Keep Sensitive Network Assets Isolated and Protected with NIAP-Certified Secure KVM Switches

As stories about highly sensitive data security breaches within the U.S. government and U.S. military make headlines, government agencies are demanding a higher level of security from their IT vendors.

Internal Threats

While we may still envision the remote "hacker" trying to break through a firewall when we think of IT security threats, networks are, in fact, most vulnerable to data breaches from internal desktop computers and other peripheral devices.

The NIAP (National Information Assurance Partnership), which agencies rely on to test and certify the security capabilities of IT products, emphasizes the ability to combat these internal threats. They have rigorous requirements for products that connect with and manage users' peripheral devices, such as network switches. 

A switch which is not secure provides an open door for in-house users to: 

• Access or remove restricted internal information
• Introduce malware network-wide
• Physically breach the device hardware

More Secure KVM Switch Technology

IT product manufacturers are enhancing the security capabilities of their KVM switches to address these challenges. Much of this involves restricting the types of peripherals that can connect to a secure switch. Some specific features include: 

1. Isolated Channels. Separate circuits for each data path on a switch prevent data transfer between authorized and unauthorized channels. 
2. One-Way Communication. Prevents users from transferring data back out (to an external device) through the switch.
3. Flash Drive Restriction. External storage devices are blocked to prevent exposure to malware.
4. Memory Clearing. Secure KVM switches will continuously clear their internal memory after every data transmission to protect against memory mining. 
5. Tampering Protection. Device firmware cannot be reprogrammed. And if the physical casing is opened, the switch renders itself inoperable. 

Tripp Lite Secure KVM Switches

Tripp Lite's new B002 Secure KVM Switch series has achieved NIAP PP3.0 compliance (the latest NIAP certification). This line of 11 new models includes all of the enhanced security features listed above, and some models with additional features like: 

• CAC (Common Access Card) ports supporting smart card readers
• Support for DisplayPort 4K x 2K high-resolution UHD video (optimal for satellite imaging) 
• TAA-Compliance for GSA Schedule purchases

While it was designed to meet the strict security requirements of government agencies, NIAP certification does not prevent a product from being used in non-government applications. Healthcare providers, private corporations and any other organizations seeking to protect sensitive data from internal threats can take advantage of the same level of protection this class of product provides. 

Click here to contact your local Accu-Tech representative for more information about new NIAP-Certified Secure KVM Switches from Tripp Lite.

Content provided by Tripp Lite.