A segment of this population of users has proven to be dishonest, unreliable, and dangerous. Because the Internet was designed as an open system, there was little provision for basic security. The current Internet technology does not include a standard for reliably identifying individuals or servers that are connected to the Internet. The standard Internet technology passes data in open text allowing easy access for prying eyes. These basic security vulnerabilities, as well as others, make this data transport medium a technology with major security concerns.
Most companies rely heavily on private computer networks to support their business activities.
These networks are generally more expensive than using the Internet for transporting business information. In addition, companies are under great pressure to open their networks in order to support home and mobile workers, provide Internet access, and create opportunities for business. These economic pressures have persuaded most organizations to move toward the expanded use of the Internet. The increasing openness of private networks to the Internet makes them more vulnerable to attack. The Internet is being used for purposes far beyond its original design intent.