Content

DeviceLock

DeviceLock provides a platform to manage and secure PC ports and removable storage media devices. This tool allows administrators to set access policy for removable devices, mobile phones and PDAs based on port, device class, device type, device model, and also unique device IDs. DeviceLock can also integrate directly with common encryption programs, such as PGP, TrueCrypt, SafeDisk, SecurStar and Lexar.

Setting up DeviceLock is straightforward. The program basically installs itself from an executable with a short installation wizard. After the install is complete, the service must be deployed to the client machines. This can be done using the built-in service deployment tool or done through an Active Directory Group Policy Object (GPO). After the product is installed and the service is deployed, management and policy is done through a snap-in for Microsoft Management Console (MMC). We found that even though MMC is a familiar and comfortable way for administrators to manage and configure setting, it is also quite limiting and basic.

Management and deployment of policy is also done through the console snap-in and we found the product awkward to use at first. We had to click around a bit to get a feel for how to create policy and have the outcome be what we expected. Provided in the documentation was a getting-started guide, which gave a step-by-step setup of a basic USB policy. This helped us become more familiar with how to set policy.

Documentation, other than the getting-started guide, included an installation guide and a separate user manual. The installation guide provided clear initial installation and configuration instructions, whereas the user guide included an in-depth view of advanced product features and configurations, as well as using the management console. Both of these guides included many screen shots and step-by-step instructions.

DeviceLock includes a one-year basic support plan with every new DeviceLock license purchased. This includes telephone support from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT, and 24/7 web ticket and email support. An online helpdesk service provides web access to product upgrades, an online user forum, product documentation, FAQs, a technical Flash-based webinar, and subscription notifications on product news. DeviceLock's Online Helpdesk is a web-based technical support case management system where customers can create 'Support Request Tickets' in real time, monitor their case status and communicate with the technical support engineer assigned to their case. Users can renew support after the first year for a fee.

At a price starting at $42 per license, we find this product to be an average value for the money. While it does offer some great features, including encryption integration, we found that it can be slightly difficult to use and manage.

Product title
DeviceLock
Product info
Name: DeviceLock v6.4.1 Description: Price: Basic price for a single computer license: $42/license; 1,000-plus computers: $9/license
Strength
Solid device and port control with encryption integration.
Weakness
Difficult to manage.
Verdict
A good product, but a bit difficult to administer.

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