benefiting from shared resources and knowledge.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

Advancements in energy-efficient hardware and data centre technologies are significantly driving sustainability in the tech industry. Energy-efficient hardware reduces power consumption and emissions, while modern data centres incorporate better cooling systems, renewable energy integration, and virtualisation to enhance server efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. These improvements collectively help in lowering energy usage and carbon footprints, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Innovations on the horizon

Innovations on the horizon that could further accelerate sustainability in the technology sector include advancements in renewable energy integration, next-generation battery technologies, and AI-driven optimisation for energy consumption. Companies are preparing to integrate these advancements by investing in research and development, forming partnerships with innovative startups, and updating

their infrastructure to accommodate new technologies. This proactive approach ensures they are ready to adopt and benefit from new sustainable technologies as they become available, further reducing their environmental impact.

Atul Rajput, Director, Channel Partners & End Customers – EMEA at Axis Communications

Sustainability initiatives

Reducing the carbon footprint requires a holistic approach, focusing on both operations and the supply chain. For Axis, 65% of emissions come from product use. Key strategies include efficient hardware design, like using ARM-based processors, and innovations like smart compression algorithms to reduce data and energy use. Extending product lifespan through constant software updates and choosing vendors offering Long Term Support (LTS) also helps minimise environmental impact and reduce the cycle of ‘take, make, waste.’

Leveraging emerging technologies

Technology is essential in achieving sustainability goals, embedded in the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. Innovations like IoT sensors, cloud computing, big data, and AI offer integrated solutions for measuring impacts and analysing emissions. For example, cities use surveillance cameras and IoT air quality sensors to monitor and optimise traffic, reducing air pollution. This approach helps cities meet sustainability targets by identifying and addressing pollution hotspots.

ethical and sustainable practices. Affecting 50,000 businesses, CSRD will enforce stricter audits and scrutiny, reducing environmental impact across value chains. For instance, Axis aims to reduce scope 3 emissions by demanding 100% fossil-free energy sourcing by 2030. The CSRD’s external audits will also deter greenwashing, ensuring genuine sustainability efforts.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

Technology companies are focusing on water conservation, crucial in their supply chains. Semiconductor manufacturers are exploring Waterless Fabrication, and data centres are adopting Advanced Cooling Technologies. Innovations include liquid cooling to reduce water use and AI-optimised cooling systems to enhance efficiency and lower energy consumption.

Innovations on the horizon

Quantum computing promises significant energy reductions in complex computations, decreasing processor and cooling needs. AI and IoT sensors optimise energy use in data centres and buildings by predicting workloads and adjusting systems based on occupancy. Edge computing reduces energy use and latency by processing data locally, a trend gaining momentum.

Rasha Hasaneen, Chief Product and Sustainability Officer, AspenTech

Government’s role

The EU is implementing directives like the CSRD, effective in 2025, to hold companies accountable for their operations and supply chain partners’

Sustainability initiatives

Modelling climate and sustainability outcomes has been complex due to necessary simplifying assumptions. However, advancements in AI and quantum computing now allow for accurate modelling. Asset-intensive companies can quickly respond to changing needs, leveraging data

insights, engineering fundamentals, and industry expertise to achieve sustainable, reliable business outcomes with Industrial AI.

Leveraging emerging technologies

AI advancements, including generative AI and deep learning, are making technology more accessible, driving demand and enabling advanced features. These new capabilities allow us to model previously unmanageable processes, resulting in better outcomes, energy efficiency, and lower emissions.

At AspenTech, we leverage these advancements with domain expertise to enhance decision-making, automate analyses, and improve sustainability and operational excellence for companies.

Government’s role

Government plays a crucial role in regulating industries for worker safety, community health, and environmental protection. As the energy transition progresses, it will also be essential in developing, scaling, and deploying critical technologies like carbon capture, hydrogen economy, and renewable energy. However, regulations often lag behind innovation, causing issues like the U.S.’s complex permitting processes delaying renewable projects. Digital technologies can streamline these processes, but collaboration between tech, industrial sectors, and governments is vital for investing in new sustainability technologies. Countries like India are training workers for the digital economy, allowing global participation in the energy transition and poverty alleviation through AI and software opportunities.

Advancements contributing to initiatives

AI plays a significant role in optimising processes in highly automated factories and control systems. Additionally, AI is crucial for complex systems, extending beyond individual facilities to state value chains and value systems. By handling this complexity, AI enables optimisation across systems, which is vital as we reach physical limits in some processes. Currently, many systems

do not communicate with each other, but technology can bridge these gaps. Integrating disparate systems allows optimisation on an unprecedented scale, creating a harmonious, connected ecosystem. This approach ensures precise management and tracking, reducing bottlenecks and gaps, and enhancing overall efficiency.

Innovations on the horizon

We’re witnessing a perfect storm where the tech and industrial sectors converge. Employees are increasingly building “green” skills, seeking connection to their company’s sustainability goals. This trend, along with the rise of AI, is driving new processes and ideas, enhancing customer success and sustainability.

Gaurav Mohan, VP Sales, SAARC & Middle East

Sustainability initiatives

In the technology sector, firms are increasingly investing in renewable energy sources like solar and wind to power their operations, alongside efforts to enhance data centre efficiency and embrace circular economy principles through durable, recyclable product design. Prioritising sustainable sourcing and manufacturing, companies demonstrate a commitment to reducing carbon footprints and fostering environmental sustainability. Many also focus on understanding and managing ESG issues, utilising assessments to identify growth areas, mitigate risks, and enhance transparency. By aligning ESG programs with strategic initiatives and disclosing efforts through frameworks like SASB and

TCFD, firms showcase dedication not only to sustainability but also cybersecurity solutions, addressing critical challenges in digital ecosystems.

Leveraging emerging technologies

AI optimises energy use, IoT enables real-time monitoring to minimise waste, and blockchain ensures transparent, ethical supply chains. In agriculture, AI promotes sustainable yields, IoT aids smart city development, and blockchain facilitates renewable energy trading. Embracing these technologies empowers tech firms to enhance sustainability and contribute to a greener future.

Government’s role

The UAE government’s proactive approach in setting standards and fostering partnerships reflects its commitment to ecofriendly practices. By incentivising innovation, it enables tech firms like NETSCOUT to align with sustainability goals, driving both innovation and sustainable development in the region, setting a global precedent for environmental stewardship and economic growth.

Innovations on the horizon

Companies are looking at natural resources such as solar and wind power to cut down on the use of fossil fuels. More efficient batteries are helping store energy, and smart tech is managing resources more efficiently. Some companies are designing products to be reused or recycled, and there’s research into ways to capture and store carbon emissions. The integration of smart grid technologies with IoT devices is being pursued to improve the management of energy resources and reduce grid losses. These collective efforts underscore the tech industry’s commitment to sustainability and realising a more environmentally friendly future.

Sujay Patil, Regional Director - MEA, Kissflow

Sustainability initiatives

Technology, particularly through digitalisation and automation, is pivotal in sustainability and ESG efforts. Digital platforms like Kissflow enable paperless operations, reducing waste and resource consumption. Automation streamlines processes, driving efficiencies and reducing carbon footprint, while low code/ no code solutions democratise IT, allowing agile development of applications for ESG initiatives.

Sustainability requires a concerted effort across departments and technology facilitates the necessary data collection, tracking, and integration. Without it, the essential job of measuring and monitoring progress towards sustainability goals would simply be impossible given the scale and complexity at which modern enterprises operate.

Leveraging emerging technologies

AI’s data analytics identify optimisation opportunities like customer trends and resource inefficiencies. At Kissflow, combining AI with Low Code/No Code democratises IT, empowering users to automate processes without technical skills. This accelerates workflow development, reducing human effort and associated emissions.

Government’s role

Last year, we saw the GCC Exchanges Committee introduce its set of unified ESG disclosure metrics for publicly listed companies in the GCC which is in line with the trends of green investing. As the climate consciousness of customers continues to increase, organisations are also under greater pressure from their customer bases to operate efficiently. And finally, there are cost benefits to be had from reducing resource consumption. All of these are business drivers that will ultimately translate into IT projects that CIOs will have to deliver upon.

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UNLEASHING THE DIGITAL POTENTIAL

SALVADOR ANGLADA, CEO OF E& ENTERPRISE HIGHLIGHTS THE COMPANY’S TRANSFORMATIONAL JOURNEY, ITS PIVOTAL ROLE IN GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE SECTOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION, AND CONTRIBUTIONS TO ADVANCING TECHNOLOGY AND SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES. THE COMPANY’S EXPERTISE IN CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES LIKE AI, CLOUD, AND IOT POSITIONS IT AS A KEY PLAYER IN THE ONGOING DIGITAL EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC SERVICES.

From being incubated as Etisalat Digital to being carved out as a standalone entity, can you shed some light on e& enterprise’s remarkable transformational journey and its notable achievements?

Our journey began several years ago as part of the telecommunications sector, integrated with telecommunication services. Initially, we focused on selling services that complemented connectivity, leading to significant growth in the telco sector. During this time, we made our first acquisitions and undertook large-scale projects that transformed customer infrastructures. We also incubated companies that continue to thrive today.

Three years ago, we redefined our strategy, giving birth to e& enterprise as an independent entity. Since then, e& enterprise has been a success story, achieving nearly 30% growth year over year and on track to surpass $1 billion in revenue this year. We now operate in three countries, soon to be four, and boast a team of 2,000 subject matter experts. It has been a remarkable journey, filled with numerous achievements and a promising future ahead.

Since e& enterprise caters to both government and private sectors, how different is digital transformation in government compared to the private sector?

The differences between the private and public sectors are quite significant. The private sector is primarily driven by economic value and return on investment(ROI). Companies ensure that their expenditures yield economic returns, typically implementing changes gradually. They focus on enhancing digital channels and backend process automation but rarely undertake largescale programs.

In contrast, government transformation involves extensive changes aimed at improving services for citizens and ensuring end-to-end transformation. Government projects focus on enhancing service delivery and fulfillment. Success in the public sector is measured by citizen satisfaction, the number of users accessing digital services, and the quality of these interactions. These projects often involve large steering committees and multiple stakeholders, frequently reporting to high-level government officials, adding pressure to deliver timely and effective results.

At e& enterprise, we navigate these differences by tailoring our approach to each sector’s unique requirements and challenges. We leverage our deep technological expertise and sectorwide insights to drive successful transformations. Our goal is always to deliver solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also align with our clients’ strategic objectives and broader societal needs.

What role do cutting-edge technologies such as AI, cloud, and IoT play in facilitating government transformation efforts?

These technologies are fundamental to digital transformation. Cloud computing serves as the foundation, providing the elasticity needed to reach more people and build platforms that integrate various services across government organisations.

IoT is critical for national projects, gathering data from devices and sensors to create valuable applications for citizens. For example, our Hassantuk Smart Fire Alarm System connects 70,000 households in real-time, monitoring potential fire hazards. Additionally, our smart city solutions utilise IoT data to optimise traffic lights, parking systems, and waste management, thereby enhancing urban living conditions.

AI is a game-changer with the potential to save billions in productivity costs within the government sector alone. In the future, AI will be applied to all services, enhancing and personalising them. We anticipate significant advancements in hyper-personalisation, tailoring services to individual needs based on AI-driven insights. AI will also automate tasks, improving efficiency and response times during unexpected events, such as the recent floods in the UAE.

What impact do you anticipate government transformation will have on public service delivery, efficiency, and citizen satisfaction?

