In 2014 the team hit the headlines worldwide when they demonstrated the first threat to Wi-Fi systems from viruses that could spread from site to site over the air.
Professor Marshall comments: “Wi-Fi has now become ubiquitous, and is used in almost every aspect of our daily lives. Consequently ensuring the security of these networks and maintaining privacy for the clients who use them has become a key issue, particularly for public and open networks, where the challenge is to balance security against the convenience offered by Wi-Fi Internet access. “
TOM’s SpriteGuardTM portfolio of products includes a cloud-based management monitoring dashboard and analytics portal. SpriteGuardTM provides a unique insight into the Wi-Fi environment, allowing the security performance of a public or open Wi-Fi system to be assessed. At its core the SpriteGuardTM product range will allow establishments offering free Wi-Fi access the ability to monitor, detect and where necessary remove rogue access points and other vulnerabilities within the Wi-Fi environment.
In addition the development team at TOM are looking to engage with regulators and those offering free Wi-Fi to offer solutions that satisfy both parties which can be at odds, as demonstrated by the US Federal Communications Commission decision to fine Marriott Hotels for blocking guest Wi-Fi access even though the action was based on security concerns. TOM believes the SpriteGuardTM offering may alleviate the FCC’s unease in such circumstances.
Doug Stellman of Enterprise Ventures said: “TOM’s technology offers a proven and low-cost way for Wi-Fi providers such as hotels, banks and retailers to monitor and safeguard their networks and therefore their valued customers, The company has already attracted interest from Wi-Fi equipment suppliers as well as companies that install and manage Wi-Fi systems for other companies, or provide free Wi-Fi to customers directly.
“The funding will enable TOM to bring its SpriteGuardTM product range to market, develop pilot projects in all the key industry sectors, establish partnerships with Wi-Fi providers and licensees and attract further rounds of funding.”
