Andrew Bartels, Vice President and Principal Analyst at Forrester Research recently made a presentation on the 2009/2010 IT spending outlook. He coined the term "Smart Computing" as the new name for the next generation of technology. He defined Smart Computing as one that is:
- Flexible, adaptable, responsive
- Awareness (location, status, condition) and analytics for IT intelligence
- Focuses on new business problems
Andrew's list of smart computing included, Smart Phones, Smart Utility Grids, Smart Roads, Smart Water Systems, to name a few. But what was missing in my opinion and I am taking the liberty to coin first, is a new term to include in Andy's list - "Smart Security". Smart applications that will fuel the next generation of technology must incorporate "Smart Security". I define Smart Security as a technology that co-relates device(s), user, and data to create a contextual framework for rendering smart solutions.
The key difference is to not just rely on user ID and password to define a "user". Smart security will leverage cognitive capabilities of a user (such as keystroke biometrics, reflective thinking, and behavioral aspects) and enable applications to dynamically authorize users and render content in a risk-assesed manner. Smart Security will ensure "Smart Applications" do not open itself to "smart crooks" in the cyberspace.
Bharat Nair is Vice President of Business Development at Delfigo Security, www.delfigosecurity.com, Boston, MA. He can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at 1.617.248.6501