Government transformation aims to provide services online and ensure they are interconnected, creating unified platforms. For example, Dubai Now consolidates various services onto a single platform, enhancing accessibility and adoption. The goal is to offer services 24/7, reducing the need for physical mobility and improving the overall efficiency and experience of public service delivery.

We are also focused on end-to-end digital service delivery, integrating intelligent automation to fulfill services automatically. This approach streamlines customer journeys, ensuring efficiency and satisfaction. For instance, we are transforming judicial services by modernising the frontend interactions and applying AI to improve service delivery. This massive effort involves process engineering and redesigning customer journeys to ensure optimal experience and efficiency.

At e& enterprise, we are committed to partnering with government entities to ensure that our technological solutions align seamlessly with these goals of public welfare and innovation.

What challenges does the public sector encounter during the transformation journey and how can e& enterprise support in addressing them?

Some challenges are similar to those in the private sector, such as dealing with siloed IT architectures and ensuring data protection and security, especially with cloud services. Government projects also involve managing multiple stakeholders and addressing their specific requirements.

e& enterprise is well-equipped to tackle these challenges. We offer flexible cloud solutions, from private to public and sovereign clouds, tailored to meet customer needs. We have extensive cybersecurity practices, ensuring robust data protection and compliance. Our experienced project management office efficiently handles large projects, providing governance and addressing the unique challenges of government projects.

E& ENTERPRISE IS AT THE FOREFRONT OF DRIVING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND SUSTAINABILITY IN BOTH GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE SECTORS. BY

LEVERAGING CUTTINGEDGE TECHNOLOGIES

LIKE AI, CLOUD, AND IOT, THECOMPANY IS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF PUBLIC SERVICES AND ENHANCING THE OVERALL EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF SERVICE DELIVERY.

In what ways is e& enterprise contributing to accelerating the nation’s digitisation efforts?

We are engaged in some of the country’s most important projects. For instance, we played a crucial role in Expo 2020, establishing the digital infrastructure and business applications. We managed the ticketing system, digital channels, and customer interactions, successfully accommodating 20 million visitors.

Our Hassantuk Smart Fire Alarm System monitors over 70,000 households in real-time, with plans for significant expansion. Additionally, our collaboration with DMCC transformed Jumeirah Lake Towers into Dubai’s first 5G-powered smart and sustainable district, offering unprecedented operational control and efficiencies.

We are also modernising Abu Dhabi’s electricity and water grids, enabling real-time monitoring and efficient resource management for households. These projects highlight our capability to deliver complex, large-scale digital transformation initiatives on time and with exceptional quality.

Sustainability is crucial for a resilient future, with governments playing a key role in promoting and implementing sustainable practices essential for guiding societal and economic progress. How do you see the role of technology and government collaborations in driving and fulfilling sustainability commitments?

Technology and government collaboration are crucial for sustainability. With the amplification of efforts like COP 28, we have set ambitious goals for 2030, aiming for net-zero emissions within the UAE.

We support government entities in advancing their sustainability agendas by providing consultancy services and platforms to measure and reduce consumption and emissions. For example, we deploy IoT sensors and AI-driven algorithms to monitor energy consumption in real-time and identify areas of inefficiency. By optimising energy use in smart buildings through automatic adjustments of lighting and temperature settings, we not only reduce costs but also minimise environmental impact.

Our Centre of Excellence spearheads these efforts, making sustainability a significant and expanding focus area.

In your view, which key technological trends will have the biggest impact on the government sector in the near term?

AI is poised to impact the government sector significantly. The combined value of generative AI, traditional AI, and predictive analytics is immense. These technologies will revolutionise customer interactions, create efficiencies, and accelerate the development of new services.

Predictive AI and analytics, in particular, enable governments to better anticipate and address societal needs. By analysing vast datasets, AI can identify patterns, trends, and potential issues, facilitating proactive decision-making and policy formulation.

While cloud, IoT, and data remain crucial, AI will lead the next wave of innovation and improvements in government services.

CRAFTING TAILORED SOLUTIONS

LEV MATVEEV, CHAIRMAN

OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SEARCHINFORM ADDRESSES GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY CHALLENGES WITH TAILORED SOLUTIONS AND AI INTEGRATION, ENSURING PROACTIVE THREAT MANAGEMENT AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE.

What notable trends have you observed in the cybersecurity landscape across different regions?

Across various regions, the cybersecurity landscape is witnessing notable trends shaped by global challenges. One significant focus is on internal threat protection, as organisations grapple with a surge in data leaks and violations, compounded by the rising cost of breaches, averaging $4.45 million in 2023.

Legal requirements are tightening, mandating the implementation of advanced solutions like DLP and DCAP, driving demand for efficient security measures. SMEs are particularly vulnerable due to a shortage of IS experts, with approximately 557,000 in the UAE and 1.2 million in the KSA. To mitigate this, organisations are turning to IS outsourcing, subscribing to software solutions to circumvent hiring challenges and hardware costs.

Additionally, a shift is observed towards a balanced approach in tackling external and internal threats, driven by the increasing severity of insider attacks, reported by 74% of organisations. This underscores the need for reevaluating security strategies to address vulnerabilities from within.

With the growing complexity of cyber threats, how do SearchInform ensure continuous monitoring and proactive threat management?

We offer turnkey protection to our customers, encompassing the deployment of protective solutions, configuration of security policies, and continuous monitoring of employee data interactions by our IS analysts. These analysts prevent incidents and conduct corporate investigations while ensuring strict control over data access rights. Regular reports are provided to customers, and in emergencies, prompt notifications and investigations are conducted.

With over 4000 partners and customers in 20+ countries worldwide, SearchInform has accumulated extensive expertise in information security. Feedback from diverse companies across different regions and industries enables our analysts to address unique cases, enriching our database and facilitating rapid adjustments to our solutions for enhanced protection against modern threats.

Our service offers comprehensive defense against internal threats such as data leaks, access rights violations, corporate fraud, document forgery, theft, kickbacks, bribery, idleness, and breaches of labour discipline. With 25 years of experience in the IS market, we have developed numerous pre-configured security policies tailored to both general and industry-specific needs.

How do Managed Security Services assist organisations in achieving regulatory compliance and maintaining high data protection standards? In developed nations, legal frameworks mandate stringent procedures for handling personal, financial, and sensitive data. Our experts analyse these regulations to craft specialised security policies, which are then implemented for our clients. For instance, in the UAE, the Information Assurance Regulation mandates the use

of Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions. Our service, comprising DLP and Data Classification and Protection (DCAP) systems, caters to SMEs unable to invest in protective software or hire dedicated IS personnel, granting them access to essential technologies for compliance.

What emerging trends and technologies do you anticipate will shape the future of Managed Cyber Security Services, and how is SearchInform preparing to leverage these advancements?

Customers prioritise the speed of analysis and affordability when selecting cybersecurity services. Solutions offering comprehensive features at competitive prices are in high demand. Our service excels in swift analysis without system overload or the need for additional hardware expenses. It boasts a broad range of capabilities, including the unique feature of blocking arbitrary file actions. Furthermore, we integrate AI technology for facial and image recognition, as well as audio decoding from messaging apps. This advanced functionality aids in verifying legitimate user activity on corporate PCs, preventing unauthorised photo capture of monitors via smartphones, and detecting threats by analysing messenger conversations. By offering efficient and cost-effective solutions with cutting-edge AI features, we address key customer concerns in today’s cybersecurity landscape.

What are the future plans for SearchInform in the coming years?

SearchInform is expanding its presence in key markets like South-East Asia, North Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and Turkey. We adapt to local nuances, tailoring solutions to regional needs, such as localising software and establishing specialised teams. Our growing partner network ensures accessibility to cuttingedge cybersecurity solutions globally.

PRAGMATIC INNOVATION REDUCES RISK WHILE BUILDING COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE

SAVIO TOVAR DIAS, VICE PRESIDENT OF AVAYA CUSTOMER

EXPERIENCE SERVICES AT AVAYA INTERNATIONAL, DISCUSSES PRAGMATIC INNOVATION’S ROLE IN MINIMISING RISK AND ESTABLISHING A COMPETITIVE EDGE.

In today’s business landscape, the most significant challenge facing business leaders is the imperative to drive revenue and growth amid competitive pressures.

There are many contributing factors that make overcoming this challenge all the more difficult – from the unpredictability of the global economic environment which often drives up costs of goods and services, through to the difficulty in recruiting and retaining top talent and navigating the complexities of diverse customer expectations.

At a time when customer service makes or breaks companies, these challenges underscore the importance of a holistic approach to customer experience (CX) – one which is seamlessly integrated CX with employee experience (EX) and business growth. Securing and keeping repeat buyers drives positive bottom lines, and the symbiotic relationship between these three components is foundational to sustainable growth and overcoming the competition.

There’s no slow-down in the rate at which organisations are pushing for this foundation. Analyst firm Gartner expects IT spending in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to jump 4% yearon-year in 2024, exceeding $183.8 billion.

Significant chunks of those budgets are going towards bridging the growing gap between current customer experience (CX) and employee experience (EX) platform capabilities and the everevolving needs and expectations of these stakeholders.

However, the prospect of making an abrupt change from existing business communication infrastructure carries

high risks for businesses, including potential disruptions to operations and customer service continuity. This fear of instability hinders innovation and the ability to drive new business outcomes.

Attempting to do everything at once only heightens that risk – and executives have good reason to be wary of that risk. According to McKinsey, regardless of an IT project’s size, just 59% pass the finish line on budget, and only 44% deliver the results that were originally intended. But things get really scary when it comes to large-scale IT projects: A McKinsey and Oxford University study found that IT projects budgeted at over $15 million ran, on average, 45% over budget and delivered 56% less value than intended.

This makes a compelling argument for transformation strategies that are progressive and pragmatic. Ripping and replacing the technology investments which have proven effective to date introduces additional risks for companies’ day-to-day operations and customer service continuity.

This culminates in instability that dominos across internal teams and external stakeholders; it is likely to hurt the CX an organisation offers, and inhibits the potential for future innovation and business outcomes.

It’s a matter of learning to crawl, then walk, then run. A pragmatic transformation allows organisations to forge ahead into new territories through targeted tests and pilots, introduce new services and channels across specific use cases, and explore advanced capabilities such as generative AI without compromising their day-to-day.

It’s also about building on what is

already proven to work by leveraging familiar processes, systems and technology as a baseline for new capabilities. In most cases, the safest route to innovation is to identify specific teams or departments – sometimes even single use cases within them – and evolving parts of their job functions before deciding whether that innovation should go to a broader number of stakeholders.

The IT industry is littered with stories that not only demonstrates that a largescale overhaul comes with a plethora of risk, but that it might not even make sense to apply blanket change in large enterprises where different departments have diverse needs.

Taking a pragmatic approach will be particularly crucial in the face of highimpact technologies such as (generative) AI. For example, an organisation looking to boost employee productivity by feeding accurate, up-to-date data to their workers can test large language models (LLM) within specific thresholds. Once those test cases have been evaluated and improved, they will be viable to other teams without causing disruption.

The pressure to correct existing and establish new revenue streams is at an all-time high, compounded by economic and operational adversities. Companies should not have to compromise their existing strengths to achieve their ambitions and build competitive advantage. Resisting the excitement that surrounds new technology in favour of pragmatic transformation ensures business leaders will navigate the intricacies of their existing environment while innovating progressively without disruption.

DATA TAMPERING IS AN UNDERRATED THREAT — GET YOUR BACKUP READY

CHARLES SMITH, CONSULTING SOLUTION ARCHITECT, DATA PROTECTION AT BARRACUDA NETWORKS (EMEA), EXPLORES THE OFTEN OVERLOOKED THREAT OF DATA TAMPERING AND ADVISES ON THE IMPORTANCE OF ENSURING YOUR BACKUP IS PREPARED FOR SUCH RISKS.

