Unveiling the Trend: Networking and Security Team Integration in IT — Insights from Cato Networks’ 2023 SASE Adoption Survey

In today’s digital landscape, the convergence of networking and security has become paramount for organizations aiming to effectively combat cyber threats. According to the results of Cato Networks’ 2023 SASE Adoption Survey, an overwhelming 82% of IT leaders worldwide are now actively driving the convergence of their networking and security teams. This shift signifies a paradigmatic change, where the merging of these teams is no longer an afterthought but a strategic imperative for organizational success.

The Shift in Perspective: Networking and Security Convergence as a Priority

Gone are the days when networking and security were viewed as separate entities. This shift in perspective has stemmed from the urgent need to fortify organizations against cyber threats effectively. By enriching security operations with network visibility and intelligence, businesses can bolster their defenses and stay one step ahead of evolving threats.

The Move Towards Collaboration

The survey findings illustrate the growing trend of merging and collaborating between networking and security teams. An impressive 82% of respondents indicated that their organizations have recognized the importance of converging these teams. This shift is further evident as 24% of organizations have now consolidated network and security responsibilities under a unified team. This consolidation enables seamless coordination and communication between both functions, leading to enhanced operational efficiency and improved cybersecurity posture.

Networking and Security Operations in Harmony

For Carlsberg, a prominent player in the beverage industry, networking and security operations converge naturally. The ultimate goal for the organization is simple: ensuring that the beer keeps flowing. By uniting their networking and security teams, they can tackle potential issues with agility and ensure uninterrupted operations. This case study highlights the relevance of networking and security convergence across diverse industries, emphasizing the common objective of maintaining seamless operations.

Breaking Down Silos and Enhancing Collaboration

By merging networking and security teams, organizations can eliminate the turf wars that have long plagued IT departments. Collaboration becomes the key driver behind proactive cybersecurity measures. However, the survey results reveal that 34% of respondents still face occasional collaboration difficulties or encounter clear-cut turf wars between their networking and security teams. This emphasizes the need for organizations to prioritize overcoming such obstacles and creating a harmonious work environment.

Moreover, 76% of survey respondents believe that adopting a single, shared platform can significantly enhance collaboration. Breaking down silos and sharing a common technology infrastructure enables seamless communication, facilitates unified situational awareness, and empowers teams to respond swiftly to evolving cyber threats.

The Power of a Unified Approach

One of the most significant advantages of converging networking and security teams lies in the ability to utilize a single console for managing all aspects. As one survey respondent aptly put it, “The fact that I can use a single console to manage everything, and my team can know, almost within a blink of an eye, what’s going wrong and where, is a huge advantage for us.” This unified approach streamlines operations, improves incident response times, and enables faster troubleshooting, allowing organizations to maintain a robust security posture while mitigating potential disruptions.

The convergence of networking and security teams is no longer a mere option but a necessary step for organizations wanting to effectively combat cyber threats. As the Cato Networks’ survey indicates, IT leaders worldwide have recognized this imperative, with 82% actively driving the convergence within their organizations. By merging teams and fostering collaboration, organizations can eliminate silos, enhance operational efficiency, and adapt rapidly to the evolving threat landscape. Embracing a single, shared platform further empowers teams to respond swiftly, facilitating a secure and resilient business environment. The journey towards a converged approach holds immense potential for organizations, enabling them to successfully withstand the challenges of an ever-evolving digital world.

Explore more

How Does Industry 5.0 Put Humans Back at the Center?

I’m thrilled to sit down with Dominic Jainy, a seasoned IT professional whose deep expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain has positioned him as a thought leader in the evolution of industrial technology. With a keen interest in how these cutting-edge tools can transform industries, Dominic offers unique insights into the shift from Industry 4.0 to Industry 5.0,

Gemini Usage Limits – Review

Imagine a world where AI tools can churn out content, analyze vast datasets, and solve complex problems in mere seconds, but only if you know the boundaries of their power. Gemini Apps, developed by Google, have emerged as a cornerstone for professionals and casual users alike, offering cutting-edge assistance in tasks ranging from research to creative output. Yet, with great

How Does Databricks’ Data Science Agent Boost Analytics?

In an era where data drives decision-making across industries, the sheer volume and complexity of information can overwhelm even the most skilled data practitioners, making efficiency a constant challenge. Databricks, a prominent player in the data analytics and AI space, has unveiled a transformative tool designed to address this issue head-on. Known as the Data Science Agent, this feature enhances

What Are the Best Books for Data Science Beginners in 2025?

I’m thrilled to sit down with Dominic Jainy, an IT professional whose deep expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain has made him a go-to voice in the tech world. With a passion for exploring how these cutting-edge fields transform industries, Dominic also has a keen interest in guiding aspiring data scientists. Today, we’re diving into the best resources

How Is ESG Reshaping European Employment and Labor Laws?

Imagine a corporate landscape where sustainability isn’t just a buzzword but a legal mandate, where social equity dictates hiring practices, and governance defines accountability at every level. Across Europe, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles are no longer optional for businesses; they are becoming entrenched in employment and labor laws, reshaping how companies operate. This roundup dives into diverse perspectives