Device Certificate

The Rise of Device Certificates

Modern networking devices are now capable of a vast range of communication, organization, and information capabilities. While seemingly commonplace today, these capabilities were unimaginable just ten, even five, years ago. As a result, the concept of authentication security must be reexamined. These devices are redefining the concept of staff resources: the workforce is now envisaged on a global scale, in virtual space, and on the eternal time clock. Business has no boundaries as companies and governments alike are empowered by the advanced network capabilities hardware devices can bring. Yet so too are the hackers and other online criminals, residing ubiquitously in cyberspace for an opportunity to intercept sensitive network information. Like the secure https Web sites that prevailed after the widespread incorporation of SSL encryption protocol and certificate authentication methods, the utility of device certificates is on the rise as a cost-effective solution for enhancing network security.

Device Certificates offer Authentication Security of Network Devices

Device certificates are used to identify the hardware or network devices to which they are issued. They also provide file encryption of outbound network communication and data. The device certificate is enabled with the same level of certificate authentication and encryption security as other PKI certificates. Based upon the same x.509 certificate standard, the device identifier and associated public key are bound together upon issuance of the device certificate by a trusted certification authority which, like Entrust, operates as part of a comprehensive PKI arrangement. The device certificate can be installed on network servers, routers, modems, client machines or any other hardware device that operates on the given network.

Entrust's Government-Strength Security Solutions for Network User and Network Devices

In the effort to prevent inadvertent devices from accessing their protected networks, businesses are reinforcing security through the authentication of all network and hardware devices. Device certificates allow for another layer of security by only permitting network access of specifically authorized devices when operated by specifically authorized users.

As a result, organizations are able to control access for both the user and the networking device in one comprehensive security strategy. Meeting the security requirements of major government and industry regulations, Entrust offers government-strength security solutions for organizations seeking to reinforce their network security. Entrust security solutions are designed to provide stronger internal controls and access security through the deployment of device certificates, hardware and other management applications, allowing organizations to securely extend business services without overextending the enterprise.

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