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Zero Trust Data Insights
Research, guidance, and analysis on data-layer security, AI governance, and zero trust architecture from the XQ team.
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LATEST POST
From Sovereign Trust to Sovereign Data: How XQ Enables Resilient Defense Ecosystems
In a recent article, CGI Defense & Intelligence Global Industry Lead Torsten Bernström argues that resilience is no longer simply an operational…
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From Sovereign Trust to Sovereign Data: How XQ Enables Resilient Defense Ecosystems
In a recent article, CGI Defense & Intelligence Global Industry Lead Torsten Bernström argues that resilience is no longer simply an operational…
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Why Data Sovereignty Matters More Than the AI Model — and What It Means for the Enterprise
The podcast’s central argument aligns closely with XQ’s view of the next phase of cybersecurity: the strategic question is no longer simply where AI runs…
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XQ Sovereign Data Governance
How sovereign data governance changes the calculus for organizations operating across jurisdictions — and why the data layer is the only place to enforce it.
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Why XQ and Xage Are Better Together: Extending Zero Trust from Identity to Data and AI
Identity-layer zero trust stops attackers at the door. Data-layer zero trust ensures that even authenticated users can only touch what policy allows.
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Infrastructure No Longer Defines Risk: Why AI-Driven Data Exposure Is the New Battleground
Perimeter security assumed data stayed inside known boundaries. AI changes that permanently — and the response has to happen at the data layer.
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From Policy to Practice: Operationalizing Data Sovereignty Through Zero Trust
Data sovereignty policies are easy to write and hard to enforce. Zero Trust Data makes enforcement automatic, object-level, and auditable.
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ATCO Ventures Invests in XQ: Accelerating the Future of Zero Trust Data Security
ATCO Ventures joins the XQ investor base, bringing critical infrastructure expertise and expanding XQ’s reach into energy and operational technology sectors.
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UAV Data Security
XQ is a Zero Trust Data Security platform designed to protect sensitive information at the data layer—independent of devices, networks, or infrastructure.…
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UAV Data Security: Zero Trust at the Tactical Edge
Unmanned systems generate and transmit ISR data in DDIL environments. XQ ensures that data is encrypted and policy-bound before it ever leaves the platform.
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From Perimeter to Policy: Why Zero Trust Must Anchor Global Data Governance
The EU AI Act, Schrems II, and CMMC 2.0 all converge on one requirement: prove that you control your data wherever it goes. Zero Trust Data is how.
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CMMC Assessment Postmortem with Chris Haigh of C3PAO Meerkat Cyber
A frank conversation with a C3PAO assessor about where DIB contractors fail CMMC Level 2 — and how data-layer controls close the gaps that perimeter tools miss.
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Federal Cybersecurity Compliance Is Evolving — And Zero Trust Data Is the Catalyst
CISA, NSA, and OMB are aligning on a data-centric security model. Here is what that means for federal agencies and their contractors.
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Why Encryption Keys Must Live Outside Third Parties — and How Zero Trust Data Solves the Problem
When your cloud provider holds your keys, they hold your data. Externalized key management is not optional — it is the foundation of real sovereignty.
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How Zero Trust Data Aligns with the NSA’s Zero Trust Implementation Guidelines and Industry Best Practices
On January 14, 2026, the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) published the first in its Zero Trust Implementation Guidelines (ZIGs) series, a Primer and a…
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How Zero Trust Data Aligns with the NSA’s Zero Trust Implementation Guidelines
The NSA’s seven pillars of zero trust include a dedicated data pillar — and XQ is the only platform purpose-built to address it at the object level.
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AESO / NERC CIP Compliance Through XQ Data Centric Governance
XQ aligns with AESO-adopted NERC CIP requirements by enforcing data-centric Zero Trust controls that operate independently of network location, cloud…
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How XQ Uniquely Delivers on ACP 240 with Zero Trust Data
With the formal adoption of Allied Communication Publication (ACP) 240 by FVEY partners and allied nations, data-centric, Zero Trust collaboration is no…
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It’s easier than we thought to poison an AI model
The article titled “Poisoning Attacks on LLMs Require a Near-constant Number of Poison Samples” (arXiv:2510.07192) states that it is easier than previously…
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Zero Trust AI-Managed PQC (ZAP): The Future of Secure Mobility
Post-quantum cryptography transitions are complex. ZAP automates algorithm agility at the data layer — ensuring objects stay protected through cryptographic migrations.