The constant string of attacks organisations face is an ever-present reminder of how important it is to have an up-todate, readily accessible copy of everything that matters to your business. Resilient backups allow you to recover more quickly from data damage, disruption, or loss, particularly if a ransomware attack has resulted in encrypted or deleted files.

These are well-known and widely reported benefits of backups — but there’s more. Immutable data backups can also protect you from the underrated threats of data tampering and malicious insiders, unpredictable activities that can significantly damage brand trust and reputation if they’re not addressed.

Data tampering and manipulation

Data tampering such as deletion and manipulation have been called the “next level of cyberattacks.” While attacks on data integrity aren’t new, their growing sophistication in the age of generative AI will make them harder to spot.

The perpetrators could be external, such as activists or nation-state groups, but more often they are internal, disaffected insiders with broad access rights out for revenge, mischief, personal, or financial gain.

Hypothetical external incidents could include an attacker successfully breaching a stock market’s IT system to alter share price updates, leading to panic selling and financial chaos. There are also reported examples of malicious insiders trying to alter data records within their current or former company, changing passwords,

disabling servers, deleting files, or engaging in cyberespionage.

Companies need defences that will detect and prevent any attempt at data tampering inside the network, but also provide them with a robust and accurate version of the truth that can restore the original data and set the record straight.

The

double defence against data tampering

Your first layer of protection should be a security solution that includes strong access controls, data encryption, secure communication protocols, and AI-driven measures to detect and respond to anomalies that could signpost attempted data interference.

There is a second, equally important layer of defence: an immutable data backup. Immutable data cannot be changed or deleted. This means that if an attacker does manage to tamper with or manipulate your communications, documents, and more — your backup files are unaffected and can be used to restore data and prove beyond doubt where content has been falsified.

The many benefits of immutable backups

1They offer an extra line of defence against determined bad actors. Despite the security measures in place, determined attackers may find ways to compromise or bypass security controls. Immutable backups provide an extra safeguard by ensuring that even if the primary data is tampered with, the backup remains intact and unaltered.

2They protect the company from insiders with ill intent. No one likes to think about insider threats. These are your colleagues after all. But our own recent research suggests that malicious insiders were the root cause of around a third (39%) of data breaches in the last year. Immutable backups help to protect against insider attacks, as they prevent authorised users from altering or erasing data.

3They mitigate the impact of ransomware. Immutable backups can protect against ransomware attacks by ensuring that a clean, unaltered copy of the data is available for restoration, reducing the impact and potential need to pay the ransom.

4They protect you from accidental data corruption. Data can be corrupted due to hardware failures, software bugs, or human error. Immutable backups help protect against these scenarios by providing a point-in-time copy of the data that cannot be modified or corrupted, allowing for reliable data restoration.

5They are essential for compliance and data protection regulations. Some industry sectors and regulatory frameworks require organisations to maintain immutable backups for data retention and compliance purposes. Immutable backups ensure the integrity and authenticity of the data. By combining security measures with immutable backups, organisations can implement a resilient data protection strategy that addresses both major, common cyberthreats such as ransomware and underrated, unanticipated threats that could do just as much harm. With immutable backups, you’re ready for them all.

ENHANCING SECURITY OPERATIONS WITH AI-DRIVEN SOC INSIGHTS

BOB HANSMANN, SR. PRODUCT MARKETING MANAGER – SECURITY AT INFOBLOX, EXPLORES HOW AI-DRIVEN SOC INSIGHTS CAN ENHANCE SECURITY OPERATIONS.

In the relentless battle against cyber threats, Security Operations Centers (SOCs) find themselves grappling with a multitude of challenges. According to the SANS 2023 SOC Survey, a staggering 60% of SOC analysts report increasing workloads, with 65% considering a job change within the next year. Other surveys call out that 55% of organisations are missing critical alerts almost daily, and 64% of analysts report that redundant manual work consumes over half of their time. These statistics underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions to bolster SOC efficiency and resilience in the face of evolving threats.

Enter SOC Insights, a groundbreaking AI-driven security capability integrated into Infoblox’s DNS Detection and Response (DNSDR) solution, BloxOne Threat Defense. SOC Insights is designed to address the persistent challenges faced by modern SOCs, leveraging advanced analytics to distill vast amounts of network and security data into actionable insights to empower security analysts to better prioritise and respond to threats more effectively.

One of the standout features of SOC Insights is its ability to mitigate alert fatigue by consolidating hundreds of thousands of security alerts into a dramatically smaller, more manageable set of insights. (One customer reported over half a million alerts resulting in only 24 insights.) By applying AIdriven analytics to DNS activity, asset information, DNS threat intelligence, and security events, SOC Insights

correlates those events, prioritises them based on many factors beyond typical malware risk rankings, and provides recommendations for swift resolution. This not only accelerates threat detection and response but also alleviates the strain on overburdened SOC analysts.

Moreover, SOC Insights plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between security and networking teams, offering enhanced visibility into network activity. Networking teams benefit from improved DNS and network stability and resilience as BloxOne Threat Defense identifies and addresses threats at the DNZS layer. Furthermore, SOC Insights identifies configuration errors, high-risk activity, and other behaviors helping organisations fortify their security posture and mitigate risks proactively.

The impact of SOC Insights extends beyond immediate benefits, contributing to a proactive security stance. Leveraging DNS intelligence,

organisations can reduce the risk of C2 and malware in attacks by a staggering 92%, as revealed by the Cybersecurity Directorate at the NSA. And hunted DNS intelligence helps disrupt attack infrastructure, often composed of tens of thousands of domains, enabling customers to block many attacks even 2-3 months before threat actors actually launch attacks using those domains. This proactive approach not only mitigates breaches but also fosters a healthier work environment for security analysts, combating burnout and bolstering retention rates.

In addition to its formidable capabilities, SOC Insights revolutionises the broader security ecosystem. By sharing AI-driven insights and other relevant data with other security tools, SOC Insights maximises the ROI of existing security investments and enhances the effectiveness of the entire security stack. This collaborative approach strengthens defenses, empowers organisations to stay ahead of emerging threats, and augments the overall security posture.

In conclusion, SOC Insights represents a transformative leap forward for the SOC, empowering security teams to navigate the complex threat landscape with confidence and agility. By harnessing the power of AI-driven analytics, organisations can reinforce their cybersecurity defenses, streamline operations, and safeguard their digital assets against evolving threats. As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, SOC Insights stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience in the fight against cyber adversaries.

HOW CAN CDAOs CREATE A STRONG BRAND FOR THEIR ROLE?

DEBRA LOGAN, DISTINGUISHED VP ANALYST AT GARTNER, DELVES INTO STRATEGIES FOR CHIEF DATA AND ANALYTICS OFFICERS (CDAOS) TO ESTABLISH A ROBUST BRAND FOR THEIR ROLE.

Chief data and analytics officers (CDAOs) cite their influence on other executives as key to success, but, but they are not always seen as equals in the C-suite peers. CDAOs must establish a strong, differentiated, personal role-based brand to be accepted as true C-level executives. To create a strong and successful brand, CDAOs should follow these recommendations.

Clarify the Mission and Role of the CDAO As A C-Level Executive

The mission and function of the CDAO role are still not clear in many organisations. According to a Gartner survey only one-third of organisations report that the CDAO function is well-established and successful. Many organisations do not fully understand the role of CDAOs and there is a lack of clarity about their responsibilities and deliverables.

The CDAO’s role is not a straightforward one. Some come from a technology background, some from a business background. In fact, the CDAO’s role spans technology and business, acting as a bridge or a liaison between the two. The CDAO must brand (or rebrand) themselves and their teams by understanding first how they are currently perceived and whether or not that perception serves them. Then, they must identify their current brand through the actions and words of others as well as their own assessment of their brand. It is relatively easy to do, but it requires courage and time.

Develop a Strong Differentiated Value Proposition

The CDAO should clearly communicate their responsibilities. Instead of trying to do everything, they should focus on the core areas until they are well-established. The Chief Data and Analytics Officer (CDAO) must transition from being a generalist to becoming an expert in strategic business alignment. This involves creating and implementing a data and analytics strategy that supports the overall goals of the business.

The CDAO is also responsible for overseeing all data and analytics initiatives, promoting collaboration between them, and providing support when necessary to achieve efficiency and promote best practices. They are also responsible for ensuring the governance and quality of data.

Additionally, the establishing a programme to improve data literacy among employees and leading to a shift in mindset and behavior towards making data-driven decisions is also one of the key responsibilities of a CDAOs.

Establishing a Link Between the Business and the Technology Function That Focuses on DataEnabled Business Outcomes

Although CDAOs are responsible for achieving enterprise results through data and analytics, they cannot do so alone. As the purpose of data and analytics is to facilitate business outcomes, business leaders must also take responsibility for the data they generate, use, and, to some extent, control.

CDAOs should shift from being viewed solely as a technical or business role to one that encompasses technical, data, and business disciplines. They should identify potential internal and external stakeholders by utilising an organisational stakeholder matrix. Engage these stakeholders with a stakeholder assignment map and prioritise the allocation of limited resources towards the most significant ones. Map out existing connections within the organisation and find opportunities to expand organisational networks.

Gartner analysts will be discussing more topics related to data and analytics at the Gartner CIO & IT Executive Conference, taking place November 19-21, 2024 in Dubai, UAE.

EXPANDING HORIZONS

FISSAL OUBIDA, GENERAL MANAGER - MIDDLE EAST, AFRICA AND INDIA, LEXAR SHARES INSIGHTS ON THE COMPANY’S STRATEGIC EXPANSION IN AFRICA, HIGHLIGHTING MARKET GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES.

What is Lexar offering to the African market?

Lexar is highly focused on strengthening its presence in the continent and building a strong distribution network across Africa. The recent distributor partnerships we signed in Morocco perfectly align with our growth strategy in Africa and allow our customers greater accessibility to Lexar’s innovative solutions.

We are offering our latest memory products that offer the perfect combination of high speed and massive capacities. Whether it’s to store photos, videos, music or important files and other data, we have products that address all these needs while being compatible with laptops, desktop computers, smartphones or tablets.

During Gitex Africa 2024, we showcased the world’s fastest memory solutions with massive capacities, including the CFexpress Type A card and its latest high-performance gaming DRAM. We also displayed our blazing-fast gaming DRAM, ARES RGB DDR5, which clocks in at 8400MT/s and with timing as low as CL40.

How important is Africa for your business and what is the volume of business growth you anticipate in this region over the next few years?

Africa is undoubtedly one of the most important markets for Lexar and we are committed to serving the continent with our latest innovations in memory and storage solutions. We at Lexar believe that Africa is the future – thanks mainly to its young, tech-savvy population who are eager and ready to embrace new technologies across spheres.

Over recent months, we’ve entered into strategic partnerships with key resellers in Africa to ensure that our award-winning products are easily available to consumers in the major markets of Africa.

What are the biggest challenges and opportunities of doing business in Africa? Africa’s burgeoning economies present exciting opportunities for growth and expansion in a range of sectors. However, Africa also has its share of challenges –from finding skilled labour, lack of access to consistent electricity, high cost of securing capital to difficult regulatory landscapes and supply chain challenges.

Africa serves as a realm of promising opportunities intermingled with formidable challenges. Businesses that embark on this transformative journey, fortified by strategic insights and a resolute spirit, can carve out success stories, which is precisely what Lexar is focused on achieving.

To what extent can the governments of African countries support and accelerate the continent’s tech industry?

