As information security issues director of the Government Accountability Office, the investigative arm of Congress, Wilshusen knows more about the challenges government agencies face in securing their IT systems than anyone else. Wilshusen is a familiar face on Capitol Hill, testifying numerous times a year about government IT security.

In the first of a three-part interview, Wilshusen discusses:

• Overall security of federal computer systems.
• Progress federal agencies are making in securing their IT systems.
• Soon-to-be released GAO audits on the Federal Desktop Core Configuration and Trusted Internet Connection initiatives.

Wilshusen, who was interviewed in his Washington office by GovInfoSecurity.com's Eric Chabrow, leads information security-related studies and audits of the federal government. He has more than 27 years of auditing, financial management and information systems experience. Before joining GAO in 1997, Wilshusen served as a senior systems analyst at the Department of Education as well as the controller for the North Carolina Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources.