Johannesburg, 20 Apr 2009
Mobility is no longer just about providing executives with mobile e-mail. A growing number of employees are mobile workers, with specialised mobile device and data access requirements. Rising security issues are a big wake-up call as they put intellectual property at risk. For this reason, managing end-user devices has changed from being a necessary IT operation to being a strategic function within businesses, for several reasons.
Tasia Iconomou, HP Notebook Product Manager at Axiz, says while the need to meet service levels and improve productivity have propelled mobility onto the agenda, one of the most important reasons why these primary technology resources demand a lot of attention in the workplace today is because they hold the lifeblood of a business - its data.
"Once you`ve acknowledged that mobile devices are a fact of life, you face certain security issues. A major concern is that whether mobile productivity devices are owned by the business or by employees, corporate data will find its way onto them - and, very often, out your front door.
"Mobile devices have a way of being lost or stolen and becoming gold mines for thieves looking for sensitive information. And, as mobile devices connect to network resources intermittently, keeping tabs on them, their software and their data is a daunting management task, especially for IT departments already stretched thin."
Investing in advanced data protection software is critical in managing the proliferation of notebooks in the workplace. HP is a leader in security features that can enable the security of information on notebooks, as well as from unauthorised users. Iconomou takes us through some of the latest security technologies:
* HP SpareKey
Set up robust security for your notebook without the worry of being locked out in case of a forgotten password. This tool requires that you answer three personal questions that will identify yourself and let you gain access to your system.
* File Sanitiser for HP ProtectTools
Permanently "shred" selected files from your system with military-grade standard.
* Privacy Manager for HP ProtectTools
These built-in tools to protect you from identity theft while online offer encrypted instant messaging and e-mail, and digital signatures.
* Enhanced Pre-Boot Security
Improve the IT security in your environment by enabling pre-OS authentication using biometrics, smart cards and passwords for up to five users per system.
"In my experience of the successful adoption and implementation of mobile solutions, I don`t see why CIOs should shy away from this technology. When correctly utilised and managed, mobile solutions equip employees with the relevant tools to manage today`s dynamic and complex corporate environment. And for the company, the correct management of these mobile solutions brings cost savings and optimal efficiency."
For more information:
Tasia Iconomou
HP Notebook Product Manager, Axiz
Tel: 011 206-8093
E-mail: tasiai@axiz.co.za
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