The iKey product from Rainbow Technologies comes in a variety of ways, according to your individual requirements. The iKey 1000 tested is a straightforward two-factor authentication product featuring a USB token and PIN.
The iKey 1000 was nicely presented in an attractive package containing two tokens, a CD-Rom that included software and drivers, printed release notes and a USB extension lead. The extension is very useful for computers with USB ports that are inconvenient to access on a regular basis.
Installation is straightforward and the installed iKey utilities are equally straightforward. The iKey 1000 supports 1024-bit encryption and is supplied with either 8kb or 32kb of secured storage. The token itself is the familiar Rainbow key fob type with integral LED which shines brightly when connected and blinks when passing data back and forth.
While this might be regarded as an entry-level solution, it nevertheless has useful functionality providing two-factor user authentication for clients of VPN logon. It can also be used in conjunction with Microsoft Outlook to provide secure email signing and encryption. This might be all that many users need from such a package, in which case the iKey 1000 will suit them well and represent good value.
Installed with the software utility are html guides for administrators and users. These guides cover the basics well enough, but we would prefer to see and use a printed manual, rather than jumping around in html links to find pertinent information.
The two guides reflect the two security levels, with the administrator being able to initialize the user PIN, PKI storage areas and undertake other such administrative functions. The user may change their PIN and manage their own certificates as required.
Overall, this is a good package coming from a respected supplier at a reasonable cost. Everything works as expected and one could imagine many users and organizations using the iKey 1000 to very good effect.