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Meerkat Cyber Achieves C3PAO Certification from the DoD Using XQ Zero Trust Data Protection Platform
Integration with Microsoft Office Secures Email and File Workflows, Enhancing Meerkat Cyber’s Secure C3PAO Enclave
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Meerkat Cyber Achieves C3PAO Certification Using XQ Zero Trust Data Protection
Meerkat Cyber becomes one of the first C3PAOs to achieve certification using XQ as its core CUI protection layer — a validation of the data-centric CMMC approach.
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The AI Trust Crisis: Why Zero Trust Data Is the Missing Link
Organizations are deploying AI at scale without governing what data those systems can access. Zero Trust Data is how you establish trust boundaries that actually hold.
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Zero Trust AI for Classified Data: The Future of Secure AI in Federal Enclaves
Federal agencies need AI that can operate on sensitive and classified data without exposing it. XQ’s data-layer approach makes that possible — at IL4, IL5, and beyond.
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Zero Trust UAS Group – ZTUG Introductory Paper
The Zero Trust UAS Group (ZTUG) is a U.S. government research consortium focused on securing Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for mission-critical federal…
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How MSPs Can Streamline CMMC Compliance with XQ Data Protection Policies
For Managed Service Providers (MSPs), supporting defense contractors on their CMMC journey is both a responsibility and an opportunity. The challenge lies…
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Loss of Chain of Custody in Healthcare Imaging Data: Impacts and Solutions
In healthcare, imaging data such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans serve as critical evidence in legal cases involving misdiagnosis, malpractice, or insurance…
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Why GCC Moderate + XQ is Ideal for CMMC Compliance
Bottom Line: GCC Moderate provides the secure cloud foundation, XQ enforces Zero Trust data governance, and together they streamline achieving and…
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GCC Moderate + XQ ITAR Compliance Implementation Plan
This implementation plan outlines how to leverage XQ’s data sovereignty, geo-fencing, and role-based access controls to make Microsoft’s Government…
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New CMMC Rule: Treatment of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in Transit
The newly introduced CMMC rule provides clarity on handling CUI during transmission . Specifically, the rule states that a common carrier’s information…
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ITAR Compliance in the Digital Age: A Zero Trust Approach to Defense Data Security
The International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) represent one of the most stringent data protection frameworks in existence, governing how…
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Data Sovereignty and Residency in CMMC Compliance
Under CMMC requirements, data sovereignty plays a critical role in ensuring that Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is stored, processed, and…
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GCC vs. GCC High: Key Differences and CMMC Relevance
Government contractors handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must choose the right Microsoft cloud environment to meet the requirements of the…
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Carahsoft Launches Zero Trust Solutions Storefront Powered by AWS Marketplace for Public Sector
XQ is excited to share a transformative development in secure, streamlined technology acquisition for the public sector!
