Skip to content

The Benefits of Enterprise Service Management

Countless strategies to optimize operations and manage services are available to companies. But Enterprise Service Management (ESM) is one approach that consistently proves effective.

ESM applies the principles of IT Service Management (ITSM) to all departments of an organization. This may include HR, finance, legal, facilities and customer service. The result: more unified, efficient service and a structured organization.

In this article, we explore the key benefits of ESM. We show how businesses can overcome common implementation hurdles to maximize their return on investment (ROI).

ESM: A Growing Market

By the end of 2025, analysts expect the global Enterprise Service Management (ESM) market to reach $12.8 billion. This is an annual growth rate of 18–20%. This rapid expansion is driven by several key factors:

  • The rise of remote and hybrid work models demands structured and automated service management processes across all departments.
  • Cloud adoption continues to grow, offering flexible and scalable solutions without the need for costly infrastructure.
  • There’s a growing need for cross-departmental collaboration and operational efficiency. This prompts companies to adopt ESM platforms that break down silos and simplify workflows.

As organizations increasingly prioritize digital transformation, the value of ESM solutions continues to rise.

ESM: A Driver of Transformation

Enterprise Service Management encompasses the entire organization. It brings service-oriented business models and proven IT practices beyond IT. Simply put, ESM provides structured workflows, automated processes, and performance monitoring across all departments.

With ESM, organizations can standardize services, enhance the user experience, and drive digital transformation at scale.

Enterprise Service Management is much more than an operational framework. It is a catalyst for transformation, enabling organizations to deliver better services across the board.

Understanding the benefits of ESM is critical for companies looking to boost efficiency, transparency, and satisfaction—both internally and externally.

The Benefits of Enterprise Service Management

From automating routine tasks and optimizing workflows to enhancing collaboration and ensuring compliance, ESM delivers measurable value that drives business growth and competitiveness.
Let’s look at the top reasons why companies should embrace ESM:

#1 Increased Efficiency Through Automation

ESM boosts efficiency by enabling process automation and standardization. This helps businesses save valuable time and reduce errors.

For example, an HR department can automate onboarding processes. This approach fully equips new employees and prepares them to start on time. Doing so improves the employee experience for the new hire.

Example: A company shortens its onboarding time using ESM tools. The tools automatically create user accounts, assign devices, and run compliance checks. This allows HR to focus more on strategic initiatives like talent development.

#2 Transparency and Control

ESM offers real-time transparency into workflows, service requests, and responsibilities across departments. Dashboards, reports, and analytics give leadership the insights they need to make informed decisions. They help to avoid bottlenecks, clearly assign responsibilities, and better track company goals.

Example: A financial services provider uses ESM to manage compliance requests, IT issues, and HR matters. Previously, request handling relied on long, disorganized email threads and spreadsheets, causing delays and mistakes. With ESM, service desk managers now have full visibility into the work. They can watch task statuses, assign tasks efficiently, meet deadlines, and resolve internal issues more quickly.

#3 Better Collaboration and Communication

One of ESM’s core benefits is improved cross-departmental collaboration and communication. Centralized platforms enable teams to exchange information, share updates, and solve problems together. ESM platforms often include built-in knowledge bases, ticketing systems, and collaboration tools.

Example: A facilities department coordinates setting up a new office with IT and HR. Without ESM, project management happens via scattered emails and to-do lists—causing friction and confusion. ESM centralizes workflows to streamline processes in one single platform. This includes tasks like network setup, workspace preparation, and employee onboarding lists.

#4 Compliance and Security

Compliance and data protection are critical for any company today. ESM supports regulatory adherence by enabling standardized procedures, access monitoring, and audit trails. Automated compliance workflows help organizations stay compliant over the long term.

Example: A healthcare organization uses ESM to automate compliance reporting and data access management across departments. This improves handling of patient records, payment reconciliation, and treatment documentation.

Before ESM, manual checks posed risks. ESM automatically generates audit logs, access approvals, and reports—reducing violations, improving audit readiness, and strengthening trust in compliance practices.

#5 Resource Optimization

With centralized transparency and smart automation, ESM enables optimal use of time, equipment, and personnel. It identifies underused resources, eliminates redundant processes, and enhances planning and forecasting.

Example: A large manufacturing company implements ESM to manage maintenance requests and workforce planning. Previously, poor coordination led to duplicated work and delays. ESM documents, prioritizes and monitors activities in real time. This improves resource usage, reduces downtime, and cuts overtime costs.

#6 Customer Satisfaction

Optimized internal processes directly improve the end-customer experience: faster response times, accurate information, and consistent service all drive satisfaction. ESM empowers customer-facing teams—like sales and support—with the right tools and data.

Example: A telecom provider uses ESM to automate and monitor customer support across channels (call centers, web portals, apps). Before ESM, requests were often misrouted or delayed. ESMs solutions automatically prioritize, assign and track tickets via SLA monitoring. This leads to faster resolution times and a significantly higher first contact resolution rate.