Reports indicate that Africa could secure tech startup funding of more than $90bn by 2030, if policymakers pursue significant reforms to drive growth. To achieve this goal, governments in Africa need to enable more tech financing, cultivate the business environment and strengthen networks.

Governments should also provide a platform on which investors can access

reliable information about tech startups to reduce information asymmetries. The near absence of credible public databases on African startups increases the costs of transactions and due diligence while reducing investor confidence and diminishing financing inflows to tech innovators.

Several governments in Africa have already taken decisive measures to support and accelerate the tech sector and facilitate intellectual property protections, funding access and other incentives to new businesses.

What industry verticals in Africa are you targeting and why?

Gaming in particular is a segment Lexar is looking to tap into given its immense potential in Morocco and beyond. Young Moroccan consumers have begun to recognize the importance of reliable hardware that will also allow them to upgrade as the need arises, and portable data storage products are a vital part of this mix. As an industry, it is therefore equally important that we continue to innovate and address emerging market requirements.

Global funds have invested massively in African startups recently. How do you see the market behaving in the next five years and in which ways that will influence the investments in the region? In the broad context of global innovation and entrepreneurship, Africa’s startup ecosystem emerged as a beacon of promise and potential. Over the past decade, the African continent witnessed a major surge in entrepreneurial dynamism. Although there was a slowdown in funding from last year due to various factors, the key for startups in the coming years is resilience. Despite facing adversities, African startups are debunking the myth that growth is the sole metric of success. They are proving that creativity, community, and strategic decision-making are indispensable elements not only for survival but also for thriving in the face of challenging economic circumstances. The African Startup Ecosystem is currently in its nascent stages and is still poised to grow significantly in the coming years.

STRATEGIC CYBER DEFENCE

AVINASH CHANDER, SENIOR TERRITORY MANAGER, APAC & MEA, AVAST BUSINESS OUTLINES THE COMPANY’S COMPETITIVE EDGE AND STRATEGIES FOR MEETING EVOLVING CYBERSECURITY

DEMANDS AND ITS MIDDLE EAST EXPANSION PLANS.

How do you perceive the current landscape of antivirus companies in the market, and what sets Avast Business apart from its competitors?

The antivirus market is highly competitive, with many companies offering a range of cybersecurity solutions. Avast Business distinguishes itself through its emphasis on proactive threat detection, user-friendly interface, and scalable solutions suitable for businesses of all sizes.

Its strength lies in its advanced threat detection capabilities, comprehensive endpoint protection, network security, and data protection solutions. Easy deployment, centralised management, and innovative technologies make it a preferred choice for businesses worldwide.

What sets Avast Business apart from competitors is that innovation is a priority, ensuring its products stay ahead of emerging threats in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

Could you elaborate on the role of antivirus solutions within the broader context of cybersecurity, and how Avast Business addresses the evolving threats in today’s digital environment? Antivirus solutions are critical components within the broader scope of cybersecurity. Theyserve as the first line of defence against a myriad of digital threats, functioning to detect, prevent, and eliminate malicious software like viruses, malware,

ransomware, and phishing attempts. Antivirus solutions role is to fortify the overall state of cybersecurity readiness of both organisations and individuals. In the contemporary digital landscape, characterised by continually evolving cyber threats, Avast Business adopts several strategies to effectively counter these challenges:

1Advanced

Threat Detection: Avast Business employs sophisticated threat detection mechanisms, including machine learning algorithms, behaviour analysis, and cloud-based threat intelligence. By leveraging these cutting-edge technologies, Avast can swiftly identify and neutralise emerging threats in real-time, ensuring proactive protection against novel attack vectors.

2Comprehensive Endpoint

Protection: Avast Business offers holistic endpoint protection solutions spanning diverse platforms such as desktops, laptops, and servers. This multi-layered defence approach shields endpoints from a wide array of threats, including malware, ransomware, and zero-day exploits, safeguarding critical assets, and preserving operational continuity.

3Network

Security: Avast Business provides robust network security solutions designed to fortify the integrity of organisational networks. These solutions encompass intrusion detection and prevention systems, network segmentation, and real-

time traffic monitoring capabilities, bolstering resilience against external intrusions and unauthorised access attempts.

4Data

Protection: Avast Business prioritises the protection of sensitive data by furnishing encryption, access control, and data loss prevention mechanisms. By safeguarding data integrity and confidentiality, Avast empowers organisations to comply with regulatory requirements and mitigate the risks associated with data breaches.

Through these strategies, Avast Business provides a strong defence for organisations against the evolving threat landscape by combining advanced threat detection, comprehensive endpoint protection, network security, and data protection protocols. By remaining vigilant and adaptive to emerging threats, Avast ensures that its clientele is protected against the dynamic challenges of modern cybersecurity.

With the increasing focus on cybersecurity, what trends are you observing in terms of market demand for antivirus solutions, and how is Avast Business positioned to meet these demands?

Cybersecurity has become a top priority for organisations and this is reflective of the current digital times. With the rise of remote work, keeping digital assets safe from cyber threats has become more critical than ever before.

As more people work from various locations using different devices like laptops, desktops, and smartphones, there’s a pressing need for reliable endpoint protection solutions. These solutions act as guardians, defending devices against cyber-attacks that could compromise sensitive information. To meet this demand, many organisations are turning to cloud-native antivirus solutions. These solutions offer scalability, flexibility, and simplified management, making them ideal for businesses of all sizes.

There is also a growing trend towards integrated security suites.

These suites not only provide antivirus protection but also include other essential cybersecurity features like network security, threat intelligence, identity and access management, and patch management. By bundling these functionalities together, organisations can streamline their cybersecurity efforts and enhance their overall protection against threats.

In the face of ever-evolving cyber threats, antivirus solutions are also evolving. They now boast advanced threat detection capabilities, thanks to technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and behavioural analysis. These innovations enable antivirus software to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals, helping organisations stay secure in today’s digital landscape.

Avast Business is directly positioned to meet these demands offering advanced endpoint protection against malware and ransomware through its multilayered defence approach. Additionally, its cloud-based management console simplifies deployment and management,

while integrated security solutions provide holistic protection, including advanced threat detection using cuttingedge technologies like machine learning and behavioural analysis.

By offering a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity solutions that address the key trends shaping the antivirus market, Avast Business is well-equipped to help organisations enhance their security posture and effectively mitigate the risks posed by evolving cyber threats.

As an emerging vendor, how does Avast Business aim to influence market dynamics in the Middle East, and what strategies are in place to expand its footprint in the region amidst existing competition?

As an emerging vendor, Avast Business is strategically positioned to influence market dynamics in the Middle East through several key strategies:

1Avast Business recognises the importance of understanding the unique cybersecurity challenges and cultural

nuances of the Middle East region. By adopting a localised approach to product development, marketing, and customer support, Avast aims to tailor its offerings to meet the specific needs of Middle Eastern businesses and consumers.

2Avast Business seeks to forge strategic partnerships and alliances with local distributors, resellers, and technology partners in the Middle East. By collaborating with established players in the region, Avast can leverage its expertise, networks, and market insights to expand its reach and market presence.

3Avast Business invests in marketing initiatives and awareness campaigns to educate businesses and consumers in the Middle East about the importance of cybersecurity and the value of Avast’s solutions. By raising awareness and highlighting its unique value proposition, Avast aims to attract customers and gain market share in the region.

4Avast Business places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and support. By delivering superior customer service and support experiences tailored to the needs of Middle Eastern customers, Avast aims to build trust and loyalty, driving customer retention and advocacy in the region.

5Avast Business remains committed to innovation and product development, continuously enhancing its cybersecurity solutions to address the evolving threat landscape and meet the changing needs of Middle Eastern businesses. By offering cutting-edge technologies and solutions, Avast aims to differentiate itself from competitors and drive adoption in the region.

Overall, by adopting a localised approach, forging strategic partnerships, investing in marketing and awareness, prioritising customer satisfaction, and focusing on continuous innovation, Avast Business aims to expand its footprint in the Middle East and influence market dynamics amidst existing competition.

HOW TO DIGITALLY TRANSFORM AND RE-ENGINEER YOUR ENTERPRISE POSITIVELY, WHILE AVOIDING A RUNAWAY SITUATION

PRASHIL GAREEB, VICE PRESIDENT OF MANAGED NETWORKING AND COLLABORATION SERVICES AT NTT DATA

MEA ADVISES ENTERPRISES TO PLAN FOR DIGITAL

TRANSFORMATION IN A POSITIVE WAY BY PROACTIVELY SELECTING THE MOST SUITABLE BUSINESS USE CASE, OPTIMAL TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORKING ARCHITECTURE AND LEVERAGING THE MOST APPLICABLE BEST PRACTICES.

All industries are being impacted by digital transformation and so will your enterprise. The question is do you want to manage the transformation and disruption in a positive way or do you want to risk a runaway and failed situation.

Today digital transformation requires a step-by-step process of selecting the business area to be transformed, identifying the best suited use cases, the overall approach and digital platform to be selected, the enabling network architecture, and understanding some of the best practices.

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), hyper-automation,

metaverse and spatial computing, are some of the transformative technologies that are disrupting organisations in a positive manner.

All these technologies can help enterprises to make better-informed decisions, and proactively improve their operations. One of the fastest business returns is to automate repetitive human operations, which in turn allows these human resources to be redeployed in other value generating roles and positions.

Here are some of the leading use cases today:

Managing large data sets

AI and ML enabled analysis of large volumes of data can provide insights

into customer behaviour, market trends and operational inefficiencies, which are useful for business. In the past with limited compute power, lack of algorithms and data structures, these patterns that would have been impossible to detect using legacy tools by humans.

Process improvements

Continuous repeated iterations and machine learning can build on AI-driven insights to improve the functioning of the supply chain and improve customer service, for example. In manufacturing and other industrial and engineering environments, asset management, predictive maintenance, safety and security can be improved by integrating AI or machine learning with operational technology to automatically control and manage critical systems and equipment.

Spatial computing

This gives enterprises a better understanding of their physical environment. Retailers can analyse customer footfall patterns in their stores, optimising the type of products displayed and their placement and orientation, while improving customer experience. Spatial computing also helps in asset tracking, supply-chain optimisation and other logistical challenges.

Hyper-automation

This can help enterprises streamline

processes, reduce the need for low cost human workforce, while raising the efficiency. Enterprises can save time and effort by automating tasks such as data entry, document processing and customer service. This can lead to improved productivity and cost savings. However, technologies do not function in a vacuum and careful selection of the networking platform and architecture by the enterprise is the next consideration.

Platform selection

The first challenge is selection of the right platform and networking infrastructure. There are multiple choices that can help the above disruptive digital technologies to perform. These include low-latency, software-defined and cloud-ready networks, edge- or cloud-computing resources, and reliable data storage. The choice depends on the needs of the business applications and the buildup of workloads on the campus network architecture. The typical requirements for the network architecture are that they need to be scalable and available enough to manage local processing and remote data processing, as well as storage commands.

Edge computing

You will choose a network architecture that facilitates edge computing if your business applications need to process data closer to the source of the data. Applications that need to process in real time or those network architectures that have limited bandwidth to support back and forth Internet commands will opt for edge computing networks.

Cloud computing

When application workloads require large data structures, or the need to aggregate date for processing, or require high compute power on remote servers, or require continuous Internet access, the network architecture will be built to facilitate cloud computing.

Private 5G, Wi-Fi networks

If the business operates in an operational technology environment, then there are multiple wireless and mobile technologies available to build the network architecture.

Private 5G is a relatively new platform and provides high reliability, low latency, high bandwidth, and is good for high compute workloads that processes data in real time. These are typically industrial control systems and highly automated systems.

