At AEP Networks we have a strong connection to government and the public sector. In fact, many of our security products are designed specifically with public sector challenges in mind. In this issue of AEP Networker, we feature stories about security technology in use by government and shed some light on enterprise compliance with government regulations. As always, we’d like to hear from you. Please send your comments and questions to editor@aepnetworks.com.

Pat Donnellan, CEO

AEP is now a member of America’s Border Security Group (ABSG). The group is a collection of organizations that provide technology for a comprehensive border protection system in line with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Secure Border Initiative. The ABSG solution includes AEP Networks’ NIST-approved Virtual Private Network (VPN) security software solution.

America’s Border Security Group uses commercial high-speed mobile broadband technology and IP applications to mobilize communications systems and integrate sensors, networks and people. The solution speeds the flow of information to border enforcement agents, enabling them to respond more quickly to security threats. All ABSG members are trusted government partners and are led by Ericsson Inc.

AEP is pleased to announce that Net Remote is now approved to ‘Enhanced Grade’ standard by the UK Communications Electronics Security Group (CESG).

Net Remote is a portable Ethernet encryption device that home and mobile workers can use to connect directly to internal networks from their PCs. The system is designed for critical communications networks including military, diplomatic and criminal intelligence systems, child protection, immigration and international collaboration.

Under the CESG Assisted Products Scheme (CAPS), Net Remote is assured to provide confidential access to applications and data over remote office LAN, broadband over DSL or cable and Ethernet enabled Wi-Fi. Net Remote protects against network threats and sophisticated intrusion attacks.

Remote working – also known as teleworking, telecommuting or flexible working – can increase operational efficiencies and improve work life for your employees. Perhaps most importantly, remote working also allows your business to comply with government regulations and mandates that call for organizations to be prepared in times of emergency. As a result, many businesses are putting remote working in place.

So, how do you begin teleworking for your company? Security is the critical element in enabling teleworker access that allows for continuity of operations while assuring that your sensitive information remains protected. Application layer VPNs have become the technology of choice for remote and mobile working. These VPNs allow mobile workers to securely access their organizations’ data and applications from their PCs.

Choosing a VPN can be a difficult decision. In “Choosing an Effective Teleworker Access Solution”, a whitepaper from AEP Networks, you can find out what key features you should evaluate when purchasing a VPN.

The VPN you choose must provide a solid solution for federal compliance, mobility, productivity and disaster recovery operation continuity. AEP can help you implement a cost effective and secure teleworking solution.

Are you knee-deep in enterprise compliance programs like Sarbanes-Oxley and HIPAA? Or perhaps your CIO is breathing a sigh of relief, thankful to have survived the process in one piece. The good news is that organizations are beginning to see concrete business benefits from regulatory compliance.

A good compliance strategy doesn’t just put your business in line with government regulations, it can actually improve business performance.

For example, reducing IT risks can decrease overall corporate risks, making your business more attractive to investors and minimizing the energy and cost of external audits. Uncovering IT inefficiencies and weaknesses streamlines daily communications. Perhaps most importantly, a compliance program gives you an opportunity to analyze existing business processes and improve the overall security and efficiency of your infrastructure.

Read about an AEP customer who increased efficiencies by implementing a HIPAA-compliant VPN solution.