What Is Logical Access Control?

Now that the connected world is, well, more relevant than ever, there is more discussion around how to keep our devices, the networks those devices reside upon, and the data transferred from one device to another, secure. The vulnerability of connected devices, including physical security devices like video cameras and access control readers, will continue to be a factor in the adoption of networked-based systems, so organizations must mandate specific security parameters to ensure rules are followed. Additionally, technology manufacturers are continually trying to determine what vulnerabilities may be on the horizon and finding solutions to mitigate the risks inherent in certain levels of connectivity via a network. Enter logical access control, stage left.

So what is logical access control?

Organizations worldwide use a broad spectrum of logical access controls to protect hardware from unauthorized access, including password programs, biometrics, smart cards, or tokens to identify and screen users and access levels. The approach to logical access controls used in businesses usually is dependent on the business leaders or IT administrators. But in government applications, federal agencies must comply with federal guidelines to protect the data being transferred.

Regardless of the type of business or the market, stakeholders have to be vigilant in protecting their data, assets, and infrastructure. Here is a detailed look at some of the options available today to ensure your logical access is up to par:

Smart Card Readers

Smart card readers protect login to PCs and networks, encrypt hard drives, and digitally sign and encipher email, leading to a wide variety of applications. Available as contact, contactless, or mobile options, these readers provide a high level of security to ensure your data is protected. Identiv’s portfolio of smart card readers offers multi-layered security, preventing unauthorized access to critical systems, and protecting identities. View & Buy ›

Tokens

Compact tokens enable secure mobility for mobile desktop applications and contactless smart card tokens. It combines something familiar, such as a password, to something new, the token, to enable two-factor authentication. Identiv’s uTrust Token Family offers up secure mobility for desktop applications in PC connected mode and a contactless smart card token in autonomous mode for a host of contactless applications. View & Buy ›

Mobile Apps

Advanced mobile apps support CAC, PIV, and derived credential multi-factor access to secure web browsers, and deliver the ability to sign, encrypt, and decrypt emails, and secure app development. Identiv’s Thursby’s Sub Rosa suite of products offers all and more, delivering the ability to access two-factor websites, sign, encrypt, and decrypt emails, view, edit, and create calendar events, and edit and sign PDF documents from your iPhone, iPad, or Android phone or tablet.
View iOS Apps ›    View Android Apps ›

Organizations are continually finding ways to improve IT security, implement current security practices, and meet new security mandate compliance.

Overall, it is an essential part of protecting one of your most valuable assets.