Security is a primary concern for banks across the world, especially now that proprietary information and intellectual property are the two largest targets among perpetrators. For a leading retail bank in Atlanta, Georgia, hardened security is integral to providing superior banking services to the metropolis’ small and intermediate-size business community.

The bank used traditional desktop PCs to store customer information and process financial transactions. Not only did these bulky machines take up limited space, but they also potentially enabled unauthorized downloading and uploading. “Intrusion and security are chief among our concerns,” says the bank’s president and CEO. After realizing the security weaknesses of standard PCs, the bank decided to find a solution that would give it more control over its technology assets.

THE SOLUTION

The Atlanta retail bank worked with ClearCube Technology to replace its traditional PCs with a more managed desktop solution. The ClearCube solution removes the PC from a user’s desk, condenses it into an Intel-powered PC Blade, and centralizes all the Blades in a secure location. All that remains at the user’s desk are the peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse) and a small ClearCube connection device called a User Port.

The bank immediately saw the benefits of removing the CPU from the desktop. By centralizing all PC Blades in one secure location, unauthorized users cannot tamper with or accidentally
damage the hardware. The User Ports located at the desk also do not contain disk or CD drives, meaning that employees cannot download customer data or upload harmful software. “This is probably the best attribute of the ClearCube system, as the limited access keeps the possibility of intrusion and virus introduction to a minimum,” says the CEO.

The sophisticated ClearCube management software also enables a “touchless” environment where IT administrators can remotely manage, control and virtualize the resources of their
end user computing assets. This comprehensive software allows the bank’s IT personnel to monitor user activity and lock.

out those exhibiting suspicious behavior. “Now we have a way to police how our customers’ account information is being used by employees,” explains the CEO.