"S" Is for Security (and Storage)

"S" seems the operative letter at TechEd 2006, at least when it comes to storage and security, and the names of a pair of companies--Saflink and Spyrus--that have similiar products in the security space.

Among other secuirty devices and software, Spyrus pitches what it calls the Hydra Privacy Card, a USB 2.0 compliant flash card designed for FIPS 140-2 Level 3 security validation. It supposed a variety of cryptographic algorithms, including RSA 1024 and 2048, AES, SHA-1, Elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), and the like. In terms of standards, the device supports the Microsoft CryptoAPI, and various FIPS standards (DES, SHA, DSS, AES, and the like). Up to 2 GB of mass storage is provided by a removable and replaceable miniSD memory media. All data stored on this media is encrypted with Suite B algorithms, with high-performance encryption delivering data access at rates in excess of 20 MB per second. The co-resident Hydra PC authentication services mean that all data stored on the device is securely linked to the identity of its owner, which delivers strong, personal control of and accountability for all data stored on the device. An optional ID verifier sleeve fits over the USB flash drive for biometric (fingerprint) access control.

Similar in appearance (if not functionality) is the Saflink EntryPoint Standard Editioneliminates password inconvenience by using biometric authentication. It utilizes a 2GB USB 2.0 dedicated security device, client software, and USB tokens to provide security for Windows logon. There are several layers of security, including the inability to copy the USB drive. To connect the EntryPoint appliance to a domain, simply mount the appliance to a server rack and connect an Ethernet cable from the appliance to an Active Directory network. Once physically installed, administrators can run through the Initial Appliance Setup Web application to con.gure EntryPoint specifically to their Active Directory network.

Posted by Jon Erickson at 02:37 PM  Permalink