Although relatively new, the wireless local area network (WLAN) security technologies market has been experiencing tremendous growth as wireless technology becomes more widespread. However, constantly changing standards, protocols, and specifications are creating confusion in the market. End users are being forced to contemplate upgrading or even replacing their earlier deployments. With so much uncertainty in the market, questions on interoperability, upgradeability, and compatibility between the various standards and protocols abound. While the emergence of new security standards such as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and 802.11i is likely to clarify this situation to some extent, currently market participants face the tough task of sorting out the prevailing confusion.

This research is a detailed analysis of the global market for WLAN security technologies. The scope of the research includes dedicated security appliances; mobile virtual private networks (mobile VPNs); stand-alone WLAN security software; and performance monitoring and intrusion detection systems. It discusses major issues affecting the market such as the possible effects of industry-wide standards and the legislative framework governing wireless LANs.

Strong WLAN Adoptions Expected to Further Expand the Potential Market

WLAN is becoming ubiquitous and its adoption across the world is increasing rapidly. Enterprises are shifting to WLAN technology as they realize its advantages of huge productivity gains through mobility and instant access to information and standards that ensure interoperability of WLAN equipment. This is expected to drive strong growth in the WLAN security market. "Since WLAN technology is used to transmit sensitive data and the possibility of that data going astray exists, the need for a solution to secure it is expected to continue," remarks the analyst of this research.

While products based upon WLAN security standards are expected to secure a majority of the deployments, they may not be suitable for certain applications or industries that require additional measures. With customers increasingly looking for solutions that extend beyond simply security, the potential for participants that can develop products with more robust feature sets is considerable.

Competition from Existing Companies Likely to Pose a Tough Challenge

Many WLANs are being deployed in existing networks that have pre-installed security solutions from incumbent network solutions providers. This poses a considerable competitive threat to the new WLAN security solutions providers. Existing solutions providers have a significant advantage in terms of established relationships with clients, potentially lower total cost of ownership (TCO), and more than adequate security solutions.

"Forming partnerships with these providers may be the best strategy to gain entry into enterprise deployments," says the analyst. New strategic relationships between vendors are also increasing in the attempt to provide comprehensive packages.