Fortinet®, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, will be exhibiting at GITEX 2023.
In an exclusive conversation with Alain Penel, Vice President, Middle East, Turkey & CIS, here’s what to look forward to from Fortinet at the global event.
What innovation your brand is bringing to GITEX 2023?
At GITEX 2023, we’ll be showcasing an array of advanced cybersecurity solutions and innovations, including SASE, SD-WAN, OT, Cloud, SecOps, and the Fortinet Security Fabric. Attendees will have the chance to uncover our expertise in securing IT/OT convergence, including how we work to ensure that Operational Technology environments have the highest level of protection.
Furthermore, with an emphasis on detecting, protecting, and proactively responding to evolving threats, we’ll be demonstrating how Fortinet places a premium on Threat Intelligence. Cybersecurity specialists will be able to engage with everyone and discuss individualized security solutions based on specific needs.
What are the set milestones that you are looking forward to achieving by the end of this event?
In line with this year’s GITEX theme ‘The year to imagine AI in everything’, we’re looking forward to showcasing how Fortinet is at the forefront of creating an intelligent cybersecurity ecosystem. Our commitment to integrating AI into our Security Fabric empowers organizations to pre-emptively safeguard their networks, data, and critical assets, establishing a robust defense against even the most sophisticated cyber adversaries.
At the Fortinet booth (Hall 7, Booth A20), attendees will be able to experience hands-on demonstrations that exemplify the power of Fortinet’s cutting-edge solutions, while global cybersecurity experts will be available to discuss the latest industry trends and future-proof strategies.
In your opinion, how important it is to be a part of such events?
It’s very important for us, as we always strive to keep abreast of the latest trends and to hear and share ideas with industry experts and peers. We’ll have a strong turnout of both global and local executives again this year, including Joe Sarno, Senior VP International Sales, Alain Sanchez, EMEA Field CISO, Shane Grennan, Senior Channel Director, ME, Kalle Bjorn, Senior Director, Systems Engineering, ME, and myself (Alain Penel, Vice President, Middle East, Turkey & CIS, Fortinet).
Everyone at the event will be able to come along and meet the team to discuss the key issues facing the industry today – from addressing the global cybersecurity skills gap, to protecting businesses against rapidly evolving threats, to the trend of convergence and of course, the impact of AI.
According to you, what technology trends will drive business sustainability in the next 12 months?
Living in a digitized world where nearly all critical infrastructure and services are connected to the internet, including energy, transportation, healthcare, banking and more, cybersecurity has become a fundamental element to the sustainability of our society. Having a robust cybersecurity strategy in place will be crucial for companies seeking to ensure business sustainability and longevity.
Attacks such as ransomware and malware targeting organizations don’t just cause severe damage to businesses, affecting financial viability, brand and reputation, and consumer trust; they also impact the customers and consumers who rely on those organizations. Given the potential impact of cyberattacks on business resiliency, cybersecurity should form part of every business’s sustainability initiative, with the proper measures, processes, tools, and governance in place to ensure that the digital world we all rely on is safe and sustainable.
