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| ntl:Telewest Business Strengthens Authentication Capabilities for Remote Worker Services ntl:Telewest Business has strengthened its authentication practices for services that enable remote workers to access corporate networks. The two-factor authentication services will give private and public sector customer's greater capabilities to positively identify remote workers when they attempt access. This added layer of security will harden network defences for businesses seeking to extend flexible working practices and local authorities needing to comply with the new GCSx Code of Connection, which states that all public sector workers must adhere to higher level security controls when remotely accessing internal systems. It uses technology from CRYPTOCard, a developer of two-factor authentication (2FA) technology. The reliance of workers accessing corporate networks when away from the office has heightened the security requirements for organisations needing to manage an increasingly mobile workforce. This can expose organisations to a multitude of security risks, which could result in customer and public information being viewed on the wrong side of a corporate firewall. Two-factor authentication delivers a higher level of authentication assurance, in the form of a one-time-password token used in conjunction with the user's Personal Identification Number (PIN). The new service works as a two-factor authentication solution, which requires each user to enter a one-time password before they are allowed to access corporate network resources. This eliminates weak 'static' passwords that can be easily cracked or hacked and could be forgotten or mismanaged by the user. IT managers can choose whether to roll out the passwords as hardware tokens or in software form, such as SMSs, depending on the organisation's preferences. Flexible working is revolutionising working practices in the UK with its ability to improve work/life balance and enable cost and environmental savings. The widespread availability of high-speed broadband connections has made it comparatively simple to grant workers remote access to company networks. Ultimately compliance with flexible working practices will be made easier as businesses and public sector bodies become satisfied that their sensitive data is secure. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Computing News :: home page |