Wi-Fi on the other hand is an established technology, it is widely available, and it is cost-effective, making it a suitable choice for workloads that demand continuous mobility and flexibility. Such requirements are demanded by logistics and warehousing environments.

Tips to get started

Here are various best practices and tips to get started:

• Evaluate your current infrastructure and identify gaps that can be addressed by upgrading hardware, software, new security solutions.

• Ask yourself if establishing partnerships with vendors, service providers and channel partners can be effective.

• What will help is to draw up a clear roadmap and strategy for improving infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance and support contracts.

• Consider factors such as security, scalability and interoperability and research tools available.

• Currently, implementing technologies like AI, and machine learning are expensive and time-consuming.

• Currently AI, and machine learning are a deterrent for smaller businesses with limited budgets.

• However, AI, and machine learning are becoming more prevalent, and will become more streamlined and costeffective over time.

• Work with experienced service providers to select tools that suit your business goals and your budget.

Skills crunch

Introduction of new platforms and new technologies are going to put internal stress on organisations if they do not have suitable and sufficient certified resources on-board. The typical way forward is to build trusted relationships with a local channel partner. If an organisation wants to leapfrog and move faster, the way forward is to adopt an outsourcing model with a certified managed services provider.

Introduction of AI and automation tools can help reduce the time and money spent on repetitive manual operations, which can be automated. This will free up human resources to be upskilled and applied for process re-engineering, process automation and data training.

Remote workers are another way to add skilled resources to an organisation, reducing the skills gap, accelerating adoption, and reducing the cost of change management. The continuous innovation taking place in collaboration and workflow tools is helping to reduce concerns about productivity of remote workers and remote teams. There are also monetary returns to be gained by reducing the amount of rented office space and travel required by workers.

Moving forward, with AI underlying the next set of technology and innovation cycles, it is necessary to be cognizant of the higher carbon footprint of these new platforms.

Transforming enterprises need to become sensitive to these associated emissions and must enter into dialogue with their channel partners and service providers during the early stages of discussion. They must ensure that transparency of carbon footprints exist around their upcoming plans for digital transformation, which are also an important consideration.

AI-POWERED OBSERVABILITY

MENA MIGALLY, REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT – EMERGING EMEA AT RIVERBED PROVIDES INSIGHTS INTO THE NEW AI-POWERED OBSERVABILITY PLATFORM.

Can you provide an overview of Riverbed’s new AI-powered observability platform and the key features that differentiate it in the market?

This launch is possibly one of the largest in a decade, if not the largest. With a decade of experience in the industry, I can confidently say its generating significant interest across the market. We’ve made substantial R&D investments, over a couple of years, particularly since the inception of what we fondly refer to as IQ or Riverbed IQ. Our goal was to deliver a comprehensive

platform capable of collecting extensive telemetry and data from customers’ environments, analysing it, and ultimately not only presenting and visualising it but also taking action. This seamless interaction with data aims to ensure a perfect digital experience for both internal and external customers. The platform has evolved into a complete solution, boasting not only extensive data collection capabilities but also AI-driven automation. This automation streamlines the process of collecting and analysing data, swiftly identifying issues and providing actionable insights and recommendations.

In many cases, the platform can also

autonomously heal and remediate issues, providing automated actions to swiftly resolve performance-related problems.

What motivated Riverbed to invest in developing its new AI-powered observability platform and related solutions?

Observability has shifted from a mere convenience to an essential requirement due to the paramount importance of customer experience. Whether it’s banking, retail, or workplace tools, a deficient user experience can swiftly lead to negative repercussions, such as customer churn and damage to the brand’s reputation. This underscores the criticality of prioritising digital experience in today’s landscape. Despite longstanding IT complexity, the introduction of SaaS applications and public cloud hosting has significantly compounded the challenge. Modern IT organisations are tasked with managing not only in-house environments but also navigating the complexities of integrating SaaS and cloud solutions. This rapid escalation in complexity poses a considerable obstacle to delivering seamless experiences while ensuring operational efficiency. Balancing the aspiration for perfect user experiences with the reality of managing intricate IT ecosystems remains a key challenge for organisations seeking to thrive in today’s digital landscape.

We aim to bridge the gap between IT complexity and optimal digital experiences by providing a comprehensive platform. This involves monitoring the intricate and ever-changing IT landscape, leveraging observability and artificial intelligence (AI) operations. By moving beyond static monitoring and integrating AI-Ops, we

enhance our ability to understand and address issues proactively. This helps to mitigate knowledge gaps and enables us to deliver timely solutions, leading to improved customer and end-user experiences. Ultimately, our goal is to align IT operations with business outcomes, focusing on performance and observability to ensure seamless digital experiences.

How do you anticipate these new solutions will empower organisations to optimise digital experiences and drive operational efficiency in highly distributed environments?

With the introduction of our new engine variable IQ 2.0, we’ve revolutionised our approach to AI-Ops. This is designed to rapidly learn from both customer data and experiences, leveraging the wealth of insights accumulated by Riverbed over the years. By harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence, we’ve created a system that can swiftly analyse complex data sets, identify issues, and recommend solutions with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

One of the key benefits of our AI-driven approach is the significant reduction in resolution time. Traditionally, resolving IT issues often required highly skilled professionals to manually sift through vast amounts of data and follow intricate runbooks to diagnose and address problems. However, with IQ 2.0, we’ve streamlined this process by automating much of the analysis and decisionmaking. This means that problems can be identified and resolved in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Moreover, our AI-driven approach also minimises the need for human intervention in routine tasks. Instead of spending valuable time on repetitive tasks like sorting through alerts or troubleshooting minor issues, IT professionals can focus their attention on more strategic initiatives that drive business value. This ensures that organisations can make the most of their skilled workforce, leveraging their expertise where it matters most. By combining cutting-edge technology with human expertise, we’re able to deliver comprehensive solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern businesses. Our approach enables organisations to

optimise their IT operations, improve the reliability and performance of their systems, and ultimately deliver a superior experience to end-users. With IQ 2.0, we’re empowering organisations to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly complex and dynamic IT landscape.

What were the challenges faced in the development of this platform?

Our solution’s premise revolves around collecting high-fidelity telemetry data across the entire IT stack consistently. This foundational approach ensures that we capture critical insights from every corner of the IT environment. As IT landscapes continue to evolve rapidly, it’s crucial for us to adapt and expand our data collection capabilities accordingly. For instance, the emergence of zero-trust networks in response to the growing public cloud landscape presented a significant challenge for traditional monitoring tools due to their black-box architecture. However, we’ve developed solutions to effectively monitor and collect data within zero-trust architectures, ensuring visibility and insight into these environments. Additionally, the proliferation of mobile devices has introduced complexities in data collection, given the diverse technologies and operating systems involved. Overcoming this challenge required organic growth and strategic acquisitions to establish collection points for mobile telemetry data. Our latest announcement underscores our commitment to enhancing data collection capabilities, enabling us to stay ahead of the curve amidst the evolving complexities of IT environments. By continually innovating and expanding our data collection capabilities, we ensure that our solution remains at the forefront of addressing the dynamic challenges posed by modern IT landscapes.

How do you ensure the robust security measures are in place, especially when dealing with AI-driven features?

Security is paramount, especially in the realm of AI. It’s essential to clarify that we don’t engage with the exposed side of AI, such as generative AI, which can pose security risks. Instead, our focus is on causal AI, which operates based on

customer data within their environment, ensuring a cohesive and secure approach. Customer information remains confidential and is not shared beyond their premises.

Moreover, our platform undergoes rigorous security assessments conducted by our dedicated security team to comply with industry certifications. This is particularly crucial as many of our solutions are delivered via SaaS, necessitating adherence to stringent security standards. Compliance with these certifications is essential for us to serve critical sectors like banking and the public sector. Therefore, we diligently ensure that our platform meets all necessary security requirements and provide relevant certifications as needed.

Any future plans to introduce more such offerings?

The key aspect to remember is that our platform is designed to be open, allowing seamless interaction with various components across the customer’s environment. This openness is vital for effective integration with other solutions, whether they’re related to security, infrastructure monitoring, or other functionalities. Currently, we’re introducing capabilities to both collect and provide data to third-party elements, and we’re committed to further enhancing this interoperability to solidify our position as a comprehensive observability vendor. Our ongoing development efforts focus on expanding our collection capabilities, such as the recent additions of high-fidelity telemetry from zerotrust networks and mobile devices. Additionally, we’re continuously refining our AI-Ops functionality by incorporating customer feedback and leveraging insights from both Riverbed and the customer experience.

In essence, our development roadmap is robust, offering a clear vision for the future. We have a multi-year plan in place, which includes further enhancing our platform’s openness, expanding collection points, and advancing our AI-Ops capabilities. This comprehensive approach ensures that we continue to meet evolving customer needs and maintain our position as a leader in observability solutions.

WHY AND HOW TO GIVE OXYGEN TO YOUR GREATER RISK REDUCTION ECOSYSTEM

ARICK GOOMANOVSKY, VP OF TENABLE CLOUD SECURITY, EXPLAINS WHO IS PROTECTING YOUR ORGANIZATION’S CLOUD RESOURCES AND WHY IT’S NOT ENOUGH.

The distributed nature of the cloud is both a security blessing and a challenge. In an organisation, many people and roles — some obvious, some less so — are responsible for protecting cloud resources and the sensitive data stored in the cloud. Multiple teams and individuals make up the organisation’s internal “shared responsibility” model for cloud security. A collaborative approach is essential for protecting cloud resources effectively and at scale.

Protecting cloud resources – Who’s minding the store?

The functions most obviously responsible for protecting cloud resources are those with “security” in the title: cloud security leader, cloud security architect, cloud security engineer, cloud architect or security analyst – to name a few. These roles directly own cloud security KPIs. They measure security performance and are themselves measured on it. They care about implementing the right tools and getting on top of elusive cloud risk. Their pain is acute; as survey after survey reveals, they are the ones atop a cloudy mountain yelling: Visibility! More visibility!

This is a challenging pursuit, rife with obstacles such as increasing cloud complexity, new attack vectors, and inconsistent security and compliance posture as Dev and Apps teams apply their own security practices to new assets, if at all. To reduce cloud risk, cloud security folk need to pull in others, effectively.

Who else is sharing responsibility?

Some other organisational functions that play an important role in cloud security include:

• Cloud Identity and Access Management (IAM) – Authorise access to the cloud environment, and are increasingly aware of unique security risks, especially around identities and trying to trim roles and permissions, getting rid of inactive users, and adhering to least privilege.

• Information Security/Cybersecurity –Responsible for overall security posture including for cloud. They may provide guidance and policies to ensure cloud resources are secured and aligned with internal security standards.

• DevOps/DevSecOps and Apps Development – Embed security controls and best practices as part of cloud software development and deployment processes.

• Compliance and Governance – Ensure that cloud resources meet regulatory requirements and internal policies. They can also be involved in auditing, reporting and ensuring cloud activities align with industry standards.

• Risk Management – Assess and manage risks associated with cloud adoption and usage. They often collaborate with other functions to identify vulnerabilities and develop risk mitigation strategies. Even more functions potentially share

responsibility for protecting organisational cloud resources, including IT operations, network teams, data protection teams and even vendor management, which assess cloud service providers’ security offerings and practices prior to purchase to determine if they measure up.

The

downside of so many security cooks

While all of them have a shared goal – protecting sensitive data, ensuring compliance and staying out of the headlines – every function approaches security from their own point of view, with their own goals, tools, expertise, and criteria. Could this disconnect be, ironically, causing risk? A recent study found coordination between IT and security teams to be difficult and timeconsuming.

