B2Net sets its sights on the security market

Storage integrator B2Net has lifted the lid on plans to establish itself as a major player in the security market.

Arthur Barnes joined the company from services giant Capgemini in November to head up the nascent security division. The unit’s formation was fuelled by an increase in demand for advice on compliance and data security, said Barnes.

The firm will initially focus on providing security kit from the vendors already populating its storage-led portfolio.

“I am not ruling out the possibility that we might add new security vendors in the future, but it makes sense for us to increase engagements with the companies we already deal with,” he said.

David Ellis, director of e-security at distributor Computerlinks, added: “If B2Net chose to rush out and partner with lots of vendors, it could run the risk of spreading itself too thinly.”

Ed Callacher, security and networking divisional director at B2Net distribution partner Bell Micro, said moving into security was a good move as it is a “margin-rich area”.

He added: “Unlike other areas of IT spend, security projects cannot be easily postponed or cancelled, because they are often tied to a business imperative such as compliance or risk management.”