Tech Bytes: Verisign, ISS Combine To Protect 'Applets'

Digital certification vendor Verisign Inc. said it has joined forces with Internet Security Systems Inc. of Atlanta to protect Java and Active-X programs.

Java, a computer language developed by Sun Microsystems Inc., and Active-X, a Microsoft Corp. invention, are used to create "applets" that can be transported and downloaded via the Internet.

To ensure safe downloading and avert unauthorized intrusions, Internet Security Systems said its RealSecure software will monitor internal and external networks for Active-X and Java applets and determine whether they have been certified with Verisign Digital IDs.

It could terminate connections with unsigned applets or those that have had their IDs revoked.

"Together, ISS and Verisign are providing a practical way for customers to leverage active content on their networks without creating information risks or decreasing network performance," said Verisign president and chief executive officer Stratton Sclavos.