Common Challenges in ESM Implementation—and how to solve them

Despite its many benefits, companies often face the following challenges when implementing ESM:

#1 Resistance to Change

Employees familiar with legacy systems, such as dedicated ITSM solutions, may resist new processes. This cultural inertia can slow down adoption.

Solution: Offer comprehensive training and involve stakeholders early in the ESM selection and implementation processes. This helps to build acceptance and ownership over the change. Ensure newly introduced platforms are user friendly to make adoption easier.

#2 Silo Mentality

Departments often work in isolation. One department delivers services one way. Another uses completely different tools and workflows. Integrating them into a central ESM platform can be complex.

Solution: Start with pilot projects in individual departments and expand gradually. Actively promote collaboration.

#3 Lack of Leadership Commitment

Without executive backing, ESM projects often suffer from a lack of resources and clear objectives.

Solution: Demonstrate the ROI and strategic benefits of ESM. Use KPIs and real-world success stories to gain leadership buy-in.

#4 Complex Data Integration

Migrating and connecting data from different systems is technically demanding.

Solution: Choose ESM software with strong integration capabilities and develop a data strategy early on. The right technology, partners, and ongoing support help overcome hurdles. This unlocks the full potential of ESM.

The Role of Software Solutions in ESM Success

Choosing the right platform is critical. The solution must align with the company’s size, existing IT infrastructure, and specific service management needs. A modular cloud platform often provides the flexibility and scalability required. A service portal is a key aspect of ESM software as it provides a single point of contact for customers and employees.

Implementing Enterprise Service Management isn’t just about internal process optimization—it transforms how an organization operates day to day. More automation and transparency, higher employee and customer satisfaction, and better resource usage: the benefits of ESM are compelling.

Ultimately, ESM helps companies unlock untapped potential—fueling the innovation, efficiency, and satisfaction leaders, customers and employees expect.

About OTRS

OTRS (originally Open-Source Ticket Request System) is a service management suite. The suite contains an agent portal, admin dashboard and customer portal. In the agent portal, teams process tickets and requests from customers (internal or external). There are various ways in which this information, as well as customer and related data can be viewed. As the name implies, the admin dashboard allows system administrators to manage the system: Options are many, but include roles and groups, process automation, channel integration, and CMDB/database options. The third component, the customer portal, is much like a customizable webpage where information can be shared with customers and requests can be tracked on the customer side.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Data Encryption Solution D.AMO Has Operated Normally for Over 17 Years

From Korean Leader to Global Contender: Inside Penta Security’s Strategy for Dominance 

For nearly three decades, Penta Security has quietly dominated South Korea’s cybersecurity landscape. With its flagship products for data encryption, web security, and authentication all holding the #1 market position for over 17 years, the company has built a formidable reputation. Now, under the leadership of CEO Tae Gyun Kim, the Seoul-based firm is leveraging its deep technological roots to pursue an ambitious global expansion.

Since taking the helm in August 2022, Kim has overseen impressive growth, increasing annual revenue by over KRW 10 billion to KRW 37.8 billion last year. “All three of our flagship products lead their respective domains,” Kim stated in a recent interview, highlighting the company’s strong foundation.

A Foundation Built on a Three-Stage Philosophy

Penta Security’s success is built on a clear, three-stage model of cybersecurity: 1) Authentication, 2) Monitoring and Blocking, and 3) Data Protection. “Authentication is the first and most vulnerable stage,” Kim explained. “Then we monitor traffic and block threats. Finally, we protect the ultimate target—the data itself—with encryption. This final stage is our core strength.”

This philosophy has guided the development of its market-leading products:

  • iSIGN (Authentication): Korea’s #1 appliance-based SSO platform, launched in 2001.
  • WAPPLES (Monitoring & Blocking): An intelligent WAAP solution introduced in 2005, now protecting over 700,000 businesses worldwide.
  • D.AMO (Data Protection): The company’s “cash cow” and Korea’s first commercial-grade data encryption solution, launched in 2004.

The Vision for a Global Future

While Penta Security enjoys a commanding 50%+ market share in Korea’s public sector, its sights are set abroad. “The domestic market is too limited; strategic international expansion is key,” Kim emphasized. The company aims for international revenue to equal domestic revenue within five years.

Japan has become a key beachhead, accounting for roughly 400 of its 1,100 international enterprise customers. “Japanese customers value our data-driven performance, localized support, and user-friendly tools,” Kim noted, pointing to the explosive 6,000% growth of its Cloudbric WAF+ service in the country. With established offices in Tokyo, Hanoi, and Abu Dhabi, Penta Security is tailoring its core products to meet regional needs and expects its overseas license revenue to surpass KRW 5 billion this year.

Innovating for Tomorrow’s Threats

Penta Security continues to innovate proactively. This year will see the launch of WAPPLES 7.0, an enhanced WAAP platform, and iSIGN Passwordless, which replaces passwords with biometrics and OTP. The company is also launching Cloudbric Mask, a free AI-powered service to automatically blur personal information in images and videos.

