AirPatrol ZoneDefense 5 Allows Automatic Changes for Mobile Device Security Based on Location

AirPatrol is offering a new add-in for its ZoneDefense 5 mobile device security platform that will allow organizations using the Enterprise Mobility Management suite from VMware’s AirWatch to automatically switch security policies of smartphones and tablets based on the device’s owner and location. 

ZoneDefense 5 allows systems administrators to create “hot zones” that can change the features, apps and content available on an AirWatch-managed device when it enters the area. The hot zones can be as large as an entire building or as small as an office cubicle.

With ZoneDefense for AirWatch, organizations can shift from a ‘one device, one policy’ model inherited from the PC and laptop era in favor of a ‘the right policy at the right place’ paradigm much more suited to the mobile world.

The ability to automatically change device policies based on zone makes it simple for companies to manage areas that have differing security levels, such as a building lobby. As a mobile device enters a zone, a new security policy can be triggered that prevents unauthorized activities such as file transfers, use of a camera or recording device, or accessing certain apps. Once the device exits the zone, the more stringent security policy is replaced with the standard one and mobile device activities return to normal.

Beyond the ability to automatically manage device security based on location, ZoneDefense 5 also gives systems and security personnel a more complete view of the mobile devices operating within the organization. Capable of detecting and locating all cellular and WiFi devices, whether managed by AirWatch or not, ZoneDefense offers administrators the ability to identify, monitor and report on rogue smartphones and tablets that would otherwise operate “under the radar.”

AirPatrol also offers a business-to-consumer platform called ZoneAware that allows retailers, resort owners, consumer firms and others to deliver custom content and services based on a mobile device’s location.