Print in the Channel - Issue #17

SECURE PRINT NETWORKS

CONTINUED

“The latest network protocols make sure that all network communications going to and from the MFP are encrypted. Key security features include Hard Disk Drive encryption, Digitally-Signed Firmware, Secure Boot, and Run Time Integrity Check. Kyocera K-Level security has been independently tested, verified and awarded the BLI Security Validation, Device Penetration award, confirming Kyocera’s security credentials. “Kyocera devices can be set to pin/ password protect printed documents with ‘secure print,’ they have operator panel locks and our HyPAS devices can be integrated into full document management solutions to benefit from the security they provide. Protected by unique passwords, the internal webpage of a Kyocera device (Kyocera Command Centre) can be used to limit device access by locking ports, close down unused protocols and apply IP filtering to control PC/ tablet/phone access.” Removing complexity Deyon adds that resellers should recommend that customers opt for a managed print service to manage their print infrastructure. “At Toshiba, we audit the current fleet and make recommendations for rationalisation and optimisation, to remove any complexity from a company’s infrastructure,” he says. “The more streamlined it is, the simpler it will be to manage its security. Then, we implement and integrate new devices, maintain their operation, monitor risk and ensure the print fleet is meeting business requirements and security standards. “Likewise opting for a managed IT service to audit security provisions can ensure a business is up to date and compliant, identifying and patching any vulnerabilities.” Deyon adds that resellers should recommend upgrading print fleets or having a single vendor for them. “Older devices will likely have outdated hardware-level security, weakening your multi-layer protection,” he says. “With a single vendor, security credentials and functions are likely to be similar across all devices, with a consistent standard of compliance. “Also, look to implement print software for multi-layered print security and greater flexibility for users and consider moving from on-premise to cloud-based solutions such as e-FOLLOW.cloud, to ensure software is consistently up-to-date.”

“Kyocera applies its K-Level not only to its business products (TASKalfa series) but also to its consumer range (ECOSYS series) of products. Our printers and MFPs incorporate all the latest security standards to make sure their communication across the network is encrypted for maximum network security. “Unused USB interfaces can be locked, unused protocols can be closed down and for the home user IP filtering can be applied making sure their PC, tablet and phone are the only devices allowed access. Security settings are protected by a unique, highly secure password making sure all Kyocera users, in the office or working from home, can do their work and protect their printed documents with total peace of mind. “Still, the biggest threat to a customer’s print security is unauthorised access to the device and the documents produced on it,” says Trevor. “Open access to a device, shared passwords and forgotten printouts are all potential security risks. In the worst- case scenario, print jobs could be intercepted across the network or retrieved from a device’s hard drive. “Resellers should be discussing these potential threats with customers and showing them how good operating practice together with the security functions of the right device can significantly reduce and even remove these risks. Choosing the right device from the right manufacturer is key for customer peace of mind. For example, many of our home-user type products have work from home functionality such as “Default Printer Confirmation” to remind users which printer they have set every time they click print, greatly reducing the chance of printing confidential documents on a network printer in the office.

Open access to a device, shared passwords and forgotten printouts are all potential security risks. In the worst-case scenario, print jobs could be intercepted across

the network or retrieved from a device’s hard drive.

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