Secure networking ensures that the network is available to perform its appointed task by protecting it from attacks originating inside and outside the organization.
Traditional thinking equates this to a handful of specific requirements, including user authentication, user device protection and point solutions. However, the move to convergence, together with greater workforce mobility, exposes networks to new vulnerabilities, as any connected user can potentially attack the network.
While most organizations focus on securing the application traffic, few put sufficient infrastructure focus beyond point solutions such as firewalls. To protect the total network, security must be incorporated in all layers and the complete networking life cycle.