Traditional IT procurement mindset of Bangladeshi customers

Welcome to this exclusive interview with Tutul Siddique Arnob – Country Manager of Array Networks Inc. for Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Today, we will discuss the traditional IT procurement mindset of Bangladeshi customers, their reluctance to adopt new technologies, and the cybersecurity risks that arise from this approach.

Computer Bichitra: Bangladesh’s IT landscape has evolved over the years, yet we see that many organizations still follow a traditional IT procurement approach. Why do you think this mindset persists?

Tutul Siddique Arnob: hat’s a very relevant question. The traditional IT procurement mindset is primarily driven by cost considerations, compliance with outdated regulations, and a preference for tried-and-tested solutions. Many organizations in Bangladesh prioritize upfront costs rather than evaluating the long-term benefits of modern cybersecurity and networking solutions. As a result, they tend to follow market trends rather than proactively adopting innovative technologies.

C. B: This conservative approach – how does it impact cybersecurity?

T S Arnob: The consequences are severe. When businesses rely on legacy infrastructure and hesitate to upgrade to modern security solutions, they leave themselves vulnerable to advanced cyber threats. Hackers and cybercriminals constantly evolve their attack strategies, and relying on outdated security measures makes it easier for them to exploit vulnerabilities. This is why we see a rising number of cyberattacks, ransomware incidents, and data breaches in the country.

C. B: In recent years, we have witnessed several large-scale cyberattacks in Bangladesh. Do you think these incidents could have been prevented with better technology adoption?

T S Arnob: Absolutely. Most of these breaches occurred due to inadequate security postures, lack of real-time threat intelligence, and absence of robust security frameworks. If businesses and financial institutions had adopted advanced solutions such as next-generation firewalls, AI-powered Web Application Firewalls (WAF), and Zero Trust security models, many of these incidents could have been mitigated or even prevented entirely.

C. B: So, what needs to change in the IT procurement approach to enhance cybersecurity resilience?

T S Arnob: First and foremost, organizations need to shift their focus from short-term cost savings to long-term cybersecurity investments. Decision-makers should evaluate solutions based on their effectiveness in mitigating threats rather than just considering price. Secondly, awareness and education are key- CISOs and IT leaders must stay updated on the latest cybersecurity trends and best practices. Finally, regulatory bodies should push for stricter cybersecurity compliance to ensure businesses adopt modern security frameworks.

C. B: How is Array Networks helping organizations in Bangladesh overcome these challenges?

T S Arnob: At Array Networks, we provide advanced application delivery and security solutions that enable businesses to enhance their cybersecurity posture without complexity. Our solutions, such as Web Application Firewalls (WAF), SSL VPNs, and DDoS protection, are designed to protect against evolving cyber threats. Moreover, we actively engage with businesses, conduct cybersecurity awareness programs, and work closely with regulators to promote best practices.

C. B: That’s great to hear. Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to organizations in Bangladesh regarding their cybersecurity strategy?

T S Arnob: My advice is simple – don’t wait until an attack happens. Be proactive in securing your digital assets. Invest in the right cybersecurity solutions today to prevent costly breaches in the future. Partner with experienced vendors, conduct regular security audits, and most importantly, prioritize cybersecurity as a business enabler rather than just a compliance requirement.

C. B: Thank you, Tutul Siddique Arnob, for sharing these valuable insights. It was a pleasure speaking with you.

T S Arnob: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this important issue, and I hope this conversation helps drive a positive shift in Bangladesh’s IT and cybersecurity approach.

C. B: That’s all for today’s session. Stay tuned for more insights on technology and cybersecurity. Until next time, take care and stay secure! Tutul Siddique Arnob, thank you for joining us today.

Tutul Siddique Arnob: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss such a crucial topic.