“We aim to evolve from a Korean cybersecurity leader to a top global cybersecurity company,” Kim concluded. “We want to build a company that passionate professionals aspire to join.” By leveraging its proven technology and a clear global strategy, Penta Security is making a compelling case to do just that.

About Penta Security
Penta Security takes a holistic approach to cover all the bases for information security. The company has worked and is constantly working to ensure the safety of its customers behind the scenes through the wide range of IT-security offerings. As a result, with its headquarters in Korea, the company has expanded globally as a market share leader in the Asia-Pacific region.

As one of the first to make headway into information security in Korea, Penta Security has developed a wide range of fundamental technologies. Linking science, engineering, and management together to expand our technological capacity, we then make our critical decisions from a technological standpoint.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Microsoft 365 vs. Google Workspace

A guide for IT teams to choose the right productivity suite for their organization’s secure and scalable future.

Choosing the right productivity suite is a critical decision for any organization. While both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) offer a robust set of applications for collaboration, communication, and content creation, their approaches, security models, and management capabilities differ significantly. This guide compares the two platforms to help IT teams make an informed choice that aligns with their strategic goals.

Productivity Tools: A Feature Breakdown

At their core, both suites provide a similar set of tools, but their user experience and strengths vary. Microsoft 365’s foundation is built on its powerful, feature-rich desktop applications like Word and Excel, while Google Workspace prioritizes simplicity and real-time, browser-based collaboration.

Feature Microsoft 365 Google Workspace
Productivity Apps Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Keep
Collaboration Robust tools in desktop apps; co-authoring in the cloud; Teams for chat and video. Real-time collaboration is a core strength; users can edit documents simultaneously without version conflicts.
Email & Calendar Outlook and Exchange, offering advanced features and deep integration with the M365 suite. Gmail and Google Calendar, known for simplicity, powerful search, and smart features.
Storage OneDrive and SharePoint, with scalable storage options and enterprise-level controls. Google Drive, offering generous storage that is easy to manage and share.

Security, Identity & Management

Both platforms have strong security foundations, but they approach enterprise security with different philosophies. Microsoft 365 is tailored for large-scale enterprise environments with complex security needs, while Google Workspace focuses on built-in security and ease of use.

Microsoft’s Approach

Microsoft 365 provides a wide range of enterprise-grade security tools, deeply integrated with its ecosystem. Key features include:

  • Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD): A comprehensive identity and access management solution.
  • Microsoft Defender: Provides advanced threat protection across endpoints, email, and the cloud.
  • Information Protection: Tools for data loss prevention (DLP) and data encryption.

Google’s Approach

Google Workspace emphasizes simplicity and robust, user-friendly security. Key features include:

  • Built-in Protections: Automatic threat detection and email scanning in Gmail.
  • Simple Identity Management: Easy-to-use admin controls for user and device management.
  • Data Loss Prevention: Basic DLP features to protect sensitive information.

Pricing and Scalability

Both suites offer flexible pricing plans that scale with your organization’s needs. Microsoft 365 typically has more complex licensing tiers to accommodate various user needs and enterprise-level features, while Google Workspace’s pricing model is often simpler and more straightforward.

The Missing Layer: A Unified Management Solution

Regardless of which platform you choose, a critical piece is often missing: a unified management layer that simplifies access, security, and device control. This is where a solution like Scalefusion OneIdP becomes essential. It complements both Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace by providing a single pane of glass for IT teams to manage all users, devices, and access policies, eliminating the need to toggle between different admin consoles. By centralizing control, it enhances security and provides clear visibility, ensuring your IT strategy is both secure and scalable.

About Scalefusion
Scalefusion’s company DNA is built on the foundation of providing world-class customer service and making endpoint management simple and effortless for businesses globally. We prioritize the needs and feedback of our customers, making sure that they are at the forefront of all decision-making processes. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive customer support services, and place emphasis on customer-centric thinking throughout the organization.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Scaling Securely: How SC//HyperCore’s Architecture Reduces Risk by Design

In the world of IT, complexity is often a hidden security risk. Every layer of software, every new vendor, and every point of integration introduces a new opportunity for a vulnerability to emerge. This is a primary challenge for organizations building out their infrastructure, especially at the edge.

Scale Computing’s **SC//HyperCore** architecture was created to tackle this problem head-on. By designing a platform that is simple from the ground up, it delivers a secure foundation that inherently reduces risk, allowing businesses to scale without compromising on their defenses.

