Adrian Johnson
TLDR:
- SASE revolution is gaining momentum with multiple vendors entering the space.
- Security focus at RSAC is still human-centric, despite the rise of machine-to-machine interactions.
For cybersecurity software vendors attending RSA Conference, the event provides valuable insights and opportunities to strengthen their product roadmaps. At RSAC 2024, several key observations were made that can help shape the future of cybersecurity:
Observation 1: The SASE Revolution
The SASE revolution is rapidly evolving, with a significant increase in single-vendor SASE providers. The breadth of SASE functions is expanding, leading vendors to showcase extended capabilities such as Email Security, Enterprise Browsers, and XDR. Recommendations for vendors include developing a SASE strategy, exploring verticalization options, and partnering for new capabilities.
Observation 2: Human-Centric Security
Despite the growth of machine-to-machine interactions, security discussions at RSAC were still predominantly human-centric. The rise of non-human users, such as IoT devices, APIs, and AI tools, highlights the need for vendors to focus on non-human connectivity and security needs in their roadmaps.
Observation 3: GenAI Adoption
Employees are increasingly using Generative AI tools, but awareness of AI quality and security issues is limited. Vendors should form AI quality and security task teams to manage integrations of AI and address the exponential adoption of AI tools by users.
Observation 4: Demand for Deep Packet Inspection
Deep packet inspection (DPI) is in high demand due to the growth of SASE platforms and zero trust principles. Vendors should focus on gathering and correlating traffic insights from multiple sources to enhance security and support AI initiatives.
Observation 5: Threat Detection and Response
RSAC showcased AI-enhanced XDR innovations, with vendors looking to enhance threat detection capabilities. Integrating XDR into solutions can enhance value propositions and meet zero trust demands.
Overall, the key takeaways from RSAC 2024 point towards a growing focus on SASE, non-human security needs, AI adoption, DPI, and threat detection. Vendors should consider these observations in their product roadmaps to stay competitive and address evolving cybersecurity challenges.
