Enterprise-level security now available in a home USB device

Yoggie, an Israeli security vendor, has released USB device called Pico, a Linux-based computer on a stick that provides enterprise-level security on a home laptop or desktop PC. Corporate desktops and laptops reside behind an IT department with dedicated servers blocking inbound malicious content. As home software-based security suites attempt to match these blocking features, they sometimes tax the computer's CPUs--and the end-user's patience. Instead, the Yoggie device handles all the heavy lifting of Internet blocking and security within the USB device itself, liberating desktop or laptop resources ordinarily dedicated for antivirus and antispyware software for other use.

Pico redirects all inbound Internet traffic (LAN, Bluetooth, and wireless) through the USB device before handing it over to the Windows-based laptop or desktop. The Pico is literally a tiny computer with a 520Mhz Pentium processor and it runs up to thirteen Linux-based security appications (depending upon which plan you subscribe). The Yoggie device checks for updates via an encrypted connection every five minutes.

The Pico starts shipping June 10, 2007. The Personal service starts at $179 and includes the USB device plus a one-year subscription. Annual renewals are $40 per year. The Pico Pro version includes a secure VPN client along with central management tools. It starts at $199, with renewals at $40 per year.

[everwanted2]

Wow this is useful

I like this Idea .. well it isn't just an idea anymore but a product. I have no cons except I wonder what would happen if something did get through, that is what the company should worry about because if you don't have any anti-virus running from the kernel and OS to stop a trojan or virus from doing anything once it is already on your HD. Still a nice idea

[JDeluce]

Comment to "Wow this is Useful"

While I've yet to try this product out, I do have one on order and am expecting delivery on Monday.

Yoggie claims that if an attack is successful, the device is the only thing that takes the hit. Upon successful hack the device disables any outgoing traffic from itself as well as all network connections, thus preventing computer infection.

Because the device works with NonVolatile RAM (storing master copy of its OS) and Volatile RAM (storing running copy of OS), once rebooted, the device restores itself to previous working and unhacked state.

I'll be glad to provide more information and experiences once I've had a chance to check it out.

Cheers.