NCipher Takes Hardware Security To Network Level

The device offers a higher level of security protection, said Moulds. "All of the cryptography that would have been on the server moves to our box, and an SSL connection goes into the box separate from the server so even if a hacker broke into the server, he couldn't get to the cryptography on the box," he said.

NetHSM, in contrast, sits on a network and offers multiple servers the same level of cryptography protection that before was offered only to one server per box.

"Before, one HSM per server was a relatively expensive proposition and, frankly, it was not the easiest thing to manage because of the high level of security," Moulds said. "NetHSM is cheaper because companies aren't buying one box per server anymore; it's easier to manage; and it works with a virtually unlimited number of servers because it is four times faster than the fastest HSM."

NetHSM offers full FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation. The nature of NetHSM makes it a good fit for companies in need of extreme security, such as SSL and Web services, PKI and certificate services, 3-D secure and online payment processing, XML and document signing services and secure appliance solutions, according to the company.

Moulds hopes NetHSM will open the door to systems integrators and consultants who previously had not considered entering the security realm. "This is something they can get their heads around; it's a way to add security without having to fool around with boxes," he said.

NetHSM, available Monday, lists for $30,000, which includes one server connection. Additional server connections are $5,000 each. That compares to the cost of nShield HSM, which lists for $5,000 to $25,000 depending on functionality.