XTec Incorporated issues PIV cards for National Science Foundation

Successfully completes implementation

Reston, Virginia -- XTec Incorporated has successfully completed its implementation of the Federal Government's Personal Identity Verification (PIV) program for the National Science Foundation.

XTec, an approved PIV end-to-end provider, was granted a contract by NSF to provide the PIV compliant system and the necessary infrastructure to comply with the Directive.

The National Science Foundation opted for the services offered by XTec to comply with the mandate. The system, which was submitted to stringent security certification by NSF, is provided, maintained and hosted by XTec, while all permissions and operations are controlled by NSF. The AuthentX Credential Management system is hosted by XTec at an ultra-secure, Tier-1 network facility that also houses a number of the federal government's IT operations.

This option provides the smaller agencies the capabilities of issuing PIV credentials in a cost effective manner without the major investment necessary to own, host and maintain their own Credential Management System.

NSF issued its first PIV Card on October 25, ahead of the mandated October 27, 2006 deadline.

As more PIV credentials are issued, NSF plans to upgrade its current access control system to fully utilize the capabilities of the PIV cards in order to meet the October 2008 deadline set by HSPD-12.

XTec was able to capitalize on the years of experience in credentialing and access control at the Department of State and multiple federal agencies in achieving an HSPD-12 "End-to-End" compliant program. By utilizing its own technologies, XTec is able to deliver a complete solution to both large and small agencies. The modular approach to HSPD-12 implemented in XTec's AuthentX product line helps shorten the time it takes to make an entire organization compliant regardless of size.

About XTec

XTec is a leader in secure, interoperable authentication and verification systems. XTec develops, produces, and licenses enterprise level security solutions for Credentialing, Access Control, Information Systems, and Electronic Commerce for a wide range of government and commercial uses. XTec's focus is on providing a secure foundation from which customers can build secure enterprise web-based applications and cryptographic systems. XTec has a long-standing relationship with the Department of Homeland Security (formerly the United States Secret Service or USSS) for document security using XTec equipment to assist in the forensic tracing of counterfeit cards. XTec is a recognized leader in both government and commercial circles for its expertise and products for credentialing, identity, secure payment, and access control.