Many people, many locations.
As a first step, Deakin University conducted an assessment of its overall security position, wanting to determine exactly where it was vulnerable. The proactive detection of cyber threats proved a weak spot. “In the past we’ve really relied on someone to tell us that something unusual is happening,” says Warren. “We really wanted to advance our capability in being able to detect advanced threats.” Like many organisations, Deakin’s approach to cyber security wasn’t particularly structured. There wasn’t a clear security plan in place and multiple vendors were being used, applying different solutions to different aspects. There was no unified approach and this left Deakin exposed. If it wanted to avoid a large-scale cyber attack, the university knew this strategy was unsustainable. “The cyber security ecosystem is complex and evolving every single day,” says William Confalonieri, Chief Digital Officer at Deakin University. “By partnering with Cisco we have removed a big portion of the complexity and risk.” Warren agrees, describing the cyber security marketplace as a “kaleidoscope” of solutions, with the real challenge making sure of a seamless integration between products, while also maintaining simplicity and exerting minimal effort. He explains that going with a single supplier and utilising a single ecosystem of products means a much more effective, cohesive and uncomplicated outcome for Deakin.