Sun Microsystems and Citrix, Smart Cards manual Required Reading/Other Resources

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Note – Unless your Windows environment is configured to perform PIN-based logins (either via a Microsoft Certificate Server infrastructure or via middleware) you should disable the Allow Smart Card Logon option for your Citrix Connection. It is important to note that this does NOT disable the smart card channel for use with other smart card-aware applications; it is just a very simple way to test the channel.

Required Reading/Other Resources

Smart card support in a Citrix environment depends on more than just the communication channel being established. Out-of-the-box Citrix smart card support is limited to logins only. Unfortunately, smart card-based logins are not trivial and require a fair amount of work to ensure proper operation. For more information on configuring the Windows environment for smart card logins see the following Microsoft article:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;257480

For information on enabling Smart Card Logon with Third Party Certification Authorities (such as would be the case with the Common Access Card) please see the following Microsoft Knowledge Base article:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;281245

Administrators of Citrix environments must configure Citrix to allow other applications, such as Outlook, middleware utilities, etc., to use the smart card channel. Use the SCCONFIG utility. For more information on using smart cards and Citrix please see the Citrix Advanced Concepts Guide.

http://support.citrix.com/servlet/KbServlet/download/2951-102- 9534/Feature_Release_3_Advanced_Concepts.pdf

10 Sun Ray, Smart Cards, and Citrix • May 2004

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Contents Sun Ray , Smart Cards, and Citrix Page Contents Iv Book Title Month Enabling Sun Ray Smart Card Pass-through to Citrix OverviewSun Ray Server Software and Patches Software RequirementsSolaris Operating Environment Citrix Client Hardware RequirementsSun Ray PC/SC Bypass Microsoft/Citrix Server ComponentsSun Ray Requirements Smart Card RequirementsInstallation Notes Installing the Sun Ray PC/SC BypassConfiguring and Testing Citrix Smart Card Support To Install and Configure Citrix ICA ClientCitrix ICA Client for Solaris window appears Connection Properties Screen appears Windows Desktop with Prompt for PIN-based Login Required Reading/Other Resources

Smart Cards, and Citrix specifications

Sun Microsystems was a technology company renowned for its contributions to computing and network systems. Founded in 1982 and famously recognized for its work in developing powerful servers, workstations, and the Solaris operating system, Sun played a critical role in the evolution of the tech industry. One notable aspect of Sun's innovation was its participation in identity management and security systems, particularly through collaboration with technologies like smart cards.

Smart cards are plastic cards embedded with microprocessors that offer secure capabilities such as authentication, storage, and security functions. They are utilized primarily in banking, telecommunications, and secure access control systems. With Sun’s strong focus on networked systems, its integration with smart card technology enhanced user authentication and management processes, thereby providing robust security solutions for its clients.

Citrix Systems, on the other hand, is a leading provider of virtualization technology and remote workspace solutions. Founded in 1989, Citrix specializes in application virtualization and desktop delivery, allowing users to access applications and data from any device with internet connectivity. One of Citrix's prominent products is Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops, which enables companies to deploy secure virtual desktops and applications to a diverse workforce.

The integration of smart cards into Citrix's ecosystem facilitates a more secure environment for virtualized applications. Users can access their virtual desktops and applications securely using smart cards, which serve as authentication tools. This eliminates the need for traditional username and password combinations, significantly reducing the risk of unauthorized access.

Smart cards are characterized by their physical and technological features. Typically, they contain embedded integrated circuits that manage data and communication securely. They come in various types: contact-based cards that require physical insertion into a reader and contactless cards that use NFC technology for ease of authentication.

Some key features of smart cards include two-factor authentication, data encryption, and secure storage capabilities. By employing smart card technology, enterprises can enhance their security protocols, ensuring that sensitive information and resources remain protected.

In summary, the convergence of Sun Microsystems' network expertise and Citrix's virtualization capabilities, combined with the robustness of smart card technology, illustrates a significant advancement in identity security and system access management. This collaboration enables organizations to operate efficiently while maintaining a high standard of security in an increasingly digital landscape.