Netbooks Trigger Security Concerns

Since the introduction of netbooks last year, the sales of these
small mobile devices are increasing and so are security concerns.

The decreasing prices and slowing economy is further
fuelling its growth. A testimony to the growth is the Q3 sales figures by
DisplaySearch that shows around 5.61 million units sold.

However, with the enhanced portability and the inexpensive
price tag, these netbooks have become a growing security concern amongst the
corporate, according to Computer World.

The article says that the processor that powers the netbook
is a generation or two behind with the current laptop processors. Add to it the
stripped-down operating systems, no or less data encryption tools and more
connectivity options for the end-users makes the latest phenomenon vulnerable
to hacking.

But the point here is, are netbooks the only devices to be
blamed for jeopardizing corporate secrets? We think that such risk is
applicable to each and every device used in the corporate environment. 

The article further argues that because of the slow processor
and limited memory, people don't load their netbooks with antivirus or
anti-spyware tools, which seems to be untrue. Most of the netbooks come with
Intel Atom processor and 1GB RAM placed in a single slot. Now adding up one
more GB of RAM can make a latest antivirus software work like a charm.

The netbooks have OS options of loading either with Windows
XP Home or a stripped-down variant of Linux. Though Windows XP netbook can be
updated with latest security patches, it becomes a bit difficult when it comes
to the Linux-based one. 

Stripped-down Linux versions do not necessarily compromise
on security features, but, if you're too skeptical, there's always Suse, Ubuntu
or Fedora Linux distro available for enhanced security.

Lastly, the article speaks about easy transfer of data with
the inclusion of USB port and Wi-Fi. Well, these technologies are already
available in all the laptops today and thus we can say that these data transfer
risks exist with devices other than netbooks too.

So how can corporate save themselves from being the victims
of data hacking? Ban netbook usage in offices? That could be a short-term
solution. But for a longer-term initiative, I think companies should educate
its employees in respect to:

- Using legal software

- Updating the OS with security patches

- Installing security software

- Explaining the pros and cons of unsecured Wi-Fi networks

- Locking up USB ports with necessary software