Security Dynamics announces high-speed ACM line; improved hardware security solution provides high-speed modem users with SecurID technology

Business Wire, March 20, 1995

CAMBRIDGE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 20, 1995--Security Dynamics Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:SDTI), a leading provider of network security solutions, today announced a faster version of hardware access control modules (ACMs), which provide crack-proof security for the new generation of high-speed modems, with communication rates up to 115.2 K Baud.

The announcement makes Security Dynamics' (SDI) patented SecurID user authentication technology available to remote users who want a security solution that provides easy, fast and secure two-factor authentication through a one-step logon.

"Security Dynamics' family of high-speed hardware ACMs provides users who want individual, stand-alone hardware security solutions with both maximum performance and strong remote access security, enabling them to take full advantage of the increased speed offered by today's modems," said Fred Pinkett, SDI product manager.

At the core of Security Dynamics' technology is the patented SecurID Card, a credit card-sized token which is carried by authorized users requiring computer or network access. Working in conjunction with the new high-speed hardware ACMs, the SecurID Card is a smartcard that displays a randomly generated, unpredictable access code which changes every 60 seconds. The SecurID Card provides two-factor authentication: The user logs on by entering a secret personal identification number (PIN) followed by the current access code displayed on his or her SecurID Card. The ACM authenticates that this information is correct, allowing access to authorized users and locking out unauthorized users (hackers and would-be trespassers). The logon process is one simple and quick step, and ACM processing of user credentials is transparent to the user.

SDI's family of hardware ACMs connect directly with any RS-232 asynchronous host, and provide access through leased lines, dial-up modems, workstations or terminals. ACM hardware products include the ACM/1600, a 16-port device installed between a host computer and incoming data lines, dial-up modems or terminals that can be linked to accomodate up to 256 ports and 6,400 users; the ACM/400, a four-port device for small to mid-sized computer environments that can accomodate up to 200 users; and the ACM/100, a one-port device for small systems or limited user environments that can accomodate up to 100 users.

Pricing and availability

Despite the increased speed and functionality, the pricing for Security Dynamics' family of hardware access control modules will remain the same: $650 for the ACM/100, $3,800 for the ACM/400 and $12,520 for the ACM/1600. SecurID Cards are available starting at $34. The ACM/1600 will be available in May 1995; the ACM/100 and ACM/400 will be available in June 1995.

About Security Dynamics

SDI designs, develops, markets and supports a family of security products used to protect and manage access to computer-based information resources. SDI's family of products employs a patent-protected combination of super smart card technology (the SecurID Card) and software or hardware access control products (ACE/Server and ACM) to authenticate the identity of users accessing networked or stand-alone computing resources. The company's customers include Fortune 500 companies and financial institutions as well as academic institutions, research laboratories, hospitals and federal, state and foreign government organizations.

SecurID is a registered trademark and ACE/Server is a trademark of Security Dynamics Technologies Inc.

CONTACT: Security Dynamics, Cambridge

David Hammond, 617/547-7820

or

Schwartz Communications

Dana Harris, Mike Farber, 617/431-0770