Earlier this week, security vendor SecureWave announced it would be offering a free tool to solution providers that helps uncover properties of portable storage devices connected to networks.  

This new Device Scanner discovery tool for solution providers can help them determine the threat of data theft of breaks in security.  It shows customers how many portable USB storage devices have been connected to the network, including thumb drives, Apple iPods or other MP3 players.

SecureWave is going to offer Device Scanner to channel partners.  Spokespeople for the company state they hope these solution providers will use the tool to help sell some of its Sanctuary products.  According to the company, many customers do not realize the threat devices connected to important networks pose.  Studies show that enterprise PCs each have approximately three to four USB devices connected to them.

Device Scanner analyzes a network to figure out all devices that have been connected to Microsoft Windows endpoints.  The scanner provides a historical log because it gets data from the Windows registry.

Solution providers have expressed surprise over how many portable storage devices are being used by the average employee.  Customers and clients have been equally surprised at results uncovered by the new security device.  This device can be particularly important in health care, financial services and legal markets where customer privacy and data security are incredibly important.

While many companies have policies regarding thumb drives and iPods, enforcing them before this point or at least figuring out if they are being followed has been a near impossibility.  This security device allows businesses to monitor employee use and make network security tighter.

Stenstrom Scientific intends to offer services based on Device Scanner for free or as an extra pat of its network security assessments.  The company hopes Device Scanner will open up opportunities for solution providers to sell other security products.  

Added By:  Joshua Feinberg