The Power of Simplification

SC//HyperCore is a true all-in-one solution that integrates the hypervisor, storage, and management into a single, cohesive appliance. This radical simplification directly translates into powerful security advantages:

  • Reduced Attack Surface: By eliminating separate hypervisors, complex storage area networks (SANs), and multiple management consoles, SC//HyperCore significantly shrinks the attack surface. There are fewer points of entry for attackers to exploit, fewer pieces of software to patch, and fewer services to misconfigure.
  • No Third-Party Vulnerabilities: Unlike other solutions that rely on a complex stack of third-party software, SC//HyperCore operates on its own, purpose-built kernel. This means you are not exposed to the vulnerabilities found in external hypervisors or storage software, reducing your exposure to new threats and the constant need for emergency patching.
  • Simplified Management, Fewer Mistakes: The SC//HyperCore platform is managed through a single, intuitive interface. This “single pane of glass” approach removes the complexity of managing disparate systems, which minimizes the chance of human error—one of the leading causes of security breaches.
  • Built-in Resiliency: Security isn’t just about stopping threats; it’s also about withstanding them. SC//HyperCore’s native, self-healing architecture includes automated failover and integrated disaster recovery. These capabilities are not an add-on; they are part of the core design, making the system inherently more resilient against both cyberattacks and hardware failure.

In a world of ever-increasing cyber threats, a complex, multi-layered IT infrastructure can be a liability. The SC//HyperCore architecture proves that security doesn’t have to be a complicated and expensive add-on. By focusing on simplicity and integration, it delivers a powerful, secure, and resilient platform that allows organizations to scale confidently, knowing their foundation is protected by design.

About Scale Computing
Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions. Scale Computing HC3 software eliminates the need for traditional virtualization software, disaster recovery software, servers, and shared storage, replacing these with a fully integrated, highly available system for running applications. Using patented HyperCore™ technology, the HC3 self-healing platform automatically identifies, mitigates, and corrects infrastructure problems in real-time, enabling applications to achieve maximum uptime. When ease-of-use, high availability, and TCO matter, Scale Computing HC3 is the ideal infrastructure platform. Read what our customers have to say on Gartner Peer Insights, Spiceworks, TechValidate and TrustRadius.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

What is Hybrid Cloud and What Are the Benefits?

In the world of IT infrastructure, you often hear about the public cloud and the private cloud. But what if you don’t have to choose between them? The **hybrid cloud** offers a powerful “best of both worlds” solution, combining the flexibility of the public cloud with the security and control of a private environment.

A hybrid cloud is a unified computing environment that connects a public cloud (like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud) with a private cloud or on-premise infrastructure. The key to a hybrid cloud is the ability to share data and applications seamlessly between these two distinct environments. This allows organizations to run workloads where it makes the most sense—whether on-premise for sensitive data or in the cloud for scalable applications.

Key Benefits of a Hybrid Cloud Strategy

Adopting a hybrid cloud model offers several strategic advantages for modern businesses. Here are some of the most significant benefits:

  • Flexibility and Agility: The hybrid cloud provides unmatched flexibility. You can use your private infrastructure for day-to-day operations and “burst” into the public cloud to handle sudden spikes in demand. This is ideal for e-commerce sites during holidays or for applications with unpredictable traffic.
  • Cost Optimization: A hybrid approach allows you to optimize your spending. You don’t have to over-invest in on-premise hardware to prepare for peak loads. By using the public cloud for temporary needs, you only pay for what you use, turning a large capital expenditure into a more manageable operational expense.
  • Enhanced Security and Control: For organizations with sensitive data, a hybrid cloud is the ideal solution. You can keep critical data, such as customer information or intellectual property, on your private servers where you have complete control over security and compliance. Less sensitive workloads can then be run in the public cloud.
  • Improved Business Continuity: Hybrid cloud is a powerful tool for disaster recovery. By backing up data to the public cloud, you can quickly restore operations in a separate environment in the event of a local outage, ensuring business continuity with minimal downtime.
  • Seamless Legacy Integration: Many organizations have significant investments in existing on-premise infrastructure. A hybrid cloud allows you to gradually migrate to the cloud at your own pace, integrating your legacy systems with modern cloud services without a disruptive and costly “rip-and-replace” approach.

In a world where digital transformation is constant, the hybrid cloud provides a strategic, future-proof framework. It allows companies to leverage the best features of both cloud and on-premise environments, offering a path to greater efficiency, stronger security, and better long-term adaptability. It’s not just a technology choice—it’s a fundamental part of a resilient business strategy.

About Scale Computing
Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions. Scale Computing HC3 software eliminates the need for traditional virtualization software, disaster recovery software, servers, and shared storage, replacing these with a fully integrated, highly available system for running applications. Using patented HyperCore™ technology, the HC3 self-healing platform automatically identifies, mitigates, and corrects infrastructure problems in real-time, enabling applications to achieve maximum uptime. When ease-of-use, high availability, and TCO matter, Scale Computing HC3 is the ideal infrastructure platform. Read what our customers have to say on Gartner Peer Insights, Spiceworks, TechValidate and TrustRadius.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

The Hidden Barriers to PAM — And How to Break Through

Privileged access management (PAM) is a critical layer of security that controls who has access to sensitive systems, tools, and data. 

