VPN still necessary to safeguard secure access under Windows 7

Published 20th November 2009

17th November 2009

VPN still necessary to safeguard secure access under Windows 7

Security best practices still essential as Windows 7 proves vulnerable


With the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system, Windows 7, proving vulnerable when security tested, secure communications specialist NCP engineering encourages all businesses to review their security measures and consider adopting a virtual private network to ensure business protection.

Recent tests have shown that the User Account Control did not catch seven out of ten malware items when run on the OS.* Moreover, secure communications remain a required extra for all businesses.

NCP engineering director, Simon Ford, stated: “Despite the huge improvements to security that Windows 7 provides, users still have to protect access to corporate data and ensure that data transmission is secured through encryption. It is incumbent on all businesses to deploy their own protection to ensure the continuity of their business and the safety of their data. Users cannot rely on new safety features or the novelty of a new system alone - it is an unfortunate fact of life that secure communication tools, firewall and anti-virus all remain required safeguards. To get the most out of the new operating system, businesses are encouraged to install IPSec VPN when they upgrade.”

Staff distributed across multiple sites and using several devices to access a corporate network remain at high risk as this profile provides more opportunities for hackers to target.

Simon concluded: “Security is often seen as a hurdle to productivity, but on the other side of the coin productivity is nil when malware shuts down the business’ network. Businesses can rely on the next generation of VPN - new IPsec, which convulsively beats SSL. Modern security solutions really enable mobile workers to perform anywhere, anytime, anyhow across a range of mobile devices - with one click solutions that don’t impair the users’ experience.”

NCP engineering provided the first Universal IPSec VPN Client for Windows 7 32/64-bit in February 2009.

-ENDS-

Notes
* http://www.theregister.co.uk/2009/11/04/naked_win7_security/


About NCP engineering GmbH
NCP, headquartered in Nuremberg, Germany, is a provider of application and industry-neutral communication software for highly secure data transmission in public networks and the Internet. Core competencies are in the areas of Remote Access, IP-Routing, VPN and Firewall Technologies, Identity and Access Management (IAM), Network Access Control (NAC) as well as strong Authentication and Integration of PKI-Infrastructures. Under the guiding principle of "Secure Communications," the firm develops products and solutions for the areas of mobile computing, teleworking, e-commerce, online banking, production data acquisition, system control (remote maintenance) and branch office networking. NCP’s technology guarantees integration and compatibility with products from other manufacturers. NCP relies on collaboration with technology partners and OEM partners, and on sales via distributors and certified system houses for national and international marketing.

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Georgina Heaume / Jared Foley
Spreckley Partners Ltd
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