A global provider of systems software and virtualization technology for embedded systems, Open Kernel Labs (OK Labs), announced today the new version of OKL4 2.0 tackles the security and reliability challenges embedded developers face in creating enterprise-safe connected devices for end users, carriers and enterprises, its open source microkernel software. Being the first to offer Secure HyperCell™ technology, which provides a secure environment for operating systems, applications and drivers on mobile devices, the OK Labs microkernel-based OKL4 2.0 virtualization and system-software platform enables developers to address the threat of hackers, malware and poorly behaved code that increasingly jeopardize end users, carriers and enterprises of all sizes.

40 percent of American adults plan to purchase a new wireless handset within the year, according to the Consumer Electronics Association’s (CEA) Wireless Phone Data and Entertainment Services study. CEA estimates that, in addition, smartphone factory-to-dealer sales will exceed $8 billion in 2008, making it one of the fastest-growing markets for embedded devices. New security and reliability issues for end users, carriers and enterprises comes with this growth. Safe and secure operation of the entire network will be jeopardized by faults and attacks, if these challenges are not taken into consideration in the overall design and architecture.

By encapsulating critical components into individual Secure HyperCells, developers of smart, connected devices, using OKL4 as a trusted platform, can make their products enterprise-safe. Without undermining the security of the existing system, a Secure HyperCell protects its contents from the rest of the system and from unwanted communication with other cells, making it possible to add functionality incrementally. By implementing multiple secure cells, this unprecedented level of security is achieved, operating in user mode, under the control of a hypervisor that operates in privileged mode, which allows the development and configuration of a system running in completely virtualized yet protected spaces without requiring access to privileged mode at any point.

While keeping the entire system enterprise-safe, developers can add new functionality with OKL4. This helps end users meet the requirements needed to connect easily and to use their device in any setting including personal and work environments.

Developers need to design smart, connected devices that are secure and reliable enough to protect consumers, carriers and enterprises, with carriers such as Verizon and AT&T announcing that they are opening their networks to out-of-network handsets. OKL4 provides a trustworthy environment where applications and operating systems are secure and protected, enabling developers to alleviate the risk of out-of-network devices for end users, carriers and enterprises.