It’s also one of the most misunderstood and under-implemented solutions across small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Many IT and security professionals know they need stronger access controls. But when it comes to implementing PAM across the entire environment, progress often stalls. 🫥

Why? Because most PAM solutions aren’t built for modern, growing teams. 

If you’ve ever looked into PAM and thought, “This looks expensive, complicated, and built for someone else,” you’re not alone. A lot of teams feel the same way — and for a few common reasons. 👇

1. PAM Isn’t Designed for Remote Work Setups

A lot of PAM tools out there were built with big, on-premise environments in mind. They assume you’ve got racks of servers, tight network controls, and a dedicated security team to manage it all. That’s just not the reality for most growing organizations today.

Today’s work happens in the cloud, on any device, and from virtually anywhere. If a PAM solution can’t handle SaaS apps, remote access, and modern infrastructure without slowing everything down, it’s not going to be of much help.

Today’s PAM needs to work where your team works. That means cloud-friendly, easy to deploy, and no reliance on VPNs or perimeter-based security models. 

2. PAM Is Complex and Expensive

Most PAM vendors cater to enterprises. That means enterprise-sized pricing, enterprise-level onboarding, and enterprise-style complexity.

Smaller organizations are expected to pay for features they won’t use, host infrastructure they don’t want, and hire people they can’t afford. That’s a non-starter for lean IT teams who need to move fast and don’t have time for a six-month rollout.

Modern teams need PAM that’s affordable, easy to set up, and manageable without needing a full-time security engineer.

3. PAM Isn’t Built to Support IT-Security Collaboration

Many PAM tools are built with only security teams in mind. They’re designed for big organizations with specialized roles. And don’t consider how things work in smaller or hybrid teams where IT often wears both hats.

Privileged access touches every part of a modern organization: devices, users, applications, infrastructure, and third-party tools. If PAM doesn’t support collaboration between IT and Security, or if it excludes IT from using it altogether, it fails its purpose.

PAM must be intuitive enough for IT admins, with built-in context and controls that don’t require deep security specialization. 

4. PAM Vendors Are Reluctant to Innovate

Many legacy PAM vendors are focused on maintaining enterprise contracts and renewals. They prioritize predictable revenue streams over innovation. 

That’s why most PAM tools haven’t evolved to meet the needs of SMBs or modern IT environments.

This risk-averse behavior reinforces the idea that PAM is an enterprise-only tool. It creates a cycle where only large organizations have access to mature solutions, while the rest are left behind.

The market needs vendors who are willing to challenge this cycle. Those who can offer PAM that’s flexible, scalable, and intentionally designed for SMBs and cloud-first organizations.

How You Can Break Through the PAM Barriers

The good news is, IT and security teams like yours are rethinking what PAM should look like — and finding smarter ways to make it work. ⚡

Here are a few steps you can take to get privileged access under control:

  • Start with what matters most. You don’t need to overhaul your entire access strategy overnight. Focus first on your highest-risk accounts and most sensitive resources. Implement just-in-time access or session monitoring for critical roles, then expand from there.
  • Look for solutions built for modern environments. Choose a PAM platform that’s cloud-native, device-aware, and doesn’t require a VPN to function. It should work across SaaS apps, remote infrastructure, and hybrid teams without friction.
  • Prioritize ease of use. The best security tools are the ones your team can actually use. Look for platforms that make it easy to set policies, delegate access, and monitor activity without needing deep security expertise.
  • Make PAM a shared responsibility. Whether you have a dedicated security team or not, PAM should be accessible to IT. Look for vendors that support IT-Security collaboration with intuitive interfaces, shared workflows, and role-based access.
  • Push for vendor transparency. Don’t settle for bloated pricing or unclear onboarding requirements. Ask direct questions: How long will this take to deploy? Can IT own it? What will it take to scale with our growth?

You don’t have to settle for complexity or wait until you’re big enough to get started with PAM. 😃

About JumpCloud
At JumpCloud, our mission is to build a world-class cloud directory. Not just the evolution of Active Directory to the cloud, but a reinvention of how modern IT teams get work done. The JumpCloud Directory Platform is a directory for your users, their IT resources, your fleet of devices, and the secure connections between them with full control, security, and visibility.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Acumera Acquires Scale Computing, Expanding Edge Computing Leadership and Accelerating Innovation Across Distributed Enterprises and MSPs

Acumera logo

 

Combined Company Will Be Known as Scale Computing

AUSTIN, TX – July 31, 2025 – Acumera, a leading provider of secure edge connectivity, visibility, and computing solutions, today announced the acquisition of Scale Computing, a pioneer in hyperconverged infrastructure and edge virtualization. The acquisition strengthens Acumera’s position as a market leader in delivering fully integrated, scalable edge platforms for enterprises operating across distributed locations. The combined company will be known as Scale Computing.

