Multi-factor authentication for mobile users

DigitalPersona announced the newest version of DigitalPersona Pro Enterprise has support for a variety of new authentication credentials. With the software, organizations can now mix and match different ways of securely identifying themselves to Microsoft Windows and to applications – from PINs, passwords and smartcards to biometrics, contactless proximity cards and Bluetooth phones.

The software suite gives organizations the ability to define, deploy, enforce and report upon authentication policies for both individual computers and shared-user workstations. Strong authentication can be layered on top of PC- and cloud-based applications that use password authentication without requiring application changes.

Underlying passwords can be randomized and hidden from the user, preventing people from accessing corporate applications and data from uncontrolled devices. Furthermore, the solution enables Bluetooth phones to act like proximity cards – but without the burden of opening an app or carrying an additional smartcard or key fob.

With DigitalPersona Pro Enterprise, IT administrators can use Active Directory and familiar Group Policy tools to specify which authentication credentials are to be used by different groups of users. For example, clinicians in a hospital can be required to use their fingerprint along with a contactless proximity card to access patient records. Remote users connecting over a VPN can be required to use a password and have their Bluetooth phone with them in order to login.

In addition, DigitalPersona Pro Enterprise provides both self-service and IT-assisted emergency access recovery that helps users avoid being locked out of their computer if they ever lose a card or forget their password.