New Ultra Safe key security and management solution to support elliptic curve cryptography

LOUDWATER, UK (April 24, 2012) - Ultra Electronics AEP Networks, the provider of trusted security, has announced the launch of Ultra Safe Keyper Plus, the first FIPS 140-3 level 4 ready hardware security module (HSM) and a new addition to its Keyper range. The Keyper range of products has been developed to support the highest levels of security available, providing the ultimate level of protection for businesses dealing with even the most sensitive data and information systems. The range is ideally suited to organisations deploying cryptographic systems, for certificate signing, code or document signing, bulk generation or ciphering of keys or data.

In these types of highly secure environments where the protection of cryptographic keys is essential, traditional security solutions are not enough and a separate HSM is required. The Keyper Plus product has been developed to support the international standard algorithm Suite B including elliptic curve (ECDSA, ECDH). The HSM's high assurance, tamper reactive mechanisms defend intellectual property rights, assets and reputation through strengthened security keys, and processes. A unique additional feature includes the separation of Crypto Officer and Security Officer roles, to clearly delineate the responsibilities of key back up, restoration and deletion to the Crypto officer, from the configuration and management of the HSM itself to the Security officer.

The Keyper range is built around AEP Networks unique next generation flexible crypto platform that provides the highest level of hardware and software assurance (FIPS 140-3, Level 4 Ready), with tamper-reactive erasure of keys when hostile interference is detected. Based on this core technology, AEP Networks has built a product to cater to the highest assurance requirements of the PKI, VPN and DNSSEC markets, such as online content providers, gaming companies, validation/certification authorities and internet domain name organisations, particularly where Suite B or elliptic curve cryptography is emerging as an industry standard requirement.

Mark Darvill, Chief Technology Officer at AEP Networks commented: "Organisations are facing an uncertain time; the security landscape is rapidly evolving and sensitive data is increasingly coming under attack. Security technologies need to evolve with these threats providing higher levels of protection. Organisations responsible for identity assurance (signing/validation) in particular, need to be certain their data is safe."

Mark Darvill continued: "The Keyper Plus HSM, provides the highest levels of security available, providing organisations with the assurance that the cryptographic keys they manage are stored in a totally secure environment."

Key features

• Design - fully integrated module with smart card reader, PIN entry and cryptographic processing within a single device
• Scalability - up to 16 modules can be connected to multiple hosts. Not only this but firmware and algorithms can be upgraded in the field
• Manageability - choice of user interfaces are available, including host PKCS#11 and Microsoft CAPI interfaces, with Microsoft CNG support pending. Its small footprint allows desktop use or rack mounting for ease of use in the enterprise space. It also features drivers for GNU Linux, Free BSD, Solaris and Windows
• Connectivity - connected via Ethernet offering greater scalability and flexibility. The HSM has comprehensive fault tolerance, maintaining connectivity under the most demanding of circumstances

The Keyper hardware security module is available in three main models offering various levels of scale, performance & functionality: Professional, Enterprise & Plus (Elliptic Curve).

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About Ultra Electronics AEP Networks
Ultra Electronics AEP Networks provides trusted security everywhere and secures data and voice communication regardless of device, environment or location. Delivering proven security architectures to more than 5,000 organisations all over the world including governments, enterprises and carriers, AEP Networks counts international governments, ICANN, VeriSign, Optus, Shell, Barclays, MasterCard and New York Metropolitan Transport Authority amongst its 1,000 blue chip customers.

AEP Networks develops the highest grade security technologies tested and accredited to industry security standards, including CoCo, FIPS 140-2 Level 4 and CAPS. Its extensive portfolio of products and solutions protect the integrity of very sensitive data and are extremely reliable, survivable and resilient.

Headquartered in Loudwater, United Kingdom, AEP Networks has key hub offices in Somerset, New Jersey, Malaysia and Australia. For more information, visit http://www.ultra-aep.com/

All brands and product name are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

For more information, please contact:
David Bell / Katie Swan
PR for AEP Networks
aepnetworks@speedcommunications.com
+44 207 842 3206