Vulnerability research market grows

It is becoming increasingly evident that research on network security is crucial for the protection of critical telecommunications and computing systems. This is especially true considering the popularity of more powerful mobile computing devices and new technologies such as cloud computing and VoIP.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan finds that the market reported 308 vulnerabilities in 2009 — a slight decline from the 422 vulnerabilities reported in 2008. Despite this drop, the number of reported vulnerabilities increased each quarter and is expected to increase steadily in the future.

In 2009, companies invested considerably in vulnerability research despite the challenges faced during the economic downturn. This trend will continue as established researchers become more proficient, and as both customers and software vendors realize the value of vulnerability intelligence services.

Organizations with contributor compensation programs are attracting large numbers of researchers with offers of financial rewards.

As demonstrated by the sudden rise of new entrants, contributor compensation programs can lower entry barriers and encourage individual researchers to make a more valuable impact on the state of security.

For now, this industry will deal with several polarized points of debate and will not completely tap into its growth potential.