Advantech uses embedded McAfee security solution

Advantech has announced a McAfee software security solution for its embedded platforms. It is designed to protect critical systems such as POS terminal, kiosks, transaction-based, ATM machines, digital signage, HMI, SCADA or any critical applications vulnerable to attack.

The McAfee security solution is also available with SUSIAccess, a remote device management utility that provides remote monitoring, remote KVM, remote power on and off, system recovery and system protection. The system protection features have been made more robust with the introduction of McAfee’s application control technology. The McAfee solution has an easy and simple user interface to assist in managing embedded devices and associated applications.

The embedded McAfee software uses whitelist technology in its solution to determine which applications are permitted to execute on an embedded device. The security control mechanism is designed to protect embedded platforms by allowing only software specifically developed and designed for the platform to run.

Most engineers are familiar with the type of system protection offered by antivirus suites which help keep PCs safe from external threats. This technology uses blacklisting and requires continual updates, with virus databases that grow larger over time, and it also requires yearly licence renewal. Using the whitelist approach for Advantech embedded devices, only programs that are authorised by the McAfee suite will run, and there is only a one-off reduced fee (no renewal). This approach is more efficient and more cost-effective than traditional security solutions. The operating environment is more secure and changes less often as well. Advantech is utilising McAfee’s solution as part of its SUSIAccess System Protection Utility. Enabling the function will allow customers to protect embedded systems that have SUSIAccess installed on them from unauthorised program execution.