How can businesses use the iPad to their advantage?
Businesses are finding more ways to integrate and manage the iPad. Lots of new applications can transform the iPad to that innovative tool. For the road warriors and workers on the go utilizing public Wi-Fi networks, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) with its encrypted tunnel is a requirement for secure access to the data and resources on the business network. Apple also provides support for certificate-based and two-factor authentication for improved security.
The iPad has a native support for Cisco IPSec, L2TP over IPSec, and PPTP. These three VPN protocols are compatible with the vast majority of VPN solutions and allow the iPad to connect with the business network without any additional network configuration or third-party applications.
And speaking of third-party applications, solutions have been developed that enable business professionals the ability of utilize the iPad within the company’s network. ‘Good for Enterprises’ enables IT administrators the ability to provision, manage and update a variety of smartphone platforms without ever touching a handheld device. All functionality ranging from the camera to the Bluetooth features can be locked down from a single, Web-based portal. The IT administrator can also determine which company applications can be accessed and which smartphone applications are allowed a secure connection. In the event of a lost or stolen smartphone, the IT administrator can even remotely wipe all access settings and secure data, which is beneficial for small and medium-sized companies that do not have an established smartphone standard.
The ‘Array Networks Desktop Direct’ application for the iPad (and iPhone) as well as the ‘Citrix Receiver’ software offer users remote access to their desktop and all the software and tools available securely remotely. This opens the door for all Windows applications via the iPad without risking data. The user is provided a complete view of the remote computer desktop utilizing the iPad’s full screen size. The application eliminates Windows compatibility problems and security risks by transmitting on video all keyboard and mouse information. Applications and data remain secure on the office computer. Access for multiple desktops boosts productivity for those managing more than one office computer and saves time by enabling multi-tasking.
There is no question the iPad is quite an elegant computing device for consumers. But this revolutionary ‘toy’ may soon serve as the foundation for new innovative ideas. Those same consumers, who also happen to be employees, now have a secure means of getting work done anywhere in the world. Although the iPad was not originally created to do everything a laptop can do, business applications are making that a reality and we are witnessing a toy evolve into a tool.
Chris Jones is the network/infrastructure administrator at ATW Management Inc. Reach him at [email protected] or (866) 452-0563.
