Multi-Domain Smart Card Reader – MDR

HSL’s secure multi-domain smart card reader (MDR) enables the use of one smart card to logon to four computers simultaneously. 

Designed specifically to answer the need for secure simultaneous smart card access, the MDR reduces the overall smart card operational and administrative costs while increasing security. 

• Reduce overall smart card operational costs; buy less smart cards and less readers. 
• Minimize smart card administrative overhead. Use a single smart card for multiple computers. 
• Increase security by simultaneously auto-logoff/lock all computers the user is working on upon smart card removal. 

In organizations where users simultaneously work in multiple computer environments, the use of smart cards to secure logons and applications (such as email encryption) generates a costly and administrative-intensive overhead. 

Since a dedicated smart card and smart card reader must be purchased, programmed and installed on both a per user and computer basis, multiplied by the number of computers and users in the organization, the TCO and administrative effort required to support such environments is extremely high. 

For example, an employee that has to access 4 computers simultaneously would need to have 4 smart cards, one for every computer environment plus 4 smart card readers, each reader connected to a separate computer. 

HSL developed the secure Multi-Domain smart card Reader (MDR) technology to provide a simple yet secure solution to this common problem. The HSL Multi-Domain smart card Reader (MDR) is a single secure smart card reader that connects simultaneously to multiple computers, allowing a user to utilize a single smart card while working securely in multiple computer environments simultaneously. 

Removing the smart card from the MDR immediately de-associates the MDR from all coupled PCs. As a result, smart card-aware applications will notice the smart card’s absence and respond accordingly. 

For example, a Windows PC that is configured to require smart cards for user logon may be set to lock the user’s desktop once the smart card is removed. 

How does it work? 

• Program the smart card with the credentials needed for all four computer environments. 
• Connect the MDR USB cables to the computers. Cable numbers correspond to the numbered MDR buttons. 
• Insert your smart card into the MDR reader socket to associate it with the PCs. 
• The smart card appears simultaneously on all PCs and is ready for use. 
• Smart card removal is simultaneously noticed by all coupled PCs and triggers the default removal behavior (Lock/Logoff/Other) as defined by each system’s administrator. 

Compliant with NIAP Common Criteria PP4.0 PSD Protection Profile