Trudy Walsh at Government Computer News posted a nice review of the REDFLY Mobile Companion this week.
It’s no secret that when it comes to netbooks, laptops and Wi-Fi in Government, there really is no easy solution to the security concerns and costs related to infrastructure and implementation. Many departments are rife with problems because of the strict policies in place that prohibit Wi-Fi networks and/or laptops/netbooks on the premises entirely.
Many of us in the private sector take for granted the fact that we can just grab our laptop off our desk, head across the hall to the conference room for a meeting, and still have email, Internet and network access.
Our team has met with quite a few people in the military and federal agencies that deal with sensitive information routinely. In many agency offices, Wi-Fi networks are not allowed for security reasons. In some government buildings and installations, laptops, netbooks or UMPCs are not allowed in or out. However, in almost every case, smartphones are allowed. While the smartphone offers a secure way to give them Internet and email access, the people we talk to still complain about trying to type lengthy messages, view attachments or work on Office docs on their phones because of the small screens and keyboards.
Through a new partnership with Government Reseller NetCon, Celio Corp is working to change that. The partnership will allow government departments to get fixed, predetermined pricing on all REDFLY products and accessories including the REDFLY Mobile Companion through a GSA schedule contractor.
The REDFLY Mobile Companion gives government employees a larger screen and keyboard to get work done without adding any additional security risk to the mix.
While some government agencies are OK with the use of a Mobile Thin Client (looks like a laptop but has no hard drive) – setup requires extensive IT infrastructure on the back end to give someone desktop access via a Mobile Thin Client. REDFLY gives many of the same benefits without the hassle.
Because there is no storage or operating system on the REDFLY, it may be admitted into facilities where laptop computers are not allowed. Government agencies get a laptop-like way to use their smart phones, without the security risks most laptops present. In many cases the REDFLY works with the already approved and deployed smart phones without violating policies or forcing IT to set up a new device, making it both a secure and cost efficient solution.
One other cool thing is that using Citrix or RDP, guest users can even work on a full Windows desktop (via their smartphones and REDFLY) inside of a secure facility being productive over the 3G wireless network from inside an otherwise inaccessible building.