President Barack Obama's plan to get utilities, banks and other essential services to bolster defenses against hackers will be filled with technical standards and guidance on responding to attacks.

One thing will be missing — financial incentives to help pay for computer and network security upgrades — and that could mean many companies decide not to take part in the voluntary program.

"If the framework isn't cost effective and isn't supported by incentives, it's hard to see how it can work on a sustainable basis," Larry Clinton, president of the Internet Security Alliance, which represents General Electric Co., Boeing Co. and Wells Fargo & Co., said in a telephone interview.