OpenNetwork Unveils the First Directory-Enabled Web Identity Management Software Built Using the Microsoft .NET Server 2003 Web Security Model

Business Wire, Oct 7, 2002

Business Editors & Technology Writers

MEC 2002

ANAHEIM, Calif. & CLEARWATER, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 7, 2002

DirectorySmart(R) Provides Customers with a Rapid Return on Investment

Today at MEC 2002, OpenNetwork(R), a leader in directory-based Web identity and access management security solutions, will demonstrate the first directory-enabled single sign-on software product mapped to the Microsoft Windows .NET Server 2003 security model.

"Today, companies are looking for enterprise access management and security solutions that deliver value to the bottom line of their business. Companies deploying Web services are looking for a comprehensive security framework that allows them to seamlessly bridge to heterogeneous environments," said Mike Neuenschwander, senior analyst of Burton Group. "By showcasing the first EAM software product mapped to the Microsoft Windows .NET Server 2003 security model, OpenNetwork continues to demonstrate its commitment to deliver customer value through DirectorySmart with a comprehensive solution for .NET environments."

Customers using DirectorySmart, which places the directory and identity management at the center of their e-business solutions, can now extend the Windows .NET Server 2003 security model to heterogeneous environments. DirectorySmart streamlines the management of identity and security policies through one comprehensive security framework, ultimately reducing the requirement for each of a company's Web applications to separately access identity and policy information stored within Active Directory.

"Active Directory and the integrated security services in Windows .NET Server 2003 provide customers with the foundation for building secure Web applications that can be accessed with a single sign on," said Michael Stephenson, lead product manager for Windows Servers at Microsoft. "Using the Web security model in Windows .NET Server 2003, OpenNetwork will enable customers to extend the single sign-on experience of Windows to heterogeneous e-business environments."

OpenNetwork has made significant investments in developing a comprehensive security solution that compliments Microsoft's .NET Enterprise Servers. Currently, DirectorySmart integrates with Microsoft Commerce Server, Microsoft Content Management Server, Microsoft Biztalk Server, Microsoft Exchange Server, and Microsoft ISA Server. The combination of DirectorySmart and Microsoft Active Directory still remains the performance and lowest total cost of ownership leader for Web access and identity management solutions.

"Each of OpenNetwork's product firsts have been developed and deployed with a single goal in mind: to deliver customer value," said Perry Anton, strategic industry analyst for OpenNetwork. "By mapping to the Windows .NET Server 2003 security model, customers who implement DirectorySmart will quickly realize the benefits of a common security framework. This includes rapid deployment, decreased total cost of ownership, and a quick return on investment."

About OpenNetwork Technologies

OpenNetwork is a global provider of directory-based Web identity management and access management security software for bridging the security gap between .NET and J2EE Web Services. The company's flagship product, DirectorySmart(R), enables businesses to secure and manage millions of users' access to confidential information and multiple applications over the Web regardless of platform or domain. DirectorySmart is the first and only pure directory-based security product that leverages an LDAP directory as the central trusted identity store for both user and policy information for e-business. This streamlined and flexible security approach enables companies to fully take advantage of the power of directory technology and quickly bring their e-business initiatives to market securely and easily to manage, scale and support millions of users with the least impact to their organization while providing the highest return on investment.

Headquartered in Clearwater, Fla., OpenNetwork has offices across the United States and in Europe and partners with leading technology companies, including Microsoft, BEA, IBM and Plumtree. For more information about OpenNetwork and DirectorySmart, visit www.opennetwork.com, send an e-mail to info@opennetwork.com or call (877) 561-9500.