Jericho finally sets out vision of open networks

The paper, released ahead of schedule, sets out the goals of the group and follows an extensive period of consultation from information security authorities and professionals.

It aims to formally set out what it means by "de-perimeterisation" or redrawing boundaries between an organisation's infrastructure and open networks.

David Lacey, chairman of the Jericho Forum and director of information security at the Royal Mail, said the paper heralds a change in the relationship organisations have with security vendors.

"This paper will shake up the standards community. Users have seized the agenda from vendors. It's a sign of the times and I expect other groups to follow this lead."

Paul Simmonds, head of information security at ICI, said vendors could now join the forum and participate fully.

"There has been a lot of pressure, particularly from the media, to get it out. But we needed to make sure it was right."

Simmonds added that open standards were essential to companies.

"The Jericho Forum is committed to open standards. However, most standards are created in isolation," he said. "We are the ones who have to make standards work. They must be fit for purpose."

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