RSA SecurID ( “SecurID”) is a two-factor
authentication technology that is used to protect network resources. The
authentication is based on two factors -- something you know (a password or
PIN) and something you have (an authenticator). The authenticator is
typically a hardware token (such as a USB token, smart card or key fob) and the
software token is the RSA Authentication Manager Software that provides the
security engine used to verify authentication requests.
How RSA Secure ID Works
When a user attempts to access a protected
resource, he is prompted for a unique passcode. The passcode is a combination
of their user’s PIN and the code that is displayed on the authenticator token
at the time of log in.
The user ID and pass code are intercepted by the
RSA Authentication Agent and presented to the RSA Authentication Manager software
which validates the pass code. The RSA SecurID system computes what
number the token is supposed to be showing at that moment in time, checks it
against what the user entered, and makes the decision to allow or deny access.
RSA SecurID authenticators help organizations
protect private information and assure identities of people, devices and
applications exchanging that information. They are designed to fit seamlessly
into the existing business infrastructures of over 30,000+ organizations
worldwide. With over 25 years of outstanding performance and innovation, the
RSA SecurID solution remains an industry standard for organizations which want
to protect key business data assets. RSA SecurID authenticators provide
organizations with:
– Strong network security,
– Reliable authentication,
– Convenient solutions for end-users and
– A choice of form factors and options.
Hardware Authenticators
The RSA SecurID hardware token comes in a variety
of convenient models that all generate and display new codes every 60 seconds.
Software Authenticators
RSA SecurID software tokens use the same algorithm
as RSA SecurID hardware tokens while eliminating the need for users to
carry dedicated hardware devices. Instead of being stored in hardware, the
symmetric key is safeguarded securely on the user’s PC, smart phone or USB
device.
RSA SecurID software authenticators reduce the
number of items a user has to manage for safe and secure access to corporate
assets. Software tokens can help the enterprise cost-effectively manage secure
access to information and streamline the workflow for distributing and managing
two-factor authentication for a global work force. Additionally, software tokens
can be revoked and recovered when someone leaves the company or loses a device,
eliminating the need to replace tokens.
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