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CMMC: FedRAMP Requirements for Security Protection Assets
Safeguarding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is a cornerstone of cybersecurity for organizations within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). As DIB…
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Position Paper: Why XQ Surpasses PreVeil for CMMC Level 2 Compliance
This position paper demonstrates why XQ Message provides a superior solution to PreVeil for organizations seeking CMMC Level 2 compliance. Key advantages…
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ZTAG-I, a reference zero trust architecture for the US federal government
The federal government’s journey toward zero trust architecture represents one of the most significant cybersecurity transformations in modern history. With…
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IoT Security Challenge: Multiple Sensors & Management Systems Require Governance
Large-scale IoT deployments across energy, logistics, manufacturing, and transportation sectors face two critical challenges: fragmented protection systems…
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Data Sovereignty and Resiliency through Zero Trust Data
In today’s global digital economy, data sovereignty isn’t just a regulatory box to check—it’s a strategic imperative. Multinational corporations, government…
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Data Sovereignty Governance for Secure Cloud Adoption
Control geographic data access everywhere
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How Zero Trust Data Secures and Enhances AI-Driven SCADA Systems
AI is transforming Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems , enabling smarter automation, predictive maintenance, and real-time…
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How Zero Trust Data Meets IEC 62443 Regulations
XQ Zero Trust Data Security aligns with key IEC 62443 standards by ensuring data protection, secure access, and compliance with industrial cybersecurity requirements. Below is a breakdown of how XQ meets specific IEC 62443 requirements:
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How XQ Protects Your Files from Ransomware Extortion | Zero Trust Data Security
Insider Threat Data Exfiltration: Stopping the “Snowden Effect”
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Zero Trust Data Compliance on AWS from Bob Gourley, Derek Doerr, and Junaid Islam
This educational video provides an overview of how #aws reduces the cost and complexity of compliance using a #zerotrust security architecture. This video…
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Enhancing Microsoft Purview with XQ’s Zero Trust Data Platform
Integrating XQ’s Zero Trust Data Platform can significantly enhance Purview’s capabilities
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Data²s reView: AI Analytics for Government & Defense Powered by XQ Vault
Enhancing Intelligence and Cybersecurity with XQ and Data Squared Review
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How Zero Trust Data Protects Patient & Sensitive Data in AI for Healthcare
AI in healthcare relies on vast amounts of patient records, medical imaging, genomic data, and real-time monitoring data. However, AI models are only as…
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Healthcare CISOs’ Ransomware Extortion Crisis
The recent ransomware attack on McLaren Health Care, affecting over 17,000 employees and exposing sensitive data, underscores a critical truth: traditional…
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How Zero Trust Data Exceeds the Purdue Model for Industrial Security
How XQ Meets or Exceeds the Purdue Model for Industrial Security — XQ Message
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How Zero Trust Data Differs from Traditional Data Loss Prevention
Zero Trust Data differs from traditional Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solutions in several key ways:
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Key Questions for a Cybersecurity Gap Analysis in Data Protection
How to Conduct a Zero Trust Data Gap Analysis
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How to create a Zero Trust Data Privacy and Security Program
Adopting a Zero Trust Data (ZTD) framework provides the basis for a secure and compliant privacy program.
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How XQ Zero Trust Data API Seamlessly Integrates with Any Technology
The XQ Zero Trust Data API is built to provide unparalleled flexibility and ease of integration with virtually any technology stack, enabling organizations…
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Executive Order on Strengthening and Promoting Innovation in the Nation’s Cybersecurity
XQ Zero Trust Data Security offers comprehensive solutions that align with the goals of this executive order, helping organizations meet and exceed these cybersecurity requirements.
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Why Microsoft Data Sovereignty Falls Short
Microsoft Azure faces certain data sovereignty shortcomings that organizations need to consider.
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Report on EU Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) and XQ’s Compliance Support
This report provides an overview of DORA’s key requirements, outlines potential compliance challenges, and demonstrates how XQ’s solutions can help organizations meet these regulatory standards efficiently while reducing operational costs.
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XQ IEC 62443 Compliance
Zero Trust Data solutions help IoT systems meet IEC 62443 regulations by addressing critical security requirements for industrial automation and control systems (IACS).
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CRA Cyber Compliance
According to a European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) report , around 60% of companies faced issues during cybersecurity audits in 2023, primarily related to inadequate documentation and failure to meet security standards.
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Beyond MFA: Enhancing Data Governance
Attackers who use stolen credentials to pose as legitimate users can exfiltrate data unnoticed.
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Titan Cloud Storage Partners with XQ Message to Deliver Industry’s First Zero Trust by Default Cloud Storage Solution
Titan Cloud Storage, a leading provider of secure and scalable cloud storage solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with XQ Message, a strong leader in Zero Trust data protection.
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FIPS 199 and XQ’s Role in Security Categorization
XQ’s encryption and data security solutions align with FIPS 199 by enabling organizations to protect data confidentiality, integrity, and availability across all impact levels.
