Digital Security Concerns in Warehousing for Defense
AML serves all industries with inventory tracking needs; military and defense are no exception to that. We recognize that these sectors face totally unique challenges that are not encountered in other industries. One of the primary concerns in military and defense operations is data security. It is imperative for high-security operations to take every precaution to preserve the integrity of their data, especially when you consider the safety risks associated with most data-sharing networks.
Traditional Wi-Fi and other radio-enabled connections leave networks vulnerable to access from unauthorized third parties. An attack on these network openings can have detrimental effects on the digital side of military and defense operations. Cyber-attackers can gain access to compromise or steal invaluable data; they can install viruses and malware on devices across the network, rendering them useless; they can even quietly install spyware onto devices for long-term data breaching. Simply put, the security risks associated with traditional networks are far too dire for high-security facilities.
The Security Benefits of an Air Gapped Network
Fortunately for those facilities looking to secure their operations, the risks associated with radio and Wi-Fi networks can be mitigated with the use of an air-gapped network. An air-gapped network is one that does not utilize wireless or wired connections between a computer and an external network; the two are completely separated.
This makes air gapped networks incredibly difficult to access externally. This added layer of obscurity can deter and even prevent unauthorized third party access to the network and drastically reduce the risk of data compromise or malware attacks. By opting to use an air gapped network, facilities can guarantee maximum protection for their precious data.
Although an air gapped network makes it more difficult for attackers to access internal data, it also poses its own set of compatibility issues for those looking to make the switch. To start, even highly secure operations still have a need to collect data and transfer it between devices. The issue with this is that most commonly available devices do not offer secure data collection; conversely, most devices that offer secure data collection are not convenient. Even in the modern day, some facilities are still using pen and paper for their daily inventory tracking. While this method is painfully inefficient, it is undeniably less susceptible to compromise than cloud-based computing. When you consider that 7 out of 10 cloud infrastructures are breached within just a year of going live, it’s easy to see why some facilities may just stick with what they know to be safe.
The networks themselves aren’t the only problem. Most mobile barcode scanners on the market are outfitted with the technology to connect to a shared network, either over cellular, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or with a wired ethernet connection. These inventory tracking devices can’t be used with an air-gapped network- they would simply defeat the purpose by putting data at risk. Even with all network compatibility settings turned off, crafty cyber-attackers can still access devices remotely in a way that users cannot detect. The only way to eliminate the possibility of such an attack is to use a device which doesn’t have network or radio capabilities to begin with.
To meet the needs of high-security inventory tracking operations, the solution we have to offer is an air-gapped mobile computer.
AML’s Secure Inventory Tracking Solutions
As a pioneer in mobile computing, AML has developed two unique air-gapped computers for secure, mobile data collection. As the name suggests, these mobile barcode scanners do not have the capability to connect to a wired or wireless network. They can only connect to other devices with the use of a USB cable, which does not establish any kind of network connection but still allows for the transfer of data between devices. Our Made-In-America devices merge the convenience of modern inventory scanner technologies with the security of an air gapped network.
Solo Android Air Gapped Computer
The more advanced of the two is our Solo Air Gap Data Collection Handheld. This rugged mobile computer, which runs on the intuitive Android platform, was designed specifically for high-security operations where all radio contact is banned from the premises. It has absolutely no radio capabilities, which eliminates any safety concerns related to data breaching and external cyber-attacks. It is available in a variety of configurations to suit the needs of any warehouse or inventory tracking facility. Customization options include an optional pistol grip handle for ergonomic operation, two keypad options, a selection of 1D and 2D barcode scanner technologies, and different charging accessories.
LDX10 Handheld Barcode Scanner
In addition to the Solo, we have also developed the LDX10 Batch Mobile Computer. Compared to Solo, the LDX10 is an ergonomic, lightweight alternative that offers the performance you’d expect from an AML device with absolutely no frills. This device runs on the familiar Windows Embedded Operating System and is only capable of transmitting data through a wired USB connection for maximum data security. You may also be pleased to learn that this is the most affordable model of mobile computer that we offer here at AML.
Both of our air-gapped computers come pre-loaded with AML’s signature DC Suite software, designed to simplify inventory tracking for all kinds of facilities. Our programs offer unmatched utility, versatility, performance, and ease of customization. Preserve the integrity of your inventory tracking operations with air-gapped technologies by AML.
