Oxford Computer Group Replaces Weak Passwords with Smart Card Based Authentication
9 April 2008 - Leading Identity & Access solutions provider, Oxford Computer Group (OCG), today announced that it has developed a White Paper and a Workshop to help solve the needs of organisations that are experiencing security risks linked to password based single factor authentication. Single factor authentication, such as password protected credentials are considered a weak security arrangement. Passwords can be vulnerable, but the deployment of complex and more secure passwords can present usability issues, administration overloads and costs associated with users forgetting passwords. As a result many companies are seeking cost effective and secure authentication solutions which are easy to deploy and manage. OCG is a leading global provider of Microsoft-based Identity & Access (IDA) solutions and training. The company's experience in access solutions and credential management created an awareness of the issues around passwords and the growing demand for smart card based strong authentication. OCG provide strong authentication solutions with integrated credential lifecycle management. These solutions provide secure authentication along with efficient administration. An effective certificate lifecycle management solution includes the process and technology to automate the management of cards and certificates including workflow, approval, delegated administration, and self service. OCG has developed a Strong Authentication Discovery Workshop to help organisations plan, budget and deploy such solutions. The workshop focuses on the business and technical aspects of delivering a strong authentication solution, along with the processes, procedures and tools for effective administration. It includes a review of the business' requirements, an evaluation of the impacted IT infrastructure, as well as identification of critical success factors and service levels. It also provides a platform for learning, helping an organisation to make effective decisions and plans, as well as realise their security aspirations. OCG deliver smart card based strong authentication solutions to customers who value security, usability and agility. The business has invested in security services and solutions to complement its existing identity management capabilities, and has recruited some of the industries leading security and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) experts. David Dowdall, UK Channel and Business Manager, Gemalto comments, "Gemalto see OCG as a major partner in Europe to drive forward our SmartCard/Authentication technology. OCG are ideally placed as experts in Identity & Access Management, and specialists in Microsoft's ILM Technology. This knowledge and OCG's background in delivering innovative and cost effective solutions to public and corporate sectors ensures that our customers, in partnership with OCG and Gemalto, will receive secure, robust and flexible solutions." OCG has also recently published a White Paper, ‘Active Directory Certificate Services and Certificate Lifecycle Manager' that explores many of the business drivers for a Microsoft centric Certificate and Card Management System (CCMS) - a term coined to describe the conjoined capabilities of Active Directory Certificate Services and Identity Lifecycle Manager. The paper examines the challenges and opportunities of implementing a CCMS solution from the perspectives of design, implementation and operations. About Oxford Computer Group
Oxford Computer Group (OCG) is a Microsoft Gold Partner specializing in Identity & Access (IDA) management. With operations in North America, the UK Benelux and Germany, OCG have an enviable repository of expertise, solution components and training courses. OCG have deployed 300+ enterprise wide identity and access solutions and trained 3000+ people on Microsoft IDA technologies. We understand identity and access management - benefit from our experience and capability. For more information visit www.oxfordcomputergroup.com/authentication
9 Apr 2008 18:05:13 (Source: Oxford Computer Group)
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