The trend of consolidation in the software security industry is gaining momentum, with more organizations looking to decrease the diversity of vendors they use for security tools and services. According to a report by analyst firm Gartner, 75% of security and risk management leaders are seeking to consolidate their vendor pool, compared to only 29% two years ago. This shift is driven by the need to reduce complexity, leverage commonalities, and provide more effective security.
One of the main reasons behind this consolidation trend is the risks associated with “tool sprawl.” Many organizations were found to be running 25 to 49 security tools from multiple vendors, leading to duplicative overkill and overwhelming alerts for development teams. The use of multiple tools not only creates complexity but also undermines security instead of improving it.
The concept of consolidation also applies to “vendor sprawl,” where different vendors’ systems, interfaces, and tools don’t always work well together. Despite some tools being considered best of breed, organizations often struggle with managing multiple incompatibilities. Gartner highlights that most organizations cannot afford the technical security staff necessary to effectively integrate a portfolio of security products from different vendors.
The benefits of consolidation are evident, especially in a weakened economy where financial experts warn of a possible recession. Most people prefer to make major purchases from a single vendor, as it simplifies the decision-making process. Although a single vendor may not offer the best-of-breed in every system or component, buyers prioritize what they consider most important.
However, consolidation also comes with potential risks. The saying “putting all your eggs in one basket” rings true, as it increases the vulnerability of organizations if something goes wrong with the chosen vendor. Financial advisers often stress the importance of maintaining a diversified portfolio to balance risk.
Therefore, organizations considering consolidation must proceed with caution. Choosing the right vendor is crucial, as it will impact the organization for several years through a long-term contract. Making the wrong choice can result in long-term headaches and potential security vulnerabilities.
To vet a potential security vendor, several factors need to be considered. Firstly, organizations should evaluate the vendor’s portfolio to ensure that it meets all their security needs. It’s not enough for only one of the essential automated tools to be among the best available if the others are lacking. Weak links in the security chain can compromise the entire system and pose significant risks during the software development life cycle.
Secondly, organizations should demand an open platform that allows the integration of existing security testing tools. Consolidation is a gradual process, and having a platform that enables a smooth transition is crucial to avoid testing gaps.
Lastly, stability and longevity are essential attributes to consider. A vendor should have a history of evolving its portfolio to keep pace with evolving development techniques and threats. This ensures that the partnership remains strong and reliable over time.
The Synopsys Software Integrity Group is one vendor that meets these standards. For the seventh consecutive year, Gartner has placed Synopsys at the top of its Magic Quadrant for Application Security Testing. With a comprehensive portfolio, open platform, and a commitment to evolving security practices, Synopsys provides organizations with the trust and confidence needed in their software security.
In conclusion, the trend of consolidation in the software security industry reflects the desire for simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and improved security. While there are risks associated with consolidation, organizations can mitigate them through careful vendor selection and thorough evaluation of their security needs. By choosing the right vendor and leveraging their expertise, organizations can build trust in their software security and ensure long-term success.