LOCAL COMPANIES are vulnerable to computer hackers who, with the click of a button, can completely cripple the operations of a business. But equally threatening are internal employees with access to critical computer network areas. Illuminat Jamaica in conjunction with Enterasys Networks, a US-based computer network protection provider, recently launched Enterasys' highly rated network security solution, Dragon. The technology is aimed at local companies wishing to guard their computer operations against outside as well as internal intrusion.
Enterasys provides computer protection with its Intrusion Detection System (IDS) for 54 of the 56 major banks operating worldwide. Its local partner is Illuminat Jamaica, a division of the Trinidad and Tobago-based Neal & Massy and the leading provider of information and communications technology throughout the Caribbean. To date, several companies locally as well as companies throughout the region already utilise Enterasys protection systems.
With increased dependability on computer servers by commercial enterprises, vulnerability is heightened. Enterasys Network systems are able to scan for vulnerability, detect intrusion and protect against cyber attacks. In addition, its User Personalised Network programme is able to streamline internal networks by recognising users and automatically providing access to specific functions for particular individuals within organisations.
"A recent study by the FBI showed that 85 percent of all networks that have been hacked within the United States, the hackers came from inside the companies," said Norbert Lamenca, Enterasys' Channel Manager for Central America and the Caribbean. Mr. Lamenca was speaking at the recent launch of the products at the Hilton Kingston Hotel. "Imagine what it would be like if some unscrupulous individual within your company gained access to say - your payroll records," he said.
The User Personalised Network Programme is configured to instantly recognise users as soon as they log on, even if the user is operating remotely, and provide access only to those resources applicable to the particular user. Not only does this function protect critical operations, but also free up bandwidth space, optimising the capacity of networks and allowing more efficient use.
"Two out of every three companies in the US have lost money due to cyber attacks. One out of every 700 employees actively works against their organisation - disgruntled workers are everywhere. There are persons out there who could be harmful to your organisation. You have to take the precaution," Lamenca warned.
The solutions have the capacity for providing IT-based backup for information that might be considered critical to organisations. "Since September 11, it has been realised that it is very unwise to keep vital information in one single location," he noted.
Enterasys Network solutions consist of a number of easy-to-use products and applications that do not require technical knowledge. The family of products are geared to perform functions including the securing of information being transmitted via the Internet, as well as monitoring and reporting on attempted cyber attacks, even providing forensic information to investigators.
Its X-Pedition 1800 Security Router guards enterprises with branch offices transmitting from one location to another. The protection tool enables remote monitoring and diagnostics, while its Dragon 6.0 Intrusion Detection System is able to monitor firewalls, applications, web servers and even other intrusion detection products. The installations do not affect the speed or capacity of networks. "You have to commit yourself to protecting your organisation. It is very important," Lamenca said.
Enterasys' Dragon boasts a 100 per cent success rate and is presently rated by industry watchdogs as the number one IDS solution on the market. "The system will call you in the middle of the night, call your beeper or E-mail you if someone is trying to hack in," Lamenca informed.
Matthew Herron, Communications Manager of local partners Illuminat Jamaica, said the cost for the solutions vary depending on the function and size of the network. "It can range from US$18,000 to about US$70,000," he said. However, a proper assessment of the network for the participating company will have to be initially performed.
