VeriSign adds authentication to Cisco SMB kit

VeriSign is tailoring its products and services to the needs of smaller firms

VeriSign has embedded optional two-factor authentication technology into Cisco’s new Small Business Pro SA 500 Series security appliances, which are aimed at small businesses.

Its VeriSign Identity Protection (VIP) functionality can be activated with a single mouse click and requires staff to use not only a user name and password to access corporate networks, but also a unique, one-time six-digit security code that is generated by their VIP authentication credential. The credential likewise enables users to authenticate themselves to any VIP-enabled web site.

“To legitimately safeguard business networks and the data that resides in them, companies can no longer rely on simple user name and password sign-ons. With VIP authentication, we’re helping small businesses remain a step ahead of attacks that could have serious financial and competitive implications,” said Kerry Loftus, the company’s vice president of consumer authentication solutions.

VeriSign also claimed that its VIP Authentication Service made the traditionally pricey technology more affordable for small businesses as it managed the lifecycle of the authentication credentials. This lifecycle includes issuance, synchronisation, revocation, replacement, tracking and auditing.

The move appears to reflect the vendor's growing interest in the small business sector. It follows VeriSign’s launch of a new Small Business web site in August, which provides information on how such organisations can grow their business while remaining safe online.

Such advice includes how they can go about boosting e-commerce sales, strategies for up-selling, undertaking promotions and introducing review and rating systems. It also explores how such organisations may be able to prevent phishing attacks and promote trusted relationships with customers.