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Network security specialist iBoss announced a location-based security solution called Web and Mobile Device Security that featuring expanded technology integration with Smart WiFi from Ruckus Wireless.
Integration with Ruckus WiFi allows IT managers to bind a personally owned device like a smartphone or tablet to the network directory, and then dynamically apply directory workgroup policies to that device, depending on where that device is physically located.
The solution is aimed at business of all sizes, but is primed for networks that implement a wireless bring-your-own-device (BYOD) network.
“Successful BYOD programs need greater flexibility in security and MDM policies to adapt to the influx of devices entering the workplace and how employees engage with those devices,” Paul Martini, CEO and co-founder of iBoss, told eWEEK. “The one-size-fits approach to BYOD is shortsighted, and winds up negatively impacting worker productivity. Adding location-based security measures allows employees access to applications and WiFi access points that are based on his physical location.”
Martini pointed out a good example of this is in a research and development (R&D) environment. It may not be ok to enable a devices camera in an R&D lab while it’s perfectly fine to do so in the cafeteria.
Incorporated directly within organizations’ Web security protocols, the solution allows IT departments to develop dynamic security policies aligned with users’ locations, and to understand data flow in and out of the network regardless of device, user or port.
The solution allows users to employ different policies while an individual moves around a building, as well as the ability to correlate a network breach to a specific physical location is just as powerful.
For example, if a new infection is detected on the network and iBoss can tell the user that the infection occurred in the conference room while visitors were in the office, it can shed light on how to be proactive at preventing such an infection in the future.
“Ruckus has the ability to geolocate an individual within a building using their access points. iBoss has the unique patented ability to correlate physical location information to a specific policy. In addition, iBoss can use this information to correlate network reporting events to a physical location,” Martini explained. “Combining the physical location information gained from Ruckus’s access points, iBoss can bring a whole new level of insight to network events such as the physical location of where a device infection occurred on the network. It can also use this information to provide flexible policy that enables an organization to perform more efficiently and effectively.”
The platform also provides advanced SSL and application tools for monitoring of channels such as social media, as well as bandwidth management and location-based policy controls.
“The growth of WiFi devices will only continue to increase exponentially. Virtually every mobile device has WiFi capabilities and have the computing power of a full laptop or desktop,” Martini said. “Having such a powerful computer in the palm of your hand comes with security risks. This must be taken into account and mobile devices should be treated with the same level of security as computers within the organization.”
A recent Gartner predicted that 20 percent of all BYOD programs would fail by 2016 because mobile device management (MDM) programs are too restrictive.