Channel Register

CA catches z/OS data for encryption

IBM left as the Betamax of mainframe tape crypto?

By Chris Williams • Get more from this author

Posted in Software & Security, 15th May 2006 14:14 GMT

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CA has announced a new foray into mainframe tape encryption. Brightstor Tape Encryption encrypts and decrypts any z/OS application data on its way to and from tape, without recourse to JCL changes.

The software giant says its new software offers a more complete approach than existing encryption tools from the likes of NetApp and IBM, with fully integrated key management. CA product director for z/OS John Hill added: “We encrypt dynamically at the I/O level, IBM doesn't.”

He said Brightstor Tape Encryption also has wider compliance with security standards.

The launch is aimed at capitalising on new regulations being brought in in the US to protect data. Twenty-three states now require firms and public bodies to tell people when their data gets exposed, and much sensitive information remains on aging mainframe computers.

Industry watchers agree the mainframe is here for the forseeable, so security has to be improved.

CA's marketeers hope to sell Brightstor Tape Encryption to all of the 75 per cent of the tape management market they control. It's hoped buyers will see a cost benefit - the product is software, so doesn't require any hardware investment. CA will also offer decryption software to its customers' partners for free.

Prices for the software start at $60,000. ®

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