Two-Factor Authentication Uses Digital Certificates to Secure Academic Networks

Jersey City, NJ, August 06, 2009 - Computing-intensive MMORPGs are only one of the challenges of academic IT professionals. On top of addressing typical network administration issues such as hardware and firewalls, universities and schools also must comply with privacy laws such as HIPAA and FERPA. To aid in compliance, many academic institutions are adopting two-factor authentication to filter admission to their networks.

Comodo's cost-effective and flexible two-factor authentication solutions eliminate the need for cumbersome physical tokens and expensive new hardware. Comodo's innovative approach combines other popular ideas and allows organizations to use one-time passwords, challenge questions, secure cookie technology, or the industry's easiest two-factor technology, client-side digital certificates with user names and passwords.

As the second-largest issuer of high-assurance digital certificates, Comodo's certificate solutions have allowed prestigious universities, such as Stanford and Florida State University, to secure their domains and protect their interests. Customers continue to find Comodo certificates a cost-effective solution compared to other leading brands.

Generally, two-factor authentication requires at least two proofs of the user's identity before allowing the user access to sensitive systems. Usually, one of the factors is a password. The other factor can be something the user has, such as a digital certificate or a physical token, or even a biometric characteristic, such as a fingerprint or retinal scan. Adding a second layer adds added protection against irresponsible users sharing passwords, or hackers using brute force.

Schools and universities using Microsoft® SharePoint or Outlook® Web Access® can now take advantage of Comodo's two-factor trial offer. The trial can be used on 25 PCs, at no charge. Deployment of the trial is essentially hands-free with Comodo Two-Factor's easy-to-use administration module. To register for a free two-factor demo, call 1-888-256-2609. Outside the US call 1-703-637-9631, or register online at comodo.com/two-factor and click on "try an interactive demo."

COMODO PROTECTION FOR ENTERPRISES

Comodo is a leading global provider of Identity and Trust Assurance services on the Internet. Comodo offers a comprehensive array of PKI Digital Certificates, eCommerce Acceleration and Infrastructure Security solutions including Network Vulnerability Scanning and PCI compliance services.

Continual innovation, a core competence in PKI and a commitment to reversing the growth of Internet crime distinguish the Comodo companies as vital players in the Internet's ongoing development.  The Comodo companies secure and authenticate online transactions and communications for over 200,000 business customers. Offices in the US, UK, China, India, Romania and the Ukraine serve enterprises around the world.

Comodo provides businesses and consumers with the intelligent security, authentication and assurance services necessary to establish and ensure trust in online transactions. For more information, visit www.enterprise.comodo.com.

Comodo -- Creating Trust Online™. For more information, visit Comodo's website.

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Comodo -- Creating Trust Online®
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