Content

Access Smart Power LogOn v4.0

This product offers a somewhat different approach to identity management. Its focus is not on user provisioning and the user lifecycle, rather it is a niche product for password management. However, this does not exclude it from our identity management group because this product has a very interesting approach to password management. In the IT industry, when a user is given a secure password it is usually something other than their dog’s name or something easy for them to remember. The problem that arises is the user now takes that secure password and writes it down and posts it somewhere. So now it does not matter how secure the password is because everyone can see it. This product takes all the user’s secure passwords and puts them all in one place on a smart card so that the user only needs to remember one password and have a smart card.

We found this product to be of average ease of use. Setup is simple and consists of just installing the software, administration tools and a reader on the administration machine, as well as software and card readers on client machines. While the software and readers are easy to install, this does require an admin to go to each machine and physically install what is required. Depending on the size of the environment, this could be a daunting task. Once installed, administration is slightly more difficult.

The reason this product fits well into identity management is because it is more than just your average password manager. The system itself is completely managed by the administrator. When a user is assigned a card, the administrator builds and authorizes that card specifically for that user. This custom card now houses all the user’s proper logon credentials, which can be centrally managed by admin and IT staff.

Documentation for this product is fairly extensive and includes a set of guides for both Password Manager and Password Administrator. Access Smart offers comprehensive support. Technical support can be reached by phone and email 24/7.

At about $129.95 for the administrator and starting at $80 per employee, this can seem pricey. However, we find it a fairly good value because it really focuses on a major security issue in user ID management. This price also includes software, cards and card readers.
Product title
Access Smart Power LogOn v4.0
Product info
Name: Power LogOn v4.0 Description: Price: $129.95/user and $80 per employee
Strength
Centralized password-management tool that eliminates password security issues.
Weakness
Awkward management interface. Password management only.
Verdict
Although it does not quite reach our FIPS benchmark, this is a strong product for managing password.

Get daily email updates

SC Media's daily must-read of the most current and pressing daily news

By clicking the Subscribe button below, you agree to SC Media Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.