Press Release

Centennial network protector scoops Techworld award

DeviceWall 4.0 named Security Software Product of the Year

Centennial Software’s endpoint security application, DeviceWall, has been named Security Software Product of the Year at the Techworld Awards 2006.

DeviceWall, which actively manages the use of portable devices such as USB drives, iPods and PDAs on the corporate network, has seen sales for April-May this year up 120 per cent compared to the same period in 2005.

Launched in March this year, DeviceWall 4.0 provides additional security for portable storage devices by automatically encrypting all data copied by authorised staff to USB drives – securing what is traditionally a highly insecure storage format. This ensures that confidential files remain safe even if the USB drive falls into the wrong hands. Recent research from Centennial revealing that two-thirds of people have mislaid a USB stick highlights how easily this can happen.

“It’s encouraging to see that not only is endpoint security recognised as a serious threat but our product is felt to offer the best means of protection for IT managers and wider business executives,” said Andy Burton, CEO of Centennial Software.

“Relying on perimeter security solutions will not stop unauthorised computer users removing files directly from company PCs or senior executives mislaying USB drives in taxis. The threat of internal data leakage is a serious issue and requires a new way of thinking about security.”

DeviceWall 4.0 is also able to recognise individual devices to provide network managers with more granular control. This allows administrators to build a ‘white list’ of corporate-approved devices and ensure that staff only use devices specifically provided or authorised by the organisation.

Burton continued: “More and more iPod-like devices - including the new breed of self-activating U3 USB drives - are being brought into the office, causing the threat to continually evolve. DeviceWall offers much needed control over these and ensures that company data cannot be removed without the right permission.”

The survey was carried out in March 2006, among 102 owners of portable media devices in the UK.