Apple’s iPhone and iPad have been given approval by the US Defense Department, and devices running Apple’s iOS mobile OS can now be used on the US Defense Department’s network.
Apple’s devices which are running iOS 6 have now been approved for the network, and the Defense Department has said that it has approved the Apple iOS 6 Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG).
“Approval of the STIG means that government-issued iOS 6 mobile devices are approved for use when connecting to DOD networks within current mobility pilots or the future mobile device management framework,” the agency said in a statement.
Significance of the Approval
This approval is a significant milestone for Apple as it opens up a new market segment for its devices. The US Defense Department is known for its stringent security requirements, and gaining approval means that Apple’s iOS 6 has met these high standards. This could potentially lead to increased adoption of iPhones and iPads within other government agencies and sectors that require robust security measures. The approval also highlights Apple’s commitment to security and its ability to meet the needs of enterprise and government clients.
Comparison with Other Approved Devices
Earlier in the month, the US Defense Department also approved BlackBerry’s BlackBerry 10 platform and Samsung’s devices running the Samsung Knox, which is a new version of Android with enhanced security. BlackBerry has long been a staple in government and enterprise sectors due to its strong security features. Samsung Knox, on the other hand, represents a significant advancement in Android security, offering features like secure boot, trusted boot, and a hardware-backed trusted environment.
The inclusion of Apple’s iOS 6 in this list of approved devices indicates a shift in the landscape of mobile security. While BlackBerry and Samsung Knox have their own unique security features, Apple’s iOS 6 offers a seamless user experience combined with robust security measures. This makes it a strong contender for government and enterprise use.
Implications for Future Mobile Device Management
The approval of iOS 6 for use on the US Defense Department’s network also has implications for future mobile device management (MDM) frameworks. As the agency mentioned, the approval is within the context of current mobility pilots and future MDM frameworks. This means that as the Defense Department continues to develop and implement its mobile device management strategies, iOS devices will be a part of that ecosystem.
Mobile device management is crucial for organizations that need to manage a large number of devices while ensuring security and compliance. With iOS 6 now approved, IT departments within the Defense Department can leverage Apple’s MDM capabilities to manage devices, deploy apps, and enforce security policies. This could lead to more efficient and secure mobile operations within the department.
The approval of Apple’s iOS 6 devices by the US Defense Department is a significant development in the realm of mobile security. It not only opens up new opportunities for Apple within the government sector but also sets a precedent for other organizations with stringent security requirements. As mobile device management continues to evolve, the inclusion of iOS devices in the Defense Department’s network will likely lead to more secure and efficient mobile operations. This approval, along with those of BlackBerry 10 and Samsung Knox, marks a new era in mobile security, where multiple platforms can coexist while meeting the highest security standards.
Source PC World
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