Cato Networks has recently unveiled significant advancements to its cloud-based service access service edge (SASE) platform, specifically designed to facilitate the management and security of Internet of Things (IoT) and operational technology (OT) devices throughout complex, distributed networks. This newly introduced feature, known as Cato IoT/OT Security, is integrated within the Cato SASE Cloud Platform and offers a suite of security capabilities including device discovery, comprehensive classification, policy enforcement, and robust threat detection. These enhancements come as a critical response to the burgeoning presence of IoT and OT devices in modern enterprise networks. Many of these devices often lack integrated security features and frequently operate on outdated hardware and software, which poses significant vulnerabilities to enterprise security. The surge in deployment of such devices brings challenges like limited network visibility, complicated deployment processes, and the need to integrate various point solutions to enforce security policies and prevent potential cyber threats.
Addressing Key Security Challenges
Brian Anderson, the global field CTO at Cato Networks, points out that integrating multiple point solutions can be problematic as it often burdens IT teams with increased workloads and creates potential security gaps. Managing these disparate solutions typically requires additional resources and time, complicating the security landscape further. Cato Networks addresses these challenges by incorporating all essential functionalities—discovery, visibility, policy enforcement, and threat prevention—within its SASE platform. This consolidation not only reduces complexity but also mitigates operational overheads, providing a more streamlined and effective approach to IoT/OT security.
Analyst projections underline the urgent need for such advancements. According to Gartner’s estimates, by 2025, the majority of enterprises—over 85%—will have implemented more smart edge devices compared to traditional computing devices like laptops and smartphones. Additionally, IDC forecasts reveal that by the same year, the number of IoT devices will exceed 41 billion. These staggering figures highlight the growing necessity for robust security and management solutions capable of handling the increasing influx of IoT and OT devices. The integrated security solutions offered by Cato Networks thus represent a timely and vital innovation in the realm of enterprise cybersecurity.
Innovative Features and Capabilities
Cato IoT/OT Security introduces a variety of advanced features that significantly enhance the security and management of IoT and OT devices within enterprise networks. Key among these is the capability for device discovery and classification without requiring additional integration. This allows enterprises to gain complete visibility over all connected devices effortlessly. The granular access policy enforcement feature permits administrators to apply specific policies based on each device’s unique characteristics, such as type, manufacturer, and software version. Additionally, the platform offers advanced threat prevention mechanisms using DNS Security, intrusion-prevention systems (IPS), and next-generation anti-malware (NGAM) capabilities, thereby ensuring comprehensive protection against a wide array of threats.
An important aspect of Cato’s enhanced IoT/OT security is the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. These advanced tools enhance the accuracy of device discovery and classification processes, enabling the identification of essential device characteristics more precisely. By leveraging AI and machine learning, Cato Networks can offer a more detailed and accurate view of the IoT/OT environment, thereby eliminating potential security blind spots. This detailed visibility is critical for identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing effective security measures to protect the network.
Global Infrastructure and Seamless Integration
Cato Networks has recently introduced major improvements to its cloud-based service access service edge (SASE) platform, tailored for managing and securing Internet of Things (IoT) and operational technology (OT) devices across complex, distributed networks. The new feature, Cato IoT/OT Security, is integrated into the Cato SASE Cloud Platform and brings a range of security capabilities such as device discovery, thorough classification, policy enforcement, and strong threat detection. These updates address the rapid increase in IoT and OT devices within modern enterprise networks. Many of these devices often lack built-in security features and run on outdated hardware and software, creating significant vulnerabilities. The increase in the deployment of these devices introduces challenges like reduced network visibility, complex deployment processes, and the necessity to combine various point solutions to enforce security policies and prevent cyber threats. Cato’s enhancements aim to tackle these issues, ensuring that enterprises can better manage and secure their growing array of IoT and OT devices.