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CISA Compliance: XQ Contribution
Zero Trust Data plays a significant role in helping organizations comply with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) guidelines.
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FISMA Compliance Controls: XQ’s Contribution
Compliance with FISMA is achieved through adherence to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800-53 (NIST 800-53) controls.
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XQ Automated Key Management Use Cases
XQ acts as an automated external key management system, creating a data leash for every data object.
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Titan Zero Trust Cloud Storage Powered by XQ
Titan has partnered with XQ Message to create the world’s first Zero Trust by default cloud storage platform.
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Effortless Compliance: Mastering Healthcare Data ‘Right to Be Forgotten’ in Cloud Backups
The “right to be forgotten” in the context of healthcare, especially when data is stored in cloud backups, is governed by several regulations depending on the region. Here’s an overview of the key regulations.
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Why does Zero Trust Data matter?
Zero Trust Data answers what to do when your network and application security inevitably fail.
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Free CMMC Scoring Tool
Free and Easy CMMC Scoring Calculator
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AWS Zero Trust for Government
XQ has been included in #AWS’s Zero Trust for Government Partnership. AWS Partner solutions align with the five functional components of the NIST Zero Trust Framework. XQ fulfills this framework’s Zero Trust Data component, and we’re excited to work with government interests to meet their Zero Trust compliance objectives.
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Learn about AWS Zero Trust for DoD at the DC Summit
XQ has been included in #AWS’s Zero Trust for Government Partnership. AWS Partner solutions align with the five functional components of the NIST Zero Trust Framework. XQ fulfills this framework’s Zero Trust Data component, and we’re excited to work with government interests to meet their Zero Trust compliance objectives.
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Snowflake Breach: Learn how to Keep your Data Safe in Snowflake
Deep dive into the Snowflake breach. Learn how to add granular access control that adds additional security beyond MFA in Snowflake.
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Summary: Unleashing the Power of Collaborative Intelligence with Generative AI, Zero Trust Encryption, and Knowledge Graph Technology
Despite its sophistication, the IC faces the issue of “stovepiping,” where poor interagency communication hampers effective intelligence collaboration. To address this, Data Squared’s reView platform and XQMsg’s Zero Trust encryption capabilities offer a solution that enhances intelligence sharing while maintaining data security.
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Deployment of XQ’s Zero Trust Secure Gateway on Ubiquiti UniFi UDM Pro
How to configure your Ubiquiti Router for Zero Trust
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External Security and Governance for Snowflake
Snowflake can expose critical data internally and externally with no audit trail of sharing, viewing, or exfiltration. XQ offers a robust solution that significantly enhances the security of your Snowflake database offering ABAC, RBAC, and data residency at the record level.
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Implementing Zero Trust Strategy
Zero Trust is a cybersecurity framework developed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to help organizations achieve cyber resiliency. However, many organizations find it challenging to implement a Zero Trust strategy. It is essential to recognize that Zero Trust is an ongoing process rather than a one-time product. Understanding its key tenets and how they can be mapped to core solutions is crucial for successful implementation. This document outlines an approach to implementing Zero Trust, providing a defensible framework and practical applications for creating a comprehensive solution stack.
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XQ’s Zero Trust Data Supports M-23-02 Migration to Post Quantum Cryptography (PQC)
OMB 20-03 defines a process model for new PQC algorithms, from validation to certification to deployment. XQ’s role is to provide a toolset for the contractors/integrators doing the work to run specific algorithms, facilitate the integration of these algorithms into applications via our API, and use the algorithms for email, file, and data transfer protection.
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Secure Citrix ShareFile with XQ Vault
Adding Zero Trust Data security to Citrix ShareFile offers several benefits that enhance security and data protection. Zero Trust Data applies role-based access control (RBAC) and Attribute-based access control (ABAC) applied to Citrix ShareFile adds a necessary external control channel.
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Harnessing Data-Driven Healthcare for Achieving Excellence
The transformative potential of data in healthcare cannot be understated, as it has the power to revolutionize how medical decisions are made, treatments are administered, and resources are allocated. By addressing the issue of the lack of data-driven healthcare, we can pave the way for a brighter future in medicine.
