Using portable, Wi-Fi-connected devices is advantageous across a wide range of verticals streamlining data sharing, enhancing productivity, and improving mobility. However, in certain fields security stands out as the top issue when switching to mobile devices. This is never more apparent than in the fields of government work and the military, where security is paramount.
Security can be difficult when devices are being used on and off site and on different networks. While this can be mitigated at some levels by intensive security protocols, the best way to completely secure mobile devices is something the military and most government installations are already set up to do.
Closed Networks Allow Security from the Ground Up
A closed network secures the entire system, and if only approved, system controlled devices are utilized within the system, the chances of a security breach drop precipitously. When additional authentication procedures are enabled, the security risk falls even lower. Instead of having to control various device configurations and implement protocols from each device to the connected system, the system implements security and each device connected is within the closed loop.
When the devices are supplied with verification and authentication options, such as smart card readers or RFID modules, each unit also becomes shareable between different personnel with the appropriate level of security recognized and approved for each user. Cryptography and multi-point authentication keeps closed networks secure, allowing only authorized devices and users to access sensitive or secure data. Access is granted to new users or devices only from certain points, keeping the system tightly controlled.
In the Office, On the Field
The advantage of a secure network is that it allows users both on-site and in the field to share data easily, and transfer devices between personnel members as required for smooth workflow. Rugged tablets are becoming the device of choice for government, military, industrial and manufacturing sites, since these devices are more portable than a laptop and more reliable than non-rugged tablets and handhelds.
Rugged Tablet options allows for use in harsh or impact prone conditions a high quality tablet can be dropped or knocked over; used in sunlight, extreme heat or cold; passed back and forth more readily than a clipboard, and utilize features such as touch screens, stylus options, detachable keyboards and docks, and split screen viewing. Peripherals such as GPS can also be implemented, creating devices that double as realistic tools to complete tasks in the field and provide directional support.
While the shift to secured mobile devices such as rugged tablets may incur extra costs in hardware (since government employees and military personnel as well as others operating in closed systems will be expected to use supplied devices), the huge leap in security and productivity is well worth the up-front expense of outfitting authorized personnel.