M2M-focussed mobile network operator Stream Communications has introduced a quick and secure way to access remote devices. Removing the need for software installation and network configuration, Dina is a secure alternative to fixed public IP address.
The Dina direct inbound network access platform is built on the company’s APN access point name architecture, and uses multiple points of presence to give users a fully resilient and robust connection to their remote devices.
“Through the provision of thousands of sim cards for secure, robust communication it has become clear that there is a need for a less complex alternative to VPNs and the short comings of fixed public IP,” said Nigel Chadwick (pictured), founding director of Stream. “Standard fixed public IP addressing just does not provide the security and resilience needed for modern M2M solutions. Unsolicited traffic to a fixed public IP address is a particular problem because it is billed to the sim, which can lead to substantial, unexpected data charges.”
Dina works by creating an association between a user’s IP address, a Stream sim card and a public IP address. The device can then only be accessed from the IP address specified in the association. This association can only be made by an authenticated user, either through a simple web interface, or a web API allowing access to be built into consumer products.
Once associated, Dina allows passing of most TCP and UDP protocols and provides a full bidirectional connection between their IP and M2M device. If a sim is not associated to a public IP address, Dina will automatically adjust the APN firewall to block any unknown or unsolicited access to the device.
“Using Dina is as simple as going to a web page from anywhere in the world,” said Chadwick. “Within a few clicks you have access to your M2M device and the communication to the sim card is going to be more secure, reliable and cost effective than current solutions.”
