PGP Desktop Security debuts with the 7.0 edition of PGP. Among the many new features in PGP Desktop Security are integration with ICQ (99 and 2000 versions) for securely sharing instant messages; an automatic configuration update feature that utilizes a LDAP-based policy distribution system; enhanced enterprise manageability via the PGP admin's new configuration "lock down" capabilities; an improved, space-saving installation utility; automatic X.509 certificate retrieval and certificate lookup from LDAP directories; SMTP-based alerts for cyber attacks; and intruder tracing capabilities.
One of PGP Desktop Security's most impressive additions is its enterprise-class Personal Firewall and Intrusion Detection System (IDS), which creates a dual-layer security perimeter around the PC. The first line of defense is the Personal IDS technology, based on Network Associates' CyberCob protection solution, which provides protection from common network and Internet attacks such as SYN floods, Ping floods, Smurf, Bonk, Ping of Death, and Back Orifice. The second line of defense utilizes flexible packet filtering Personal Firewall technology. Administrators can choose from six pre-defined levels of firewall protection, each with its own associated list of packet filtering rules.
The list of new features continues with Twofish technology (a 256-bit cipher) for encrypting messages and files; Lotus Notes 5 client support; rich text support via an Outlook plug-in; automatic wipe upon file deletion options; "single sign on" Windows logon integration for Windows NT and Windows 2000 via the new GINA plug-in; peer-to-peer Virtual Private Network (VPN) capabilities for scalable, enterprise-wide network encryption; simultaneous protection of multiple network adapters; and optimized VPN connection performance via the new MTU path discovery capability.
The Final Word
Perhaps the best thing about PGP is its freeware status as long as you use the client for individual, non-commercial purposes. For commercial use, versions are available for individuals beginning at $59 (PGP for Personal Privacy) and for businesses beginning at $119 (PGP for Business Privacy). The freeware personal edition of PGP contains all of the same features as found in the commercial versions with the exception of technical support and optional PGP 2.x backward compatibility algorithm support.
The only real downside to PGP is that cryptographic software continues to be classified as export-controlled by the U.S. Government, which means that only citizens and permanent residents of the United States and Canada can download and legally use this version of the software. Fortunately, a version of PGP for international users has also been released with a similar level of security. All in all, if privacy is of any importance to you, PGP is an essential app to have in your arsenal.
Pros: Excellent encryption capabilities, helpful wizards make PGP easy to use, freeware Personal Desktop edition for non-commercial use
Cons: Restricted to U.S./Canada, freeware edition for non-commercial use only, plug-in support not available for all e-mail apps
