RE: Physical security

[Noah.Lance () APCC com]

The more secure version of physical security I've seen is via a "Common 
Access Card". An integrated solution that involves utilizing Smart Cards 
for Network/PC access as well as biometrics, barcode, magnetic strip & 
PIN, as physical entry authentication. All of which are located on one 
card, that to disable it in the event of loosing it, requires a PIN 
memorized by you to access networks, and areas requiring higher 
restrictions for physical access. 

Now I haven't heard of one company providing an "all in one" for this, 
however, Dell supports Smart cards, ActiveDirectory supports Smart card 
authentication (believe *nix has  a few available solutions as well, not 
sure of there stability And there is various biometric based 
authentication systems out there from simple fixes from IBM to LG's 
Iridian/PrivateID line, as well as some solutions from General Dynamics I 
believe for the "Out of box" solutions. Customized 
enhancements/integrations are available as well.

Now cost wise, its up there, not really a feasible solution for a lot of 
businesses. Mostly governments and "High Risk/Value" businesses would 
employ such in a limited capacity. However, with the proper processes and 
practices in line, it provides a very secure environment with a lot of 
potential for enhancement as Netbotz, Pelco, etc... com out with many more 
"Infrastructure Management Devices" that can control the building 
environment autonomously.