Software House Achieves FIPS 197 Validation for Entire iSTAR Controller Family

Software House Achieves FIPS 197 Validation for Entire iSTAR Controller Family

  • Jun 12, 2013

Software House Achieves FIPS 197 Validation for Entire iSTAR Controller FamilySoftware House, part of the security products business unit of Tyco, has announced that it has attained the U.S. Government’s Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 197 validation for its complete iSTAR physical access controller family, including iSTAR Edge, iSTAR Pro, iSTAR eX, and soon-to-be-released iSTAR Ultra.    

FIPS 197 is the government’s standard for the AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) encryption algorithm for electronic data.  It is the preferred cryptographic method utilized by U.S. government agencies due to its high-level of cryptographic, key strength.

The FIPS 197 validation is based on the implementation of the C•CURE Cryptographic Engine v2.0, utilized by Software House, to provide cryptographic services within the iSTAR controllers as well as the C•CURE 9000 security and event management system. C•CURE 9000 is a highly-scalable security and event management platform, allowing users to meet access control and security needs from entry to enterprise level.

“Our latest FIPS 197 validation demonstrates our commitment to providing the industry’s highest levels of encryption across our entire product line” said Rick Focke, senior product manager for Software House.  “Now all iSTAR network controllers, from our single-reader iSTAR Edge up to a 16-reader iSTAR Pro or iSTAR Ultra, can communicate peer-to-peer in an encrypted manner, even when offline from the host.”

The FIPS 197 standard is a joint effort by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States and the Communications Security Establishment Canada (CSEC) under the Canadian government. The standard provides third-party assurance of security claims on any product containing cryptography that may be purchased by a government agency.

Featured

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.