Connecting to Secure Government Networks - The role of GSI, GCSX and other secure networks in enabling Government Transformation

Secure networks such as the Government Secure Intranet (GSI) and Government Connect Secure Extranet (GCSX), are key enablers of the UK’s Transformational Government agenda and National Security Strategy.

The ability to securely share information across all forms of government supports the vision of joined-up government services (‘tell us once’), enhances the co-ordination of the UK’s civil contingency planning, while also improving overall cost effectiveness. Gaining compliance with the Code of Connection (CoCo) that gives organisations access to secure networks such as GSI and GCSX, reduces the reliance on removable media such as laptops and external drives, as well as a reliance on couriers and the Royal Mail to physically transfer sensitive data.

The hard work and commitment that has helped achieve this compliance warrants acknowledgement and praise. With this heightened capability however, comes increased risk, which was highlighted as a high priority within the UK Government’s 2009 Cyber Security Strategy. The strategy states that "each public sector organisation is responsible for managing its own information risks" and suggests that they seek assistance from members of the CESG Listed Advisor Scheme (CLAS) of which VEGA is a part.

As the sensitivity of the information accessible by those within an organisation increases, so too does the risk of this data being misused or misplaced. A breakdown in data handling means organisations can quickly find themselves exposed to a loss of reputation, loss of public confidence, and the very real threat of financial penalty, all due to a failure to meet increasingly stringent security policies.

VEGA is a professional services company that delivers technology-enabled change in complex environments, often where security and resilience are key. We have an established track record of working across Government, providing strategic advice and technological expertise to help support the secure transfer of data. Our information security experts played a significant role in securing the Government’s eDisposals procurement portal, and supported the Government Connect programme to ensure that all 375 English and Welsh Local Authorities gained the necessary information assurance accreditation to connect to GCSX.

'Connecting to Secure Government Networks - The role of GSI, GCSX and other secure networks in enabling Government Transformation' constitutes some of VEGA’s latest work and thinking around information assurance and security compliance, and the benefits they can provide to organisations across the public sector and industry.