Development and DevOps should benefit from security findings that can be fed back into the CI/CD pipeline. And there is a need to overcome the legitimate fear that recommendations from security tools may break something and alerts are not real. Cloud IAM teams applying a traditional approach lack tools to limit access as they know they should. Others may be applying on-prem practices, missing toxic combinations because the cloud operates differently. Risk Management and Incident Response teams are missing out on advanced risk analysis that spots vulnerabilities and anomalies across layers of cloud.

Unifying

internal shared responsibility

So what can be done? Cloud-Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) tools strengthen cloud security by unifying visibility, consolidating tools, automating monitoring, and integrating remediation. This shared responsibility provides better insights, fosters team collaboration, and enhances security posture. CNAPP aids DevOps with recommendations and developers with Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) scanning, encouraging security cooperation. Unified tools expedite threat identification and containment. Effective cloud security requires a collective effort, shared goals, and comprehensive risk assessments to prevent vulnerabilities and ensure robust protection of cloud resources.

One platform. One agent. One console.

NAVIGATING 5G-A EVOLUTION

DURING THE SAMENA LEADER’S SUMMIT 2024, MOHAMED MADKOUR, VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL MARKETING AND SOLUTION SALES FOR CARRIER NETWORKS AT HUAWEI, ELABORATED ON THE COMPANY’S 5G-A EVOLUTION JOURNEY AND THE BUZZ AROUND ITS IMMINENT LAUNCH.

Can you elaborate on the advanced stages of development for 5G-A and how Huawei is contributing to shaping its evolution?

In the past five years, 5G has seen remarkable success, not just in terms of deployment scale but also in the range of services adopted. This includes innovations like fixed wireless access, which has gained traction in the market. Now, there’s a strong drive in the region to elevate this success to the next level with 5G Advanced (5G-A).

5G-A represents a significant enhancement over regular 5G, offering speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, along with adding more dimensions to

the experience, for example, latency and reliability.

Currently, the 3GPP standard organisation is finalising the first release of 5G-A, indicating its imminent arrival.

Huawei has been deeply involved in this development journey, collaborating closely with standard organisations to finalise specifications and conducting extensive trials and pre-commercial deployments with numerous carriers across the region. This ensures that both the technical standards and Huawei’s readiness align with operators’ ambitions to lead in 5G-A deployment. With all stakeholders poised for advancement, the stage is set for the rollout of 5G-A, promising a new era of connectivity and technological advancement.

What is Huawei’s strategic approach and the key solutions it offers in the realm of 5G-A?

Huawei’s strategic approach to 5G-A revolves around safeguarding operators’ investments while offering cutting-edge solutions. One key aspect is ensuring that their equipment and platforms are 5G-A ready, a vision set in motion years ago. This readiness extends beyond radio interfaces to encompass various domains like transport and core networks.

The strategy aims to deliver not only superior performance but also intelligence and eco-friendliness, aligning with the industry’s sustainability goals. However, the ultimate goal is to translate this infrastructure excellence into compelling business opportunities.

Huawei facilitates these opportunities across diverse sectors, from consumer markets to broadband services and industrial applications. By bridging the gap between advanced infrastructure and business innovation, Huawei seeks to unlock the full potential of 5G-A for both operators and end-users alike.

With the promise of 10-gigabit speeds, how do you envision this transformative capability impacting industries and consumer experiences?

The advent of 10-gigabit speeds heralds a significant technological advancement, poised to reshape both consumer experiences and industrial landscapes. Beyond mere velocity, this transformative capability holds profound implications for various sectors.

In the consumer realm, the proliferation of high-speed connectivity catalyses a new era of digital engagement, underpinned by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Enhanced streaming quality, immersive 3D content, and AI-driven applications stand as hallmark offerings set to redefine user experiences. Moreover, the seamless integration of these technologies within smart homes underscores the imperative for reliability and responsiveness, transcending mere velocity considerations.

Conversely, within industrial contexts, the impact extends beyond accelerated downloads to encompass critical aspects such as uplink speed, reliability, and latency. Industries, particularly those reliant on real-time data transmission for processes like quality inspection, stand to benefit significantly. The convergence of highspeed, reliable connectivity with swift responsiveness opens avenues for heightened operational efficiency and innovation across various industrial verticals.

In essence, the advent of 5G-A represents not only a leap in speed but also a paradigm shift in reliability, responsiveness, and the transformative potential of connectivity across diverse domains.

Could you share insights into Huawei’s collaboration with regional operators in deploying and advancing 5G-A technology?

As mentioned earlier, Huawei’s collaboration with regional operators in deploying and advancing 5G-A technology has been extensive and impactful. Through numerous precommercial trials and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), Huawei has

forged strong partnerships with leading operators across Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and beyond.

Huawei is dedicated to supporting regional carriers in maintaining their leadership positions in the global arena of 5G technology. The collective enthusiasm and expertise in the region position it as a pivotal hub for the evolution of 5G-A.

Looking ahead, 2024 marks a significant milestone as it ushers in the commercialisation of 5G-A. Huawei remains committed to facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing among all stakeholders at the SAMENA Summit. Together, we are poised to harness the full potential of 5G-A technology and drive unprecedented progress and innovation.

Considering the anticipated commercial rollout of 5G-A in 2024, what are the key milestones and challenges Huawei anticipates in this pivotal year for next-generation connectivity?

Huawei anticipates a landscape filled with opportunities for advancement, however, along with these opportunities come areas that require collaborative effort and attention.

One key focus for Huawei is fostering collaboration across the ecosystem to fully realise the potential of 5G-A technology. While the technology serves as a foundation, its value is truly unlocked through applications and collaborative efforts.

Additionally, Huawei recognises the importance of addressing challenges related to content and terminal development. Collaboration in these areas will be essential for driving innovation and maximising the benefits of 5G-A.

Moreover, Huawei emphasises the critical need for talent cultivation in the era of 5G-A, cloud, and AI. Investing in talent development through initiatives like Huawei Academy and ICT competitions is vital for overcoming barriers to transformation and ensuring sustained technological progress.

IS IT REALLY COMPLEX TO ADOPT NEW TECH? YOUR NETWORK IS YOUR BIGGEST ALLY

JACOB CHACKO, REGIONAL DIRECTOR - MIDDLE EAST, SAUDI & SOUTH AFRICA, HPE ARUBA NETWORKING, HIGHLIGHTS THE ROLE OF NETWORKING AS THE PRIMARY ALLY IN NAVIGATING THE PERCEIVED COMPLEXITY OF ADOPTING NEW TECHNOLOGIES.

Today’s IT leaders are leaning into the power of disruptive technologies such as 5G, AI, and IoT to deliver new solutions that push the boundaries of how their businesses function and what they can offer. But such innovation can come at a price. Introducing new technology to an organisation expands its cyberattack surface and can add strain to legacy networks, slowing performance. This

puts pressure on already stretched IT teams and can dampen a business’s appetite to innovate, which, in turn, could damage its competitiveness and relevance.

It’s quite a conundrum. IT leaders must tread a fine line between the deployment of innovation-boosting tech and the management of increased cybersecurity risk.

HPE Aruba Networking answered this question by surveying over 2,000 global

IT leaders. As well as understanding how companies are currently balancing the two areas, we also wanted to test the level of awareness among IT leaders around the network’s ability to solve the conundrum — if the right architecture is in place.

The innovation imperative

You cannot argue with the fact that innovative businesses are successful businesses. Deloitte previously found that “organisations with a leading

innovation maturity were almost twice as likely as the average to have revenue increase by more than 20%.”

But to trailblaze and optimise, a business needs an open-minded approach to technology. As McKinsey senior partner Steve Van Kuiken pointed out in the Harvard Business Review, technological advancement makes it quicker and more cost-effective for businesses to conceptualise, test, launch, and scale new ideas and solutions. The result is a competitive edge.

The government plays a vital role in shaping the tech infrastructure, thus laying a strong foundation for businesses to adopt new tech and bring efficiencies in the way they operate. One of the best examples in the Middle East is the UAE’s confidence and resilience towards new and secure tech. The UAE leadership has shown its deep commitment to innovation and has made informed investments in building smart network infrastructure allowing the companies in the UAE to navigate the evolving threat landscape and build a resilient and secure digital future.

The prospect of strengthening business operations, employee experiences, and time-to-value of their company’s offerings is why IT leaders are so keen to deploy disruptive technologies. Tapping into new revenue streams is yet another reason –in fact, 95% of surveyed IT leaders agreed that digitisation is fundamental to their ability to unlock such streams in the next 12 months.

IT leaders are already making plans to unleash transformational digitisation, with 91% investing in or plan to invest in 5G, 89% in AI, and 88% in IoT. But while our survey showed high adoption of such disruptive tech, it also revealed a raft of roadblocks that are stopping IT leaders from realising the full potential of technological advancement.

The roadblocks revealed The demand for innovation has clearly led to an influx of cloud-based technologies. This, paired with global business trends like hybrid working, means that IT has even more users, devices, locations, applications, and

cloud services to manage. More to manage means more surface area to protect, and this is especially problematic in legacy network architecture where users and devices connect directly to the company’s network.

Are IT leaders able to handle this increased oversight, keeping rising cybersecurity risks at bay while rolling out new deployments?

Not really, as 55% admitted their teams are stretched to capacity, and 46% added that their business has already experienced a security breach because of disruptive technology. Combining these responses is perhaps unsurprising that 64% confirmed that their organisation’s willingness to invest in innovative technologies is being negatively impacted due to security concerns.

The challenge is inescapable: businesses must innovate to stay relevant and, to innovate, they must embrace next-gen technology. But their exposure to threats will increase when they do. So how can IT leaders effectively support further digital transformation without overlooking the growing risk? And where is the network in all this?

Solving the disconnect with a strong network

Many IT leaders are optimistic about the potential for an optimised network (i.e., that provides both protection and connectivity) to help them achieve safer transformation, with 60% believing the network can drive innovation and 64% seeing its connection to strengthened cybersecurity.

But while surveyed IT leaders are bringing in network-based security solutions to support innovation — between 84% and 90% plan to or have already deployed individual solutions like SD-WAN or Security Service Edge (SSE) — they are not yet reaping the rewards. Only 37% feel their network is capable of supporting the latest tech deployments, and a slightly higher number (47%) say it enables flexible enterprise security.

In part, this is because of the siloed approach businesses are taking to their network and security investments —

using too many add-on security solutions to fill vulnerabilities after each new tech deployment.

Our survey revealed that IT leaders aren’t taking advantage of a consolidated network structure that’s truly capable of supporting safe digital modernisation. This role is best filled by a unified Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solution, where security and networking siloes fall away, delivering an integrated, collaborative platform for crossfunctional teams to innovate within. The key is unification, as not all SASE solutions offer a single, tightly integrated platform to securely connect all users, devices, and applications across a globally distributed workforce.

With this architecture in place, security risks are better managed to take pressure off the IT team, network performance is smooth, and the employee experience is improved as a result. This efficient digital workplace is one primed for innovative thinking and agility, rather than being frozen by fear.

The journey towards navigating the innovation vs. risk conundrum is ongoing but this isn’t a complex challenge. The key takeaway here is the incredible opportunity that lies in front of IT leaders. Empowered by next-gen networking that provides the tools and solutions to both protect the organisation and liberate it to create great user experiences, the CTO, CIO, and CISO have the power to take their company to new heights.

