Microsoft buys validation firm

Microsoft moved to enhance Windows authentication management last week with the acquisition of authentication specialist Alacris.

The move will give Microsoft a new way of managing smartcards and certificates. Microsoft’s Mike Nash said the deal would make it easier for users “to take advantage of the smartcard capabilities in Windows with tools to simplify smartcard lifecycle management”.

Alacris offers the IDNexus Identity Assurance Management System, which controls authentication technologies such as digital certificates, and is supplemented by an Online Certificate Status Protocol Identity Validation System.

Windows normally manages authentication via Active Directory and Microsoft Certificate services, but setting these up can be daunting. Authentication vendor RSA recently released an appliance to make it easier for firms to set up token-based authentication systems.

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