Press Releases

Press Release

VANDYKE IS FIRST TO OFFER NEW AUTHENTICATION METHOD FOR WINDOWS SECURE SHELL

Beta 1 Release of VShell Version 1.2 delivers public key-only authentication, X.509 certificate support and OpenSSH public key format compatibility

Albuquerque, N.M. (September 4, 2001) — VanDyke Software, a leading provider of security and access software, announced today the first public beta release of its VShell™ 1.2 secure access server for Microsoft® Windows® NT®. The beta release's new authentication features enhance security, automation, and interoperability, allowing network and system administrators to automate routine tasks and support heterogeneous networks.

VShell is the first Windows-based server to offer public key-only authentication using the Secure Shell 2 protocol. This frequently requested feature allows administrators to automate unattended file transfers and batch jobs securely. Public key-only also provides a means to create a cross-platform file-sharing infrastructure for customers and partners. Further, it provides the option to streamline the logon process for users.

"Public key-only authentication and X.509 certificate support provide corporate IS departments new ways to implement security throughout their organizations," said Jeff P. Van Dyke, president of Van Dyke Technologies. "Public key-only allows automation of business-to-business operations and makes user logon simpler. Support for X.509 file-based certificates allows SSH connections to use smart card and token solutions."

File-based X.509 certificate support enables the use of smart cards, tokens and other physical security devices for highly secure two-factor public key authentication. VShell 1.2's native support for the OpenSSH public key format eliminates the need for users of the open source SSH client to maintain two sets of keys.

VShell was introduced in December 2000 and was the first shipping commercial SSH2 server for Microsoft Windows NT and 2000, providing secure access, data tunneling, and secure file transfer services. VShell 1.2 Beta 1 is available for free 30-day evaluation by downloading the fully functional software from www.vandyke.com. Final release is currently scheduled for October 2001.VShell is available in three configurations: VShell Personal for US$249, VShell Workgroup for US$399, and VShell Enterprise for US$799.

VanDyke Software is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The SecureCRT® and SecureFX® SSH clients complete the company's secure product offering. Further information on Van Dyke Technologies is available on the Internet at www.vandyke.com, or by calling (505) 332-5700.