The new company, which brings the secure managed edge and network capabilities of the AcuVigil™ Platform, the edge application orchestration and Point of Sale integration capabilities of the Acumera Reliant Platform and the highly available edge AI and virtualization platform of Scale Computing, to create the largest edge computing-focused software company in the industry, with the ability to serve customers worldwide ranging from one to 100,000 locations. The new Scale Computing will enable organizations of all sizes to confidently and securely deploy and manage AI workloads at the edge where real-time decision-making, low-latency processing, and operational simplicity are paramount.

“We believe Acumera and Scale Computing customers and partners will benefit from having the ability to leverage both the Scale Computing Platform and the Acumera SaaS solutions for edge computing, secure edge networking, managed network services, and PCI compliance for multi-site businesses. The newly combined company’s technology offerings are a significant step forward in our vision to empower organizations of all sizes with intelligent, AI-ready edge infrastructure that reduces complexity while enhancing performance and resilience,” said Bill Morrow, CEO of the new Scale Computing. “We are enthusiastic about this opportunity and together we will redefine what’s possible at the edge.”

The acquisition will accelerate innovation in key industries such as retail, hospitality, manufacturing, energy, and for Managed Service Providers, where scalable edge solutions are critical to managing distributed operations, reducing downtime, and delivering seamless customer experiences. Existing Acumera and Scale Computing customers and partners will benefit from enhanced product integration, broader support capabilities, and a unified roadmap for edge intelligence.

Nicholas Basso, Managing Director for Oaktree’s Global Opportunities strategy, notes: “We’re thrilled to see two innovators in edge computing coming together through Acumera’s acquisition of Scale Computing. This acquisition creates unmatched potential for the integrated team to deliver smarter, faster, and more efficient solutions at the edge, right where businesses need them most.”

Jeff Ready, Scale Computing’s former CEO and co-founder, agrees with both Basso and Morrow and adds: “Joining forces with Acumera marks an exciting new chapter for Scale Computing, our customers, our partners, and our team. The new Scale Computing will bring even more innovative and powerful solutions to our partners and customers.” Ready’s new title is President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

About Acumera

Acumera is a leading provider of managed network security and edge computing solutions for distributed enterprises. Acumera’s platform delivers secure connectivity, centralized visibility, and real-time computing power to the edge of enterprise networks.

About Scale Computing

Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged infrastructure. The Scale Computing Platform is designed to run applications efficiently at the edge or in the data center, delivering simplicity, scalability, and resilience for IT environments of all sizes.

About Oaktree

Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with $203 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025. The firm emphasizes an opportunistic, value-oriented, and risk-controlled approach to investments in credit, equity, and real estate. The firm has more than 1,200 employees and offices in 25 cities worldwide. For additional information, please visit Oaktree’s website at https://www.oaktreecapital.com/. In 2024, funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management L.P. made a strategic investment in Acumera, to accelerate Acumera’s growth, expand its product portfolio, and strengthen its overall industry position.

TD Securities served as exclusive financial advisor and Dubois Bryant & Campbell served as legal counsel to Acumera. Guggenheim Securities served as exclusive financial advisor and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati served as legal counsel to Scale Computing.

About Scale Computing
Scale Computing is a leader in edge computing, virtualization, and hyperconverged solutions. Scale Computing HC3 software eliminates the need for traditional virtualization software, disaster recovery software, servers, and shared storage, replacing these with a fully integrated, highly available system for running applications. Using patented HyperCore™ technology, the HC3 self-healing platform automatically identifies, mitigates, and corrects infrastructure problems in real-time, enabling applications to achieve maximum uptime. When ease-of-use, high availability, and TCO matter, Scale Computing HC3 is the ideal infrastructure platform. Read what our customers have to say on Gartner Peer Insights, Spiceworks, TechValidate and TrustRadius.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

Healthcare data security for modern organizations

Summary: Learn why healthcare data security is critical, the top threats, and practical strategies healthcare organizations can use to protect patient data.

Imagine an attacker quietly gaining access to sensitive patient information in your hospital network—reading lab results, personal health information, insurance details, and even payment data, undetected for weeks. For many healthcare organizations, this is not a hypothetical scenario but a daily concern.

In a world driven by electronic health records and digital transformation, healthcare data security has become critical for protecting patient privacy, maintaining operational integrity, and complying with strict regulations while building patient trust.

In this article, we’ll walk through what makes healthcare data security uniquely challenging and why it’s critical to get it right—from understanding the most common threats to implementing practical strategies that protect patient data.

What is healthcare data security?

Healthcare data security refers to the policies, practices, and technologies healthcare providers and companies use to protect electronic health records (EHRs), personal health information (PHI), and other sensitive patient data from unauthorized access, corruption, or theft.

It ensures that patient data security aligns with regulatory requirements, organizational goals, and patient privacy expectations.

Healthcare data security involves implementing layered security measures, including secure networks, encryption, role-based access control (RBAC), multi-factor authentication (MFA), and continuous monitoring to protect healthcare data across all systems and endpoints.

