The new Password Policy Enforcer 5.0 enhances the security of Windows Server operating systems. The program has six new password policy rules, improved support for Windows Vista, and new password expiry options to simplify the introduction of new password policies. The new version has been introduced recently by ANIXIS. One of the six new password policy rules in Password Policy Enforcer 5.0 is a keyboard pattern rule, a first for the Windows platform. It reveals simple keyboard patterns like QWERTY, and also more complex patterns like QAZXCV and QAWSDF. Pattern matching parameters are configurable, allowing administrators to strike a balance between security and usability.

    The developers of the operating sistem implemented an interface to add new password policy rules, but a solid understanding of Windows system programming is needed to make use of it. ANIXIS Password Policy Enforcer offers the possibility to enforce granular password policies without programming. The rudimentary password policy features in Windows limit administrators to a single domain password policy with an on/off complexity option.

    The new product allows companies to control the rate of expiry, from as low as 2% of logons all the way to 20%. New policies can even be rolled out by group or organizational unit. Implementing the Windows Maximum Age rule for the first time can trigger hundreds or thousands of forced password changes the next morning. Introducing a new password policy can be difficult, especially for the help desk.

    The staff will also appreciate the optional Password Policy Client, as it helps users to select a compliant password. Instructional messages are automatically created for the defined password policies, and can be customized from the PPE management console. The program is the first to include client support for Windows Vista, both 32-bit and 64-bit editions. Windows 2003, XP and 2000 are also supported.

    First released in 1998, Password Policy Enforcer is the original configurable password filter for Windows. The program now guards over two million user accounts in 100 countries. Client networks range in size from 50 users to over 500,000 users.

For more information an evaluator's guide and 30-day trial download visit http://www.anixis.com/products/ppe/download.htm.