Month: February 2012
I’m Sorry I Called Your Baby Ugly … But It Is
I like to use technology that is intuitive, solves a problem, and is a “fit” for me. On the other hand, I also like technology that is aesthetically pleasing. Some vendors have managed to deliver on my requirements, which is why I own several Apple products, buy the same brand of suit, and rarely drink domestic beer. But when it comes to security products — namely the user interface (UI) of security monitoring products — I am often disappointed and left wanting.
I speak to numerous vendors across different product sectors on a daily basis, so sometimes my disappointment in their UIs squeaks past my gritted teeth. I do my best to provide constructive criticism based on what I hear from customers, friends, and similar vendors, but the receiving vendor often takes offense. I understand. I called its “baby” ugly. Unlike an ugly baby whose appearance is usually beyond the control of its parents, security UIs can be made better.
Check out my post at the Dark Reading Security Monitoring Tech Center.
No pushing water uphill with Waterfall’s Unidirectional Security Gateway
Rosh HaAyin, Israel-based Waterfall Security Solutions provides Unidirectional Security Gateways (USGs) and data diodes for process control systems, SCADA systems, remote monitoring and segregated networks. Although playing in a somewhat niche market space, the fact that no one can yet claim dominance proves that opportunities abound for hungry companies with capable products.
Palo Alto Networks appoints Steffan Tomlinson as CFO
Santa Clara, California-based Palo Alto Networks has appointed Steffan Tomlinson as its newest CFO. Prior to joining Palo Alto Networks, Tomlinson served as CFO of Arista Networks, following a stint as partner and chief administration officer of Silver Lake Kraftwerk at Silver Lake Partners and Silver Lake Kraftwerk Fund. From 2005 to 2011, Tomlinson served as CFO of Aruba Networks, and was instrumental in its IPO and helping the company scale to facilitate growth. From 2000 to 2005, he was the first nonfounder employee and, ultimately, CFO of Peribit Networks, which was later acquired by Juniper Networks for $337m. Michael Lehman, Palo Alto Networks CFO since April 2010, will assist during the transition.