BYOD security debate rumbles on

A report issued recently by analyst firm Garter confirms worldwide security software revenues reached $19.2bn in 2012 compared to $17.7bn in 2011. As the BYOD debate rumbles on, are firms prepared to increase their security outlay to ensure employees own devices are safe?

The rise of employees using their own tablets, phones and laptops has meant companies need to consider their company security. Should a device be left on the train home or local coffee house, without the necessary security encryption, a company’s security could be breached and once it is breached, the BYOD debate really kicks off.

So can a company really afford to allow its employees to bring their devices to work? Of course, but only if strict security guidelines are followed and of course, regularly updated. There is no point rolling out a security programme, ensuing your employee has the relevant software on all their devices to find that the contract lapsed a month ago? Companies need to ensure their IT departments are constantly on top of their security and of course, ensure employees are willing to work with them to ensure the safety of company files and information.

Is it easier to not allow employees to bring their own devices into the work place? Of course, but is it practical? No. With the latest versions being released yearly if not more frequently, companies cannot keep abreast of the latest versions and why would an employee use an old version when their own device is quicker, more reliable and easier to use?

So, it looks like the security firms revenue is set to increase further over the next few years. But, could the technology firms cash in on the BYOD revolution? By working with companies to offer their own range of security protection if the device is used at work, could companies bridge the gap between employees own and company owned devices. As the customer purchased their device, if their company was registered with the retailer could the security be added to the device in store to the company’s desired spec? For instance, if the company approaches a retailer, ensures its employees purchase their own devices from said supplier at a discount and have it work ready? Could this ensure that employees can still have the freedom of their own device and allow them to upgrade in their own time but at a discount and protected by the employer? It would certainly make it easier to manage.

However, until that happens, it is left with employees to be honest of their own device usage and for companies to be vigilant of their security software updates. Of course, as long as employees cannot access the company network without specific log in details this will allow the company to keep on top of this. But security is and always will be paramount to BYOD being integrated into best working practice.