BKAUSFSN.RVW   960608
 
"Authentication Systems for Secure Networks", Rolf Oppliger, 1996, 0-89006-510-
1
%A   Rolf Oppliger
%C   685 Canton St., Norwood, MA   02062
%D   1996
%G   0-89006-510-1
%I   Artech House/Horizon
%O   617-769-9750 800-225-9977 fax: +1-617-769-6334 artech@world.std.com
%P   186
%T   "Authentication Systems for Secure Networks"
 
Given the relative scarcity of knowledge about data and communications
security, it seems rather odd to find a security book which comes right out,
first thing, and say that it is not intended to be tutorial.  However, Oppliger
does not spend much time on the basics.  (There is a general introduction to
security terminology and techniques, but only one chapter.)  The emphasis of
the book is on the explanation, review, and comparison of various systems for
ensuring the security of communications within a network over which the
security of physical links may be in doubt.
 
The systems covered include Kerberos, NetSP (Network Security Program), SPX
(Sphinx), TESS (The Exponential Security System), SESAME (Secure European
System for Applications in a Multivendor Environment), and OSF DCE (Open
Software Foundation's Distributed Computing Environment).  Kerberos get the
most space, probably since most of the rest are variously expansions or
refinements of the basic Kerberos concepts.  The examinations are detailed,
although not to the level necessary for implementation, and the overview looks
into individual strengths and weaknesses.  A final chapter does a side by side
comparison of the systems in terms of functions, cryptographic techniques,
standardization, availability, and exportability.
 
copyright Robert M. Slade, 1996   BKAUSFSN.RVW   960608

======================
roberts@decus.ca           rslade@vcn.bc.ca           rslade@vanisl.decus.ca
   "Ignorance is never out of style.  It was in fashion yesterday, it is the
      rage today, and it will set the pace tomorrow." -- Franklin K. Dane
Author "Robert Slade's Guide to Computer Viruses" 0-387-94663-2 (800-SPRINGER)