AlphaShield
Group 10
Cameron Kinard, Leaundre Zeno, Megan Wiedmaier, Heath Carley
Key Words: Firewall, Port, Real-time Packet Authorization, AlphaGAP, IP Stealth Technology
AlphaShield Inc. has a new hardware device that guarantees protection from security vulnerabilities. AlphaShield has many advanced features making it the latest in network security. It is a stand-alone external firewall device that uses cutting edge technology to stop hackers in their tracks before they can access other users’ computers. The device monitors all inbound and outbound data transmissions between a computer and the outside world. Ports must be open in order to transmit data. However, opening ports leaves a computer vulnerable to hackers. AlphaShield is designed to remedy the inherent weakness of the manner in which data is transmitted over the internet. Essentially, computers using AlphaShield become invisible to online predators. The device is small, easily installed, and 100 percent guaranteed by the manufacturer.
AlphaShield Inc. is a hardware security manufacturer
located in
Accessing the Internet initiates the broadcast of a computer’s IP address telling the whole world it is online and ready to be infiltrated. A skilled hacker can use an IP address to attack a computer through 65,535 ports, giving them 65,535 ways to steal credit card numbers and destroy your operating system. These ports must been open in order to engage in activity on the Internet. Once a port is open it is like leaving the front door opened to intruders. Firewall software is the common defense used to keep viruses and worms out of a system but can be a configurable nightmare. Firewalls are configured to open some ports while keeping others closed. They typically work well until they become outdated and are no longer able to handle new worms and viruses. Existing firewall software does not protect all 65,535 ports. The key to the AlphaShield product is the method in which it defends a computer. Intruders are stopped before they can access the computer. The device acts as a virtual gate closing off all points of entry if they are not being used. The device is packed with many advance features powered by its technology.
Real-time Packet Authorization works around the open and closed port system by using an artificial intelligence infrastructure to automatically hide a user’s computer and to only give the IP address where it is absolutely essential. AlphaShield blocks all 65,535 ports and only opens them to IP specific destinations. AlphaShield does not respond to any kind of port or IP scan making the computer invisible.
AlphaGAP uses a “Disconnect to Protect” method of security. It disables access to the connected computer by creating a virtual GAP (disconnection) after a predetermined Internet idle interval. The product is set with a 15 minute idle interval. Access is managed through a seamless infrastructure to manage incoming and outgoing traffic. This feature is especially useful for users that have a high speed, “always connected” connection. The manufacturer claims the security is 100 percent effective once activated.
IP Stealth Technology creates what the manufacturer compares to a two-way mirror. This technology enables a user to see everyone that is online without everyone seeing the user. It creates a cloak concealing the user’s identity allowing the user to surf the net safely and freely. Even if someone has the user’s IP address, the computer is still undetectable so outsiders can not access the computer. The user is only visible to the specific person he or she is communicating with in real time. Instant messaging can be used to better explain this technology. When the AlphaShield is activated others do not know the user is online until he or she messages them first. The same restrictions apply to video messaging and conferencing mechanisms. This may be seen as a drawback, but the hardware device is set up for more technically advanced users to download a configuration utility enabling them to manually override the device settings to open specific ports that would normally be blocked. This feature would allow the user to set up videoconferencing, peer-to-peer gaming, and IP telephony.
AlphaShield’s hardware device can integrate into any group of workstations or individual office computers connected to the internet. Businesses can take advantage of this versatile product. The product’s low cost provides an ideal replacement for expensive software. The “plug and play” design makes the device an easy addition to any company’s computer security. The device has virtually no maintenance because it does not require any future software patches or upgrades. The low maintenance of the product can help reduce the workload of IT personnel allowing them to address other matters. AlphaShield is functional with all operating systems so any company could incorporate the device into its system. It does not require any technical knowledge to setup or install. Any knowledge worker in today’s world could add this device to his/her computer. The simplicity of the device reduces maintenance, lowers cost, and increases security and efficiency of a workplace. It would be a great asset to any IT department and could help a company be more competitive by reducing computer downtime.
AlphaShield is a revolutionary security device that provides unparalleled security. The device protects against hackers by keeping a user’s identity and valuable information safe while surfing the net. It is the first external firewall available, and the use of cutting edge technology keeps users one step in front of online intruders. The device is small, inexpensive, and easy to use making it an ideal business solution.