Software as a service

In an effort to reduce cost and maintenance needs, companies are increasingly relying on the software as a service (SaaS) model where software vendors host applications ranging from office productivity suites to Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Human Resources, and financial software -- and with these applications, sensitive data is constantly leaving the controlled confines of the corporate network. In a 2006 report, Gartner estimated that by 2011, 25% of business software revenue will come from SaaS models, compared to only 5% in 2005.

Because SaaS providers are hosting customers’ confidential data, security & trust are essential. In most cases, multiple companies are sharing the same application. How can customers be sure that their data isn’t open to unauthorized access? SaaS vendors have to offer robust, multi-layered security, and strong authentication must be part of the package.

Protect hosted applications

Biometric authentication is an ideal solution to the problem, because it ensures that only authorized users can log in. They can be permitted access from PCs and mobile phones anywhere, anytime, simplifying business travel and working from home. A web-based application simply asks the user to look at the camera and say a pass phrase. A template containing the biometric data is captured, encrypted, and sent to the server for verification; based on this result access is granted or denied.

While the user is logged in, the system continues to monitor user presence. If the user leaves the area the session is automatically locked or suspended, and unlocks or resumes upon the user’s return, providing easy protection with no user action required. Instead of or in addition to a password or other authentication technology, this solution offers strong protection of online applications, ensuring that only the true authorized user can use the application to view or edit information.