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MOD Likes Aruba Security

Wireless communications company Aruba Networks says that its products have been incorporated into the first wireless network to achieve high security RESTRICTED level certification for connection to the UK Defence Fixed Network

In recognition of this accomplishment, the UK Ministry of Defence Trading Fund’s Defence Support Group (DSG) has selected Aruba as the sole supplier of wireless LAN infrastructure at its Donnington workshop. In selecting Aruba for its underlying WLAN infrastructure, DSG now has an easy-to-use wireless solution that offers the flexibility and convenience expected from wireless connectivity together with best-in-class security.

The Information Assurance arm of the Government Communication Headquarters, known as CESG, is the UK Government’s national technical authority for information assurance and responsible for accrediting wireless networks under a process titled “Manual Y.” The installation was implemented with Logica providing project management, hardware installation, testing and security consultancy, a Manual Y compliance report, and security validation of CESG’s Manual Y process.

“As a supplier of vehicle and equipment services to our Armed Forces we are constantly looking at ways to make our organisation run more efficiently,” said Malcolm Smith, DSG’s Head of Information Systems based at the Agency’s headquarters in Andover. “The benefits of wireless are well documented in warehousing environments, so that when CESG published the Manual Y standard, allowing us to implement, we were quick to respond.”

Aruba’s secure unified mobility solutions securely deliver networks to users by integrating adaptive wireless LANs, identity-based security, application continuity services, and multi-vendor network management into a cohesive, high-performance system. Adaptive wireless LANs deliver follow-me connectivity to roaming users, support standard Wi-Fi clients, and deliver high-speed data, toll-quality voice, and streaming video applications. Aruba’s identity-based security associates policies with users instead of ports, delivering follow-me security that enhances mobility without compromising security.

“Aruba’s ‘Manual Y’ accreditation was a major achievement and makes a very strong statement about the merits of our identity-based security architecture,” said Bob Vickers, Aruba’s UK Sales Director. “Using our wireless networks, DSG can further its progress towards running a ‘lean’ logistics operation by improving the efficiency and accuracy of the stock pick and replenishment activities performed at its UK central distribution facility in Donnington, Telford.”