Why healthcare data is a growing cybersecurity concern

The healthcare industry is especially exposed to cyber threats that are becoming more advanced and frequent. While the number of data breaches continues to rise, several reasons make healthcare data security harder to maintain:

Key reasons why healthcare faces growing cybersecurity risks: digital data surge, outdated systems, black market value, wider attack surface, and skill gaps.

Surge in digital patient data & interconnectedness

The widespread adoption of EHRs, coupled with the rapid expansion of telehealth services and remote patient monitoring, has dramatically increased the volume of sensitive patient data stored, processed, and transmitted digitally.

Every new digital tool helps patient care, but also gives attackers more points to target. The amount of valuable data makes healthcare organizations attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Fragmented systems & outdated infrastructure

Many healthcare providers still use old systems that were not built with modern cybersecurity in mind. These outdated systems often lack security features, have known weaknesses, and are hard to update or patch, making them easy targets for bad actors.

Replacing or upgrading these systems can be expensive, so many healthcare organizations struggle to modernize their cybersecurity.

High value of healthcare data on the black market

Unlike credit card numbers, which can be quickly canceled, PHI and insurance data are incredibly valuable on the black market. They can be used for various illicit activities, including identity theft, insurance fraud, and even medical fraud, for years.

This high street value makes healthcare organizations exceptionally attractive targets for financially motivated cybercriminals, leading to an alarming number of data breaches—only in May 2025, 59 breaches were reported in the U.S. healthcare sector, affecting 1.8 M individuals.

The average cost of a healthcare data breach is significantly higher than in other sectors, reflecting the sensitive nature of the data involved.

The expanding attack surface

The healthcare ecosystem is incredibly complex, with healthcare organizations relying heavily on a vast network of third-party vendors for everything from billing and IT services to specialized medical devices. If not properly secured, each third-party connection represents a potential entry point for attackers.

Furthermore, the growing use of IoT medical devices—from smart infusion pumps to remote monitoring sensors—introduces new vulnerabilities. Many of these devices are not built with robust healthcare data security in mind, creating a wider attack surface and increasing the risk of data breaches.

Resource constraints & skill gaps

Despite the critical nature of their data, many healthcare organizations operate with limited cybersecurity budgets and a lack of skilled cybersecurity professionals to manage it. This makes it harder to implement, maintain, and continuously update the advanced security measures necessary to keep pace with modern threats.

The ability to invest in cutting-edge healthcare data security tools and retain top talent is often a challenge.

Key regulations in healthcare data protection

To ensure patient data security and privacy, healthcare organizations must comply with several key regulations:

  • Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Establishes national standards for protecting sensitive patient information.
  • Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH): Encourages healthcare providers to adopt electronic health records while strengthening the privacy and security protections under HIPAA.
  • General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): This regulation applies to healthcare providers processing EU residents’ data and requires strict data protection measures.
  • State-specific privacy laws: Regulations like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) may also apply, emphasizing patient privacy and data security practices.

These regulations are designed to ensure healthcare data protection, requiring healthcare organizations to adopt robust security measures and implement strong data protection practices.

 

Top security threats to healthcare organizations

Various cybersecurity firms and annual industry reports confirm healthcare as a prime target for specific attack types like ransomware and phishing. Reports from cybersecurity firms like Proofpoint indicate that 88–92% of healthcare organizations experience cyber-attacks once a year. The threats they mostly encounter are:

Ransomware attacks

These remain one of the most debilitating threats. Often initiated via phishing or exploiting unpatched vulnerabilities, ransomware encrypts critical systems and patient data, demanding a ransom. Such attacks can bring hospital operations to a standstill, directly impacting patient care and causing extensive data breaches, with recovery costs often in the millions.

Insider breaches

Not all threats originate externally. Employees or contractors with authorized access can intentionally misuse or accidentally expose patient data, from unauthorized snooping to misdirected emails. These incidents pose serious patient data security issues and are particularly challenging to detect given the authorized access.

Phishing and credential theft

Phishing remains a primary initial vector for many cyber-attacks. Highly sophisticated campaigns target healthcare providers to trick staff into revealing login credentials. Once stolen, these credentials grant attackers unauthorized access to internal networks and sensitive patient data, directly leading to data breaches.

Third-party and vendor risks

The intricate supply chain means healthcare organizations rely on numerous vendors. Insecure systems within these third parties can become direct entry points into an organization’s network. A data breach at a vendor can thus compromise data for multiple partner healthcare organizations, creating a snowball effect on healthcare data security.

IoT vulnerabilities

While beneficial, the growing use of IoT medical devices introduces significant security risks. Many such devices prioritize functionality over robust security, often lacking strong authentication or encryption. This vulnerability allows potential unauthorized access to patient data or even manipulation of device functionality, impacting both healthcare data security and patient safety.

