Oswal: AI, Platformization Key to Network Security Evolution

Managing fragmented networks across on-premises, cloud and hybrid environments is causing major gaps in security. That's why organizations should unify network security technology under a single platform to ensure consistent policy application across the enterprise, said Palo Alto Networks' Anand Oswal.

A consistent policy framework simplifies management and improves security outcomes across all environments, from on-premises data centers to cloud and remote workplaces, according to Oswal. Moving from third-party security tools to Palo Alto Networks' unified platform requires planning to minimize technological disruption and ensure organizations aren't paying for overlapping technologies, he said (see: Anand Oswal on How Talon's Browser Tech Boosts Cyber Defense).

"Platformization will help us simplify and unify network security," Oswal said. "Now you can have a single experience for the end user, you can have a single experience for the administrator, and most important, you have a better security outcome for the enterprise. That's really what platformization is driving."

In this audio interview with Information Security Media Group, Oswal also discussed:

• Integrating SD-WAN and SSE to streamline network and security management;
• Using AI to improve network security management and threat detection;
• Addressing risks posed by AI deployments, such as shadow AI and data leakage.

Oswal has led Palo Alto Networks' network security efforts since 2020. Before that, he was responsible for building Cisco's enterprise networking portfolio from switching, wireless and routing to IoT and cloud services. Oswal joined Cisco in 2009 through its purchase of mobile packet core gateway provider Starent Networks. He previously led teams at Redback Networks, Cisco's Mobile Wireless Group and Sun Microsystems.