Lenovo opens cyber hub in Israel with Ben-Gurion University

Lenovo has created a cybersecurity innovation centre with a specialist Israel-based university to combat the growing security threats facing technology executives worldwide.

The Lenovo Cybersecurity Innovation Center (LCIC), in collaboration with Israel-based cybersecurity research institution, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev,  will specialise in innovation in zero-trust architecture in hardware and below-OS security, and function as a hub for developing advanced security solutions. It will also offer an attestation lab for Lenovo customers and access to industry insights and information exchange through an on-site briefing centre.

Cyber threats are becoming more severe and diverse, and Lenovo says establishing the LCIC will help combat these threats, enabling more strategic and effective responses. According to the company’s global Data for Humanity report, IT security is the top priority when investing in digital transformation solutions for small, medium, and large businesses.

A global nexus of security innovation

Be'er Sheva is home to several global technology companies' cybersecurity R&D centres, and Israel is widely regarded as a leading cybersecurity industry hub. The LCIC will be managed and staffed by cybersecurity professionals from Lenovo and Ben-Gurion University, providing services for businesses and consumers.

“Cybersecurity is one of the top priorities of CIOs today,” says Nima Baiati, Executive Director and GM, Commercial Cybersecurity Solutions, Lenovo. “Lenovo opening the new security innovation centre with Ben-Gurion University gives us access to a global nexus of security innovation, [gives] our customers access to world-leading experts, and will help us create even stronger products across our portfolio.”

Lenovo plans to incorporate solutions developed at the LCIC into its existing ThinkShield portfolio of hardware, software, and services, which offer advanced security features to businesses. The portfolio includes built-in platform security and device protection, as well as tools for threat and data protection and security management to safeguard critical business information.

“Ben-Gurion University is committed to maintaining its cybersecurity research leadership not just in Israel, but also globally, and to apply the most recent academic knowledge and research to real-world issues,” says Yuval Elovici, Head of Ben-Gurion University Cyber Security Research Centre. “As part of this vision, we are eager to team up with industry leaders who share our values and aspire to serve as a model for the industry by actively pursuing cybersecurity excellence and innovation. 

“We are excited to work together in our jointly established centre for new cybersecurity technologies with a particular emphasis on zero-trust architecture and next-generation security innovation. The centre’s work will become part of Lenovo's cybersecurity portfolio and help further drive security innovation for Lenovo’s customers.”