Smartcard Logon Proof of Concept Kit

The Smartcard Focus proof of concept kit contains everything you need to implement PKI-based smartcard logon on your Windows server and domain. It enables you to evaluate different hardware and software options, and to try out different approaches to managing your cards and users, prior to a wider deployment.

The smartcard logon starter kit comprises the following items:

• 1 x Gemalto IDBridge CT30 USB smartcard reader
  
• 1 x Identiv uTrust 2700R USB smartcard reader
  
• 1 x Omnikey 3121 USB desktop smartcard reader
  
• 1 x Identiv uTrust SCR3500-A portable folding smartcard reader
  
• 3 x Gemalto IDPrime MD 930 PKI smartcards
  
• 1 x Gemalto IDBridge K30 USB token reader with embedded PKI smartcard
  
• 1 x Memory stick with drivers, tools and documentation

If you are operating a standard Windows server/domain environment, then you already have all of the core software components required to implement secure two-factor logon for your users. User names and passwords are replaced by smartcards and PINs - something you have, and something you know. A user's smartcard generates a private key, protected by the PIN, and also stores a digital certificate, issued by the server. When a smartcard reader is connected to a desktop or laptop PC, a new smartcard logon option automatically appears, while Group Policy controls enforcement and card removal behaviour (eg locking the workstation automatically).

This native Microsoft solution also works in most virtualised and thin client environments, and the same internal PKI-based infrastructure can be used for other applications including email signing and encryption, document signing, intranet security and disk encryption. Additional paid-for software and drivers can further extend this to other operating systems (Linux and OSX) and to integrate with third-party applications (using standard PKCS#11 APIs).

The Smartcard Focus logon starter kit has been assembled by our expert team, based on many years of experience helping and supporting our customers through PKI logon implementation projects of all sizes, from 20 users to 20,000. We have included a selection of popular smartcard readers for you to try, plus some of our recommended PKI smartcards. Other makes and models are also available, so if you have any doubts or queries, simply get in touch for further advice.

We also include a 5-user proof of concept license to the Versasec S-Series card management solution, completely free of charge. This popular software adds a wide range of useful features and functions to the free tools that are available from Microsoft and Gemalto. The vSEC:CMS can be used to securely issue and manage your smartcards through their entire lifecycle, including handling events such as forgotten PINs and certificate renewals, and offering simple workflows for issuing cards and integrating with other systems.

Smartcard Focus also specialises in the supply of hybrid smartcards that include RFID chips for door access purposes. If you wish to combine this functionality on a single card, you can simply purchase additional PKI smartcards that have the appropriate access control chip technology inside, to match your door access control system.