Aryaka highlights network security challenges for industry

Aryaka has released a research report that highlights network security challenges facing the manufacturing industry, particularly around network visibility, cyber resilience, and application performance globally.

The report, conducted by GatePoint Research, indicates that manufacturing companies are struggling to achieve comprehensive network visibility and connectivity due to resource constraints and a growing skill gap in IT teams. It was found that many organisations, which often manage numerous networked facilities internationally, consider effective network security a strategic imperative.

According to the findings, a staggering 68% of respondents believe their IT teams are either understaffed or insufficiently trained to manage the growing complexity of their networks. Visibility, cited by 64% of respondents, was deemed critical to maintaining both security and operational efficiency in the global manufacturing landscape. Additionally, 54% of industry leaders prioritised secure access for remote teams and global sites.

Cost control and network simplification remain top priorities, with 50% of respondents emphasising the importance of these factors as they expand their operations into cloud and multi-cloud environments. Convergence of network and security solutions is perceived by these organisations as a strategic advantage, promising enhanced security, operational resilience, and a reduction in IT workloads.

Ken Rutsky, Chief Marketing Officer at Aryaka, commented on these findings, saying, "Manufacturers today are balancing rapid digital transformation with the demands of securing a distributed network infrastructure. This survey highlights the key areas where manufacturers seek support—especially in achieving network visibility, improving resource efficiency, and simplifying operations, as well as their readiness to address these challenges. Our Unified SASE as a Service offering is designed to address these needs, empowering customers to protect their organization, streamline operations, and secure global connectivity."

The report has practical relevance for manufacturing professionals, as exemplified by Lauridsen Group International (LGI), a global manufacturer that has implemented Aryaka's Unified SASE solution. Reid Kreimeyer, Senior Manager of IT Infrastructure and Operations at LGI, shared his satisfaction with the solution, stating, "We're excited to be able to secure user access on company machines and filter network and security traffic all the time, not just when they're inside of our office."

This comprehensive report offers actionable guidance for manufacturing leaders seeking to navigate the complex evolving landscape of network security, with an emphasis on visibility, resource management, and cybersecurity.