Outdated network infrastructure is holding back the development of software-as-a-service (Saas), according to security vendor Check Point.

Saas is one of the key growth areas of 2008, especially providing security as a service.

But the outdated nature of many corporate networks is holding back the implementation of such services.

"Most of the network infrastructure was built around the turn of the century and was not built with enough scalability," said Check Point founder Gil Shewd.

"Many of the pipes today are not secure enough [for Saas]. The next generation of networks will be more on the Saas model, with more scalability and better reconfiguration models."

Shewd added that companies and their partners are much more interested in providing Saas, and that network infrastructure is not the only thing that will have to change.

Whole new business models will have to be worked out, but companies are recognising this and becoming more flexible in their approach to selling.

Relationships with partners will also have to be updated so that customers get a full range of services.