Imation Stealth Zone Boot-From-USB Secure Mobile Workspace

Imation Corp. announced availability of version 2.1 of its Stealth Zone secure mobile workspace.

This new version of Stealth Zone enhances data security by making it easier and more convenient for business travelers, teleworkers and contractors to carry a secure, managed Microsoft Windows 7 operating system and an encrypted data transfer solution on a single managed USB device.

"As organizations increasingly allow and even encourage employees to work outside traditional offices, and look to enable ‘bring your own device’ (BYOD) or contractor access to the organization’s applications, they are in search of solutions that allow authorized users access to information they need without compromising the security of their data," said Lawrence Reusing, Imation’s GM for Mobile Security. "Our solution provides a secure PC that you can carry in your pocket. Now, users can get what they’ve requested – a secure form of Windows to go wherever they are, combined with an encrypted flash drive in a single product."

"Mobile boot-from-USB Windows workspaces like Imation’s are generating increasing interest as IT departments seek to empower worker mobility while gaining some control over the BYOD trend," said Michael Osterman, president, Osterman Research, Inc. "Organizations are realizing that mobile workspaces are an extremely convenient and flexible way to provision fully managed, secure Windows desktop environments for employees and contractors, while minimizing the risk of data loss."

With Imation’s mobile workspace solution, IT can issue a full Windows 7 desktop environment on a secure, hardware encrypted USB device that employees or contractors can use both in the office and on computers at home or on the road.

With Imation’s new Crossover Storage capability, the Stealth Zone USB device can be plugged into a computer’s USB port and booted into a secure Windows 7 desktop environment; or, using a separate, secure storage partition, it can be used as a traditional encrypted secure flash drive, eliminating the need for a second encrypted drive for data transfer.

Stealth Zone 2.1 deploys measures
for workspace security, including:

• Host-computer isolation, where, after reboot and authentication, the computing environment is isolated from malware and data leakage.
• Hardware encryption, using a FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validated portable security processor to lock down content and shield the desktop, preventing tampering, intrusion and piracy.
• User authentication, including optional multi-factor authentication using password, biometrics or both.
• Centralized deployment and management, that lets an organization deploy USB desktops and police their use with Imation’s deployment tools and Imation ACCESS Enterprise management platform.

Imation’s mobile workspace products are available through network of channel partners.

Current users of Imation Stealth Zone devices can upgrade their devices to version 2.1 capabilities by contacting their sales representative.