Telequip Introduces Net Wallet

PC Card Enhances Online Security

Telequip Corporation has introduced its entry into the fast-emerging electronic commerce and security market. Dubbed Net Wallet, the PC Card-based device is suitable for use with a number of applications ranging from on-line transactions, to controlled access of certain areas on a network.

Net Wallet differs from other solutions in that it is entirely hardware based. This means that none of its security features can be modified or tampered with, a worrisome possibility with certain software-based solutions. Net Wallet can perform functions including storing digital certificates or electronic keys and, when used in conjunction with appropriate software, can also encrypt or decrypt email or confidential files.

“Net Wallet differs from other solutions in that it is entirely hardware based.”

Security is handled using a FIPS certified DES chip, which is dedicated to performing the encryption and decryption functions. Net Wallet also features an integrated tamper-resistant circuit which is responsible for private key storage as well as verifying documents and other identification functions. This is partly based on technology which has proven to be effective in Smart Cards.

Since the device is packaged in a PC Card format, people can easily carry Net Wallet around with them and insert it into either a laptop or suitably equipped desktop PC (inexpensive PC Card readers for desktop computer systems are now readily available).

Net Wallet uses a 32-bit processor and is available with up to 12MB of Flash memory.