UNVEILING SECURITY INNOVATIONS

ACRONIS CISO KEVIN REED DELIVERS STRATEGIC INSIGHTS ON THE CYBER THREAT LANDSCAPE, INNOVATIVE PRODUCT FEATURES, SIGNIFICANCE OF THE UAE DATA CENTRE, PARTNER DAY INITIATIVES, AND FUTURE-PROOFING AGAINST EMERGING THREATS.

Can you provide insights into the current cyber threat landscape in the Middle East and globally, and how it has evolved since last year?

The global cyber threat landscape, including the Middle East, has seen a surge in targeted ransomware attacks with double and triple extortion tactics and a focus on critical infrastructure.

We are seeing attackers getting focused on exploiting lack of strong authentication, making use of stolen credential procured via initial access brokers. Supply chain vulnerabilities are exploited too, and advanced social engineering methods - sometimes becoming “multichannel”, i.e., using various touch points with the victimlike email, SMS and phone and video calls - are used to bypass traditional

defenses. In the Middle East, energy and utilities sectors are primary targets for financially-motivated attackers followed by construction and marine industry. This, however, closely resembles the most prominent industries in the region, so it’s fair to say, that cyber criminals remain opportunistic, meaning they’ll attack anything they can attack. Limited cybersecurity awareness persists. Notably, the Acronis End-of-Year Cyberthreats Report reveals a 222% surge in email attacks during 2023. Compared to last year, attacks are more sophisticated and frequent, driven by financial motives, with increasing concern over nation-state cyber activities.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, recent observations from March 2024 reveal a significant uptick in malware detections, with figures reaching 29.1%, marking a substantial increase from 14% in October of the previous year. Additionally, there has been a noticeable rise in blocked URLs, reaching 25.5% in March, compared to 19.7% in October of the preceding year.

Acronis has been at the forefront of cyber protection innovation. Could you elaborate on the key features and benefits of your products such as MDR, XDR, EDR, and Acronis Cyber Protect?

Acronis Cyber Protect offers a comprehensive suite of features, including backup & disaster recovery,

cybersecurity defenses, and endpoint management. Managed Detection and Response (MDR) ensures 24/7 security monitoring, while Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) provides realtime threat detection. Benefits include streamlined security management, proactive threat detection, faster incident response, and improved compliance with data security regulations.

An example of Acronis XDR capability is detecting a cyber attack initiated by a user that opened a phishing email and compromised their credentials by combining the data from an endpoint, identity provider and email security solution. Automated remediation includes blocking the threat, removing phising emails from accounts of all users, and blocking the compromised user’s account.

The launch of the UAE Data Centre signifies a significant milestone for Acronis. What advantages does this data centre offer in terms of data sovereignty, compliance, and overall cybersecurity for businesses in the region?

The establishment of the UAE Data Centre stands as a significant milestone for Acronis, offering unparalleled advantages tailored to the needs of businesses in the region. Firstly, it addresses the crucial aspect of data sovereignty, enabling businesses to adhere to local data residency regulations by facilitating storage within the UAE. This initiative is particularly crucial in a market where the UAE Data Centre segment is projected to expand substantially, with estimates suggesting a remarkable growth from 429.34 MW in 2024 to 841.03 MW by 2029, indicating a robust CAGR of 14.39% during the forecast period.

Moreover, by housing their data in this local facility, businesses can bolster their compliance efforts, meeting stringent regional requirements for data security and privacy. Interestingly, the data

centre market in the UAE exhibits a notable trend, with Tier 3 data centres commanding a significant market share in 2023, while Tier 4 facilities emerge as the fastest-growing segment during the projected period.

How does Acronis plan to leverage the Partner Day event to strengthen partnerships and enable its partners to deliver security-empowered value and drive growth in their businesses?

Acronis is strategically leveraging Partner Day to fortify partnerships and empower partners to drive business growth through security-enabled value delivery. By offering comprehensive training and resources, partners gain in-depth knowledge of Acronis solutions, enhancing their ability to effectively serve clients.

In the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, how does Acronis ensure that its solutions remain ahead of the curve in providing comprehensive cyber protection for businesses and individuals?

To stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats, Acronis employs several strategic initiatives. Firstly, constant innovation through significant investment in research and development ensures the development of advanced security features to counter emerging threats effectively. Acronis maintains a proactive approach to threat intelligence, continuously monitoring the evolving threat landscape and adapting solutions accordingly to provide robust protection. Collaboration with leading cybersecurity experts and companies fosters knowledge-sharing and enables the development of cutting-edge solutions.

Can you share any success stories or case studies where Acronis Cyber Protect has effectively mitigated cyber threats and provided holistic protection for organisations? In cybersecurity, the biggest success

is the one nobody hears about because the threat was not realised. However, there was an instance where an Acronis customer, who was only using Acronis for backup and not for security, was attacked by a ransomware threat actor. The attacker managed to gain administrative privileges on the customer’s network and deployed ransomware, encrypting the entire virtualised infrastructure built on VMware.

The customer reached out to Acronis to expedite the recovery process. Utilising our large data shipment protocols, we dispatched a NAS device with the customer’s encrypted backups within 24 hours. By restoring locally, we avoided network saturation and delays, allowing the customer to bring their critical services back online within hours of receiving the NAS. Additionally, we provided on-site support through our Professional Services, sending a cybersecurity expert to assist with investigation and forensics analysis. This helped the customer reconstruct the intrusion timeline and identify the vulnerabilities that were exploited.

With backups scanned by antimalware, the customer had peace of mind, knowing the backup copies were free from malicious software and safe to use. This rapid recovery enabled the customer to meet their legal and contractual obligations even after the cyber-attack.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, what are Acronis’ future plans and initiatives to further enhance its cyber protection solutions and address emerging cybersecurity challenges?

As cyber threats evolve and become more complicated, protection requires integrating multiple tools and collecting data from various sources. Therefore, the future of Acronis’ cyber security is to extend the number of data sources for events and activities collected by Acronis XDR solution and add more automated remediation steps.

MAXIMISING GENAI IMPACT

KARL CROWTHER, VP OF MEA AT ALTERYX EXPLORES THE KEY CONSIDERATIONS, BUSINESS CASES, PREREQUISITES, INTEGRATION CHALLENGES, AND REGULATORY

ASPECTS

OF IMPLEMENTING GENERATIVE AI TO ENSURE EFFECTIVE AND RESPONSIBLE ADOPTION.

What are the key considerations that businesses should take into account when implementing GenAI to ensure maximum effectiveness?

There remains a lot of hype around how GenAI can be utilised to drive strategic innovation or create competitive advantages. Recent Defining the Enterprise of the Future research from Alteryx shows that AI innovations already enable operational efficiencies at a scale and speed that was previously out of

reach. In fact, 82% of UAE business leaders report that AI already impacts what their organisation can achieve. However, despite the treasure trove of data and AI technologies available to organisations, many cannot unlock the full potential of data to ensure it drives business value. With data at the foundation of AI, data literacy and command of data analytics are arguably some of the most important skills for unlocking AI’s full potential. When working with generative AI, it’s crucial to ask the right questions, understand

the shape of the data used to educate the model and be able to scrutinise any answers given by AI. That’s why business and tech leaders must build for the future now by developing the skills and using the available technology to ensure all departments can take advantage of this intelligence era.

Can you elaborate on the specific business cases or scenarios where GenAI is most likely to deliver significant benefits?

Generative AI offers the perfect capability for decision-makers with no data science skills to deliver insights via a natural language prompt. Research conducted by Goldman Sachs suggests that generative AI has the potential to increase the global GDP by as much as 7% and McKinsey research estimates that generative AI might contribute between $2.6 and $4.4 trillion annually to the global economy. By introducing new, intuitive and compelling ways for the business user— the accountant, the supply chain analyst, and the merchandising analyst—to solve critical challenges with data, GenerativAI puts the power of better decision-making at everyone’s disposal. Use cases include:

• HR automating the process of improving employee retention and satisfaction.

• Manufacturing and product management predict the best products to make and sell.

• Finance departments analyse financial data for trends and outliers and provide explanations that help understand financial performance.

• Retail understanding the habits and connections between products and all the buyer factors that influence the sale and automating the process of making predictive inventory decisions.

The beauty of AI is that its capabilities can be tailored to most vertical use cases. Generative AI can even be used to automatically ideate new ways to use generative AI.

Are there any prerequisites or preparations that businesses need to undertake before adopting GenAI to ensure successful implementation?

While many businesses remain optimistic about the potential of generative AI to advance their efficiency and productivity and upskill their teams, many still lack a clear strategy for the safe, responsible use of AI. Recognising that you can’t simply go from zero to generative AI success overnight is essential. It requires incremental steps to assess and improve analytics maturity, organisational readiness, and buy-in.

Aligning AI initiatives with the broader organisational strategy, culture, values, overall business objectives, and vision requires a structured approach that integrates key steps throughout the AI adoption process. As businesses plan their AI strategies, they must contemplate their analytics proficiency and business priorities to determine how and where to leverage the capabilities of generative AI for maximum impact.

The successful introduction of AI into an enterprise requires alignment on a shared vision of its business value and impact rather than launching various pilots across different departments. Success looks like a collaboration between senior management, business units, IT departments, and the selected teams leading the pilots to test new use cases.

Prioritising projects that showcase AI’s most immediate positive impact and benchmarking their effectiveness will enable AI to be scaled across the business at a faster pace. Showcasing how AI is impacting specific areas of the business or using smaller project examples to highlight where it could be used to inform decision-making on a larger scale enables the business to start small and, from there, begin to scale quickly.

As intelligent systems and AI increasingly become drivers of business growth, data literacy across every team is essential. Data literacy and command of data analytics are arguably some of the most important skills for unlocking the full potential of intelligent systems and AI. However, ethical, compliance and legal limitations must not be overlooked when deploying AI. Subsequently, robust data governance and ethics policies must be implemented to ensure responsible AI adoption.

How does GenAI integrate with existing technologies and systems within businesses, and what challenges may arise during integration?

Many companies remain at a crossroads as generative AI moves from hype to delivering business value. Generative AI has been pinned as the solution to many enterprise challenges, and many organisations are eager to harness its power. However, those companies that have not already democratised data and analytics at scale are facing a maze of complex implementation challenges. Companies looking to take advantage of Gen AI must accelerate the data journey to ensure the business can thrive in this ‘era of intelligence’. To do so, they need to ensure that the company’s data stack is AI-ready so the business can drive strategic innovation or create competitive advantages from AI. A few technology strategies to focus on are:

• Scalable and Flexible Data Storage Solutions: AI applications require vast datasets. AI will stress the volume, velocity, and variety of big data used in use cases, so scalable multi-cloud & hybrid solutions like data lakes or cloudbased storage are essential.

• Data Governance and Quality Control Mechanisms: High-quality data is a prerequisite for successful AI projects. This involves standardising data collection processes, establishing clear data ownership, and implementing tools for data cleansing and quality checks.

• Data Accessibility and Democratisation: Make data easily accessible to everyone without compromising security. This may include implementing selfservice data platforms (like Alteryx) that empower non-technical users to access and analyse data, fostering an environment where a wider group within the organisation can utilise AI.

With more leaders fostering environments where AI-derived, datadriven insights enhance workers’ decision-making, it’s crucial to focus on providing continuous education and training to ensure that the workforce is equipped to support AI initiatives.

Are there any regulatory or compliance considerations that businesses need to address when deploying GenAI in their operations?

The generative AI revolution represents one of the most groundbreaking innovations in recent technology history. However, a key aspect of navigating the world of AI is safely performing the task so the results are trustworthy and ethical. While there are clear risks to using generative AI and concerns around things like hallucinations, data privacy, security, bias and sovereignty, there are enormous upsides, too.

