IT contractors have been advised that perimeter network defence alone is not sufficient to combat the variety of cyber attacks that can threaten a network.

Instead, security systems must take a "defence in depth" approach which focuses on protecting both the confidentiality and integrity of corporate information, according to Rob Elliss, vice-president of sales EMEA for SafeNet.

This process is becoming more complex with the advent of cloud computing and software-as-a-service, which blur the definition of what is regarded as the perimeter of the network, Mr Ellis claims.

Increased use of portable devices in particular provides cyber criminals with a way of bypassing perimeter security and attacking data.

Security systems must there work with each application and protect them individuals if security is to be maintained, Mr Ellis concludes.

Another area which would require this defence in depth approach is access to Wi-Fi systems.

Earlier this week, networking solutions company Brocade advised that Wi-Fi security needed to be re-thought, in order to provide protection without reducing accessibility speed.