Lookout, Inc., a leading cybersecurity company, recently introduced Lookout China Connect, an extension of the Lookout Cloud Security Platform designed specifically for operations in mainland China. This new offering aims to simplify connectivity for remote workers in China while ensuring compliance with the country’s legal and regulatory requirements.
Operating a global enterprise in China poses several challenges when it comes to providing consistent connectivity and access to applications for local workers. China’s unique internet landscape, which includes IP address blocking, bandwidth throttling, and unpredictable latency, can hinder productivity and daily operations. In the past, companies had to route traffic over a private network connection or a virtual private network (VPN) from China to an international site to overcome these challenges. However, this approach is often complex and restricted due to limitations on utilizing leased lines to international locations.
Lookout China Connect offers multinational companies a comprehensive strategy to navigate the connectivity challenges arising from China’s complex regulatory environment. It provides a simplified, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS)-delivered solution that ensures consistent visibility and security. Leveraging the Lookout Cloud Security Platform, Lookout China Connect provides converged protection in the following areas:
1. SaaS Connectivity: Global enterprises heavily reliant on SaaS applications, such as Microsoft 365, Salesforce, and ServiceNow, can now connect and secure remote workers in mainland China with consistent security policies throughout their entire global infrastructure.
2. Remote Users or Teams: Remote workers based in China can access private corporate applications and data hosted outside of the country with the same experience and protection as their colleagues worldwide. This ensures a seamless workflow and enables collaboration regardless of geographical location.
3. International Website Protection: Employees operating in China are shielded from accessing malicious web traffic, vulnerable websites, and internet-based threats such as viruses, malware, and other cyber threats. This safeguard ensures a secure browsing experience and prevents potential attacks that could compromise company data.
According to Sundaram Lakshmanan, Lookout’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), global organizations rely on secure connectivity to maintain productivity and ensure a consistent user experience regardless of location. Lookout China Connect not only provides a positive user experience but also offers peace of mind by guaranteeing data protection and accessibility across all devices, users, and locations.
Lookout China Connect’s importance extends beyond the realm of cybersecurity. By streamlining connectivity in China’s complex digital environment, it enables global enterprises to facilitate collaboration and foster innovation among their workforce, regardless of geographical boundaries. Additionally, it helps maintain a competitive edge by ensuring optimal productivity in a country known for its stringent internet regulations.
In conclusion, Lookout, Inc.’s introduction of Lookout China Connect addresses the connectivity challenges faced by multinational companies operating in China. By providing a simplified and secure solution, it enables remote workers to access applications seamlessly while complying with China’s regulatory framework. This development not only enhances productivity but also reinforces the importance of cybersecurity in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, ensuring the protection of sensitive corporate data.