Unsurprisingly, the use of AI is becoming increasingly highly regulated. In addition to the EU’s AI Act, the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, in association with the US’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, recently published the first global guidelines for the secure use of AI. Global regulations like these serve as essential reminders of the risks associated with the use of generative AI and are the reason that many organisations are deploying it with appropriate caution and governance.

Recent research mirrors this sentiment. Nine in ten IT and business decision-makers globally (89%), believe that regulations and standards around AI usage (including the use of generative AI) should be developed within their sector and 91% reported that such policies would help businesses implement AI responsibly. While these are some significant concerns for business leaders, it is important to understand that regulation will give them confidence that their AI tools are designed to mitigate these risks. AI can provide the competitive edge that many companies need when used well, following regulations, and with the right guardrails in place to include practical checks on data quality, privacy, and governance.

By ensuring businesses of all sizes follow the same ethical, safe, and inclusive approach to engaging with this powerful technology, this necessary step of the AI evolution will build trust and accountability in future solutions.

Vertiv Unveils EndTo-End AI Power And Cooling Solutions

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) and High-Performance Compute (HPC) continue to disrupt the data centre landscape, Vertiv announced a new portfolio of high-density data centre infrastructure solutions to support the higher power and cooling requirements of AI. Now available across Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Vertiv 360AI is designed to accelerate AI deployments of any scale, with designs ranging from rack solutions for test pilots and Edge AI, to full data centres for AI model training.

AI and accelerated computing are driving unprecedented demand for power and cooling, with rack densities anticipated to reach up to 500kW per rack. As a result, power and cooling infrastructure design and deployment has become significantly more complicated. Vertiv 360AI provides a simple way to power and cool AI, with a complete portfolio of power, cooling, and service solutions that solve the complex challenges arising from the AI revolution. Vertiv 360AI solutions include validated designs and pre-engineered

Zebra Technologies Launches Fixed Industrial Scanner For AI Applications And Powerful 3D Sensors

solutions to provide the benefit of Vertiv’s deep expertise while eliminating design cycles.

Vertiv 360AI also features prefabricated modular solutions to enable customers to deploy AI without disturbing existing workloads and without consuming floor space. Initial Vertiv 360AI solutions can power and cool over 130kW per rack, and include designs optimised for retrofits.

Vertiv 360AI will be presented at Datacloud Global Congress (5-6 June, Cannes, France), and during the EMEA tour of the Vertiv AI Solutions Innovation Roadshow.

To learn more about Vertiv 360AI, visit the Vertiv AI Hub at www.vertiv.com/AI-emea.

Zebra Technologies Corporation introduced the FS42 fixed industrial scanner and 3S Series 3D sensors as it continues to power secure technology innovation around AI and industrial automation for the manufacturing industry to help increase operational efficiency.

The FS42 fixed industrial scanner comes equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) for faster performance when running AI deep learning-based tools. The FS42 will also feature Zebra Aurora Focus for fast set-up and deployment.

At upcoming industry events, Zebra will preview an AI deep learning-based anomaly detection tool on the FS42, demonstrating superior performance for assembly verification and defect detection applications.

Together with its new pixel application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), manufacturers and warehousing operators will benefit from faster decode times for select symbologies and gain significant performance enhancements for Zebra’s deep learning-based optical character recognition (DL-OCR) tool.

The high-resolution, high-speed 3S Series 3D sensors are plug-and-play ready with a power over ethernet (PoE) connection. They are enhanced with Zebra’s Aurora Design Assistant or Aurora Vision Studio to speed up development and bring 3D vision applications online quicker. Kits with Zebra’s 4Sight Series EV7 vision controller will also be available for multi-camera machine vision and deep learning applications on the factory floor.

The 3S40 sensor supports new use cases with a large field of view for the inspection and dimensioning of

larger, static objects, with a scanning area of up 1626 (width) x 1312 (depth) x 1280 (height) mm. The 3S80 sensor is ideal for accurate inspection and dimensioning of static or in motion objects, with a scanning area of up to 862 (width) x 567 (depth) x 442 (height) mm for the 3S80-4M, while the 3S80-4L scan area reaches to 2495 (width) 1836 (depth) x 2256 (height) mm.

The 3S80 provides highquality 3D data, colour information, and the ability to scan random movement in a picking application. The technology behind the 3S80 is patented, parallelstructured light technology which enables users to 3D scan whole areas of scenes with sub-millimetre resolution and accuracy, including those that are high-gloss, translucent or transparent.

Together, the 3S Series sensors can cover a range of use cases in manufacturing and logistics. These include electric vehicle battery surface inspection, automotive parts inspection, 3D measurement of angles in post-assembly inspection, volume measurement, box dimensioning and object sizes in logistics operations. As part of a picking solution, the 3S Series can support logistics palletising and depalletising, bin picking, and robotic picking for automotive assembly lines.

The first product launch demos and previews in Europe will take place at SPS Italia, 28-30 May. The Zebra Machine Vision team will be available to discuss these new solutions in person at UKIVA, 18-19 June, The Battery Show Europe, 18-20 June, and Vision, 8-10 October.

Siemon Expands Copper Connectivity System With Innovative New Solutions

Siemon announces the expansion of its UltraMAX copper connectivity system with innovative new products, designed to elevate network performance and versatility. Building on the success of UltraMAX’s initial launch, the latest additions include

UltraMAX 48-port patch panels in 1U flat and angled configurations, the UltraMAX Turbo Tool, and pre-terminated copper trunk cables. These additions are poised to deliver unparalleled connectivity and streamline installation processes.

UltraMAX empowers users to transcend conventional limitations, enhancing the performance of category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP systems. UltraMAX seamlessly integrates usability, quality, and top-tier performance into a sleek, modern design tailored to today’s dynamic requirements. The solution encompasses a comprehensive range of outlets, patch panels, and termination tools, empowering users to design, configure, and implement category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP network deployments with utmost flexibility. Featuring Siemon’s pioneering linear punch-down technology that guides and verifies correct conductor placement, UltraMAX outlets ensure fast and easy termination for users of all skill levels. This results in superior, consistent, and reliable terminations, reducing installation time and eliminating costly reworks.

The new UltraMAX 48-port patch panels are meticulously engineered to optimise space and efficiency. Available in flat and angled configurations, these panels enable users to maximise rack space while meeting stringent Category 6A Alien Crosstalk parameters. Crafted from high-strength steel with a scratch-resistant finish, these panels provide a durable foundation for critical network connections. Designed for significant space efficiency, they offer 48 ports in just 1U, minimising rack space utilisation while upholding strict Category 6A Alien Crosstalk standards. Customisable labels, colour-coded icons, and a magnified label holder simplify port identification and management, while removable rear cable managers ensure organised cabling and optimal performance maintenance. These panels are available as empty, kitted or loaded with outlets

The UltraMAX Turbo Tool is engineered for user-friendly efficiency, significantly reducing termination time for category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP UltraMAX outlets. Unlike traditional single-conductor punch-down tools, the Turbo Tool terminates all 8 conductors in a single action, enhancing productivity and ensuring reliable highperformance connections. Featuring a rotatable tool head for flexible cable entry and compliance with bend radius requirements, this tool is constructed from 16-gauge steel and high-impact resistant plastics for durability on job sites. Its ergonomic design includes a spring-loaded handle for comfortable one- handed operations, accelerating termination time by 15 per cent compared to traditional tools. The integrated safety latch secures handles for safe storage, and the replaceable cutting die extends the tool’s lifespan, ensuring flawless terminations across all category 5e, 6, and 6A UTP UltraMAX outlets. The tool supports terminations for UltraMAX hybrid, keystone, and panel-style outlets.

For more information, visit www.siemon.com/UltraMAX.

EVOLVING THREATS, EVOLVING SOLUTIONS

SUNIL PAUL, MD OF FINESSE, SHARES INSIGHTS FROM THE RSA CONFERENCE 2024

The annual RSA Conference (RSAC), recognised as the world’s premier cybersecurity event, concluded its 33rd annual gathering last month at the Moscone Centre in San Francisco. Artificial intelligence (AI) dominated the discourse this year, featuring prominently in nearly every presentation, panel discussion, and product showcased at the conference. In addition to AI, several other critical topics also captured the attention of cybersecurity professionals, including Identity & Access Management (IAM), Supply Chain Risk and Data Security.

Identity & Access management

With identity fraud becoming the favourite pathway of cybercriminals to meet their objectives, an extreme example being the data breach IAM services provider Okta suffered last year, identity management was a dominant theme at RSAC 2024. The event showcased AI identity solutions to combat AI-generated deep fakes and structuring user access management through biometric data analysis. Identity detection and response (IDR) products that provide protection of identities, entitlements, and the IAM systems were also in the spotlight.

Best-of-breed vs. Platform Approach: There’s a debate on the best approach for IAM solutions. Companies often use multiple identity and access management (IAM) platforms that don’t talk to each other. Lack of integration prevents the sharing of critical risk information between IAM platforms. Consolidating platforms comes at the cost of losing their functionality. An alternative approach could be an IAM fabric that integrates these best-of-breed tools for a more customised solution.

Focus on flexibility and integration: Adopting cloud computing and remote work makes managing access less black-

and-white and limits the visibility of who’s accessing what. Organisations need IAM solutions that adapt to evolving business needs, especially with the rise of cloud and mobile access.

Supply chain risk

With their complex web of dependencies, software supply chains are a significant target for attackers. Cyberattacks such as those executed against SolarWinds and its customers—and the exploits that take advantage of vulnerabilities such as Log4j—highlight weaknesses within software supply chains. This issue spans commercial and open-source software and impacts private and government enterprises.

At RSAC 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken unveiled the new U.S. International Cyberspace and Digital Strategy, which aims at aiding Software Supply Chain Security efforts, confirming the need to ensure that new software products and version releases are secure from threats.

Key software supply chain security themes discussed at RSAC 2024 included robust risk assessment by mapping dependencies and conducting thorough security assessments, securing third-party software dependencies through secure coding practices and regular audits, adopting a zero-trust architecture that emphasises continuous verification and least privilege access, and enhancing the security posture of open-source projects.

Software Bill of Materials (SBOMs), which list all the components used in a software product, were identified as a crucial tool for identifying vulnerabilities and managing risk in the software supply chain. Technologies like blockchain, AI and ML were also discussed as potential solutions for enhancing supply chain security.

Data security

Patching vulnerabilities promptly emerged as a critical theme. The Verizon DBIR 2024 report highlighted a concerning 180 per cent increase in the exploitation of vulnerabilities as the initial entry point for data breaches. The rise of cyberattacks exploiting vulnerabilities underscores the importance of having a proactive vulnerability management strategy. This includes regularly scanning systems, prioritising patches, and deploying them efficiently.

The conference highlighted the close relationship between AI and data security. AI models are only as secure as the data they’re trained on, and AI itself can pose security risks if not developed securely. Some of the critical issues that security professionals are grappling with include preventing and detecting accidental sharing of sensitive data with public AI tools, ensuring that sensitive data is not used to train AI models and that these models do not leak sensitive information, and leveraging AI to enhance data classification and threat detection for sensitive data.

Another topic that made its presence felt at the event was data security posture management (DSPM). Enterprise Strategy Group’s 2024 Technology Spending Intentions Survey showed DSPM as a top 10 data privacy and data protection priority for 2024. The increasing volume of data, expansive growth of cloud data, and advancing capabilities of malicious actors have added layers of complexity to data security and brought to the forefront DSPM’s role as a centralised platform for managing and mitigating data security risks as they evolve.

Overall, RSAC 2024 provided valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in cybersecurity.