Cyber threats are evolving, and South African businesses are scrambling to keep up. Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity, has launched a new Point of Presence (PoP) for cloud-delivered security services in South Africa, a move aimed at improving performance, reducing latency, and strengthening digital defences across the country.
At a time when cyberattacks are more frequent and sophisticated than ever, this infrastructure investment is designed to give businesses — both large and small — direct access to Cisco’s cloud-hosted security solutions. The PoP, which is carrier-neutral and backed by multiple redundant data centres, allows organisations to deploy Cisco Secure Access closer to their users, making security faster and more efficient.
A necessary shift in cybersecurity
For many organisations, traditional security models are no longer fit for purpose. With remote work and cloud adoption surging, outdated security tools struggle to keep up. Cisco Secure Access offers a modern approach, automating connectivity decisions across the internet, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and private applications. This reduces complexity, improves productivity, and ensures seamless, secure access to critical resources.
Fady Younes, Managing Director of Cybersecurity for Cisco in the Middle East and Africa, explains: “Threats are not only becoming more frequent but also increasingly sophisticated. Cisco recognises the importance of implementing modern cybersecurity measures that significantly reduce risk while meeting the needs of both end-users and IT staff. The new Point of Presence for Cisco’s converged cloud security Secure Service Edge (SSE) solution is founded on zero-trust principles.”
This zero-trust approach ensures that users and devices are continuously verified before being granted access to company networks, helping prevent unauthorised breaches and data leaks. With granular security controls and simplified IT management, businesses can operate with greater confidence in an unpredictable cyber landscape.
South Africa’s cybersecurity readiness: A wake-up call
Cisco’s latest Cybersecurity Readiness Index paints a stark picture: South Africa is largely unprepared for modern cyber threats. Only 5% of companies are classified as ‘mature’ in their security readiness, while 73% believe a cyber incident could disrupt their operations within the next two years. Even more concerning, just 31% of businesses feel very confident in their ability to defend against attacks with their current infrastructure.
This lack of preparedness highlights why investments like Cisco’s new PoP are so critical. As more businesses embrace digital transformation, secure and seamless connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Looking ahead: What this means for South African businesses
By bringing its cloud security services closer to local organisations, Cisco is offering a solution that is not only more effective but also more accessible. Lower latency means improved performance, while the carrier-neutral design ensures that businesses can integrate Cisco’s security solutions regardless of their existing network provider.
Cybersecurity in South Africa is at a crossroads. With the increasing digitisation of industries and the growing sophistication of cyber threats, organisations must take proactive steps to safeguard their data, customers, and operations. Cisco’s investment in a local PoP is a step in the right direction, but the onus is on businesses to prioritise their security posture and leverage the tools available to them.