 

 

Security challenges in the healthcare industry

The healthcare industry faces a unique and persistent set of challenges in maintaining effective data security in healthcare, which often exceed those found in other sectors. Successfully addressing these requires a careful understanding of the operational realities within healthcare organizations.

  • Balancing ease of access for medical staff with robust patient data security. Healthcare environments demand immediate, seamless access to patient information, especially in critical situations, making it a constant struggle to enforce strong network security without impeding patient care efficiency.
  • Integrating new technologies while maintaining compliance and security measures. The rapid adoption of innovations like AI and telemedicine requires careful integration into existing infrastructures, all while ensuring continuous regulatory compliance and maintaining a high level of data security across all systems.
  • Limited budgets and IT resources for advanced security tools. Many healthcare organizations, especially smaller providers, operate with constrained cybersecurity budgets and a shortage of skilled professionals, limiting their ability to invest in advanced healthcare data security tools and increasing their vulnerability to sophisticated cyber-attacks and data breaches.
  • Managing a diverse ecosystem of connected devices and vendor systems. A typical healthcare organization faces a challenge in ensuring consistent and effective data security across many interconnected medical devices, diverse IT systems, and numerous external vendor platforms that broaden the attack surface and increase the potential for undetected data breaches.

These challenges encourage healthcare organizations to adopt a proactive, multi-layered, and flexible approach to data protection. It’s not a one-time fix but an ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, built on robust strategies and strong partnerships. Let’s explore this more by diving into the best practices of data protection in healthcare.

Best practices to protect healthcare data

Implementing a strong healthcare data security strategy requires a combination of technology, processes, and people. These best practices are crucial for healthcare organizations aiming to prevent data breaches and maintain patient trust.

Four essential practices for protecting healthcare data: role-based access control with MFA, encryption and secure handling, staff training, and vendor security checks.

Role-based access control (RBAC) and MFA

Limit access to sensitive patient information based on job roles and enforce multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of protection for EHRs. This ensures that employees only access the data necessary for their duties. At the same time, MFA significantly hardens login security, making it much more difficult for unauthorized users to gain access even with stolen credentials.

Encryption and secure data handling

Encrypt patient data at rest and in transit to safeguard healthcare data from unauthorized access. Even if a system is compromised, encryption renders the data unreadable to attackers. Implement secure data handling practices, including strict protocols for data disposal and secure file sharing, to minimize exposure risks.

Continuous staff training

Regularly train staff on data security practices, phishing awareness, and handling sensitive patient information securely to reduce human error. An informed workforce is often the first line of defense, capable of identifying and reporting potential threats before they escalate into data breaches.

Vendor and third-party oversight

Vet vendors and third-party services to ensure they follow strong data protection practices and do not expose your organization to unnecessary risks. Comprehensive due diligence and ongoing monitoring of third-party security postures are essential to extend your healthcare data security perimeter beyond your immediate infrastructure.

How to respond to a healthcare data breach

Despite all preventative efforts, data breaches can and do happen. A swift, organized, and compliant response is crucial to minimizing damage, restoring operational integrity, and rebuilding patient trust. This is a critical component of overall healthcare data security.

1. Contain the incident and assess the scope

Immediately isolate affected systems to prevent further damage and assess the scope of compromised patient data. Quick containment limits the spread of the breach, while a rapid assessment helps understand what data was impacted and how many individuals are affected.

2. Investigate the cause and preserve evidence

Identify how the breach occurred, preserve evidence for compliance and potential legal needs, and understand vulnerabilities in your systems. A thorough forensic investigation is vital not only for accountability but also to prevent future similar incidents and strengthen healthcare data security.

3. Notify affected parties and implement long-term fixes

Notify affected individuals and regulatory bodies as required, while addressing the root causes to strengthen data security in healthcare and prevent future incidents. Clear communication and quick action help reduce legal risks and regain trust in your data security.

How can NordLayer help with data security in healthcare

NordLayer supports healthcare providers and companies by securing their networks, helping with security compliance, and protecting healthcare data through layered security, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and continuous monitoring.

Our healthcare cybersecurity solutions are designed to address the complex challenges of healthcare data security, providing a robust defense against modern cyber threats. We help healthcare organizations strengthen data security and maintain patient trust while working toward compliance with healthcare regulations.

Frequently asked questions

What types of healthcare data are most frequently targeted by attackers?

Attackers typically target electronic health records, PHI, insurance data, and payment details due to their high value on the black market. These data types are central to many data breaches in the healthcare sector.

Do smaller healthcare providers face the same security challenges as large systems?

Yes, smaller healthcare providers face similar security challenges but often with fewer resources, making them particularly vulnerable to cyber threats and data breaches. They may lack the sophisticated defenses of larger healthcare organizations.

How do you secure healthcare data?

Securing healthcare data involves a layered approach, including role-based access, encryption, continuous monitoring, regular staff training, and strong vendor management, while aligning with regulatory requirements for healthcare data protection.

 

About Nord Security
The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About NordLayer
NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses – from the world’s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.

The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.

Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.