Similar to the novel Spyrus Hydra PC Secure Pocket Drive announced earlier this month, the Stealth Zone (right) is a USB stick that not only provides encrypted storage, but also includes the Windows Embedded Standard 2009 operating system. According to MXI Security, the device will require up to three-factor user authentication before the hardware-encrypted OS is unlocked for booting. Strong passwords, biometrics, and US Government CAC and PIV cards are supported as well, the company says.

MXI Security says the Stealth Zone, which apparently is preconfigured with display, keyboard, and network drivers that support most modern PCs, allows an untrusted computer to be employed as a fully secure work environment. The device uses MXI's own Bluefly cryptographic processor, enabling features such as multiple device users, isolated data partitions, surrogate users, NIST SP800-56A secure communication, and comprehensive PKI token services, the company adds.

Lawrence Reusing, CEO of MXI Security, stated, "While Stealth Zone allows for a range of portable computing solutions, the ability to directly boot the Windows Embedded Standard 2009 operating system offers a leading end-user experience. Combined with our unmatched authentication features, Stealth Zone is the ideal USB desktop solution for many government organizations that require highly secure and portable Windows Embedded based devices."

Ashwin Kulkarni, a senior product manager for Windows Embedded at Microsoft, stated, "We're excited MXI Security and other partners throughout the government sector continue to leverage the Windows Embedded platform to develop innovation solutions that meet industry demands. The Stealth Zone utilizes Windows Embedded Standard 2009 to equip users with a trusted operating system environment when access to information is critical."

Further information

MXI Security did not cite pricing or availability for the Stealth Zone, but the device appears to be on sale now. More information may be found on the company's website, here.

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