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Next Cloud Encrypted with XQ – AWS EC2/S3 Setup & Configuration
By integrating Zero Trust data security principles, Nextcloud can significantly enhance its security posture, ensuring robust protection of sensitive data, compliance with regulations, and improved operational efficiency, all while maintaining a positive user experience.
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Embracing Zero Trust: A Paradigm Shift in Healthcare Cybersecurity
In a recent discussion, cybersecurity expert Junaid Islam shed light on the transformative potential of adopting a Zero Trust approach in safeguarding sensitive healthcare data. The zero trust model is essentially about questioning everything and not assuming that just because someone or something has entered the system, it can be trusted implicitly.
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Snowflake Secure Role-Based Access Control & External Sharing
XQ + Snowflake adds security and governance at the data level, enabling secure external sharing. This solves the problem of secure data transfer between Snowflake partners. Through the XQ Automated External Key Store, this video illustrates how you can secure role based access at the data object level. XQ is a zero trust data security platform that protects, enforces polices, and monitors data beyond the bounds of a single environment.
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Preparing For CMMC 2.1 Workshop and Guidance
Unlocking CMMC 2.1 Mastery: A Workshop and Guidance Session with Ingram Micro feat.
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Snowflake + XQ: Snowflake Zero Trust Data Demo
One of the challenges facing #datawarehouses such as #snowflake is ensuring regulated data doesn’t leak out or is stolen. Additionally regulators often…
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SEC Action Against SolarWinds Changes Everything
SEC’s action against hashtag#solarwinds will change the industry. For the first time, internal email communications on action or inaction can be used against executives.
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Improving Care By Simplifying Secure information Sharing
Here’s a podcast from Healthcare IT News on how Zero Trust Data can simplify the secure sharing of patient data. Thanks for XQ partners Ingram Micro…
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Navigating the Pentagon’s CMMC 2.0 Announcement: Your Path with XQ
In a recent and significant development, the Pentagon has unveiled a pivotal announcement that carries profound implications for the cybersecurity landscape…
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Cybersecurity Snapshot: What is a smart city?
Join us as the Smart Cities Council team and members from around the world talk to the people and places advancing the application of science, data…
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Secure Healthcare Cloud Transformation on AWS -XQ & KEYSTONE HIMSS 2023
Ingram Micro: AWS Healthcare Partner Path Keystone: Secure EMR hosting on AWS: Our EMR solution architecture, built on the AWS Cloud, empowers our customers…
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Executive Order 14028 “Improving the Nation’s Cybersecurity”: Streamline Compliance Using XQ’s Zero Trust Data
Executive Order 14028 guides Federal Agencies and their prime contractors to protect to adopt zero trust cybersecurity principles and adjust their network architectures accordingly.
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Cyber Security – Sustainability Innovations, Washington, D.C.
Cybersecurity – Sustainable Innovations Moderator: Alby Bocanegra, Futurist in Residence, Smart Cities Council;Panel: Katie Savage, Secretary, Department of Information Technology, MarylandBrian Wane, CEO, XQ MessageMark Wheeler, CIO PhiladelphiaNeal Jardine, Global Cyber Risk Intelligence & Claims Director, BOXX Insurance Inc.
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XQ Message for DFARS 7012 on Single and Multi-Tenant Storage
Organizations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) are subject to DFARS 252.204-7012 (AKA DFARS 7012). This clause addresses specific (c)-(g) requirements for cyber incident reporting, NIST SP 800-171 security controls, and stipulates the FedRAMP Baseline Moderate or equivalent standard for organizations using cloud services. XQ and DFARS 7012 Requirements In addition to supporting organizations in meeting CMMC 2.0 technology solutions – 77 of Level 2’s 110 NIST SP 800-171 requirements – XQ accepts and, where applicable, can support users in meeting DFARS 7012 requirements.
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Strengthening your CMMC 2.0 Go-To-Market with Microsoft
Are you a defense contractor preparing for the Cyber Maturity Model Certification 2.0 (CMMC 2.0)? This webinar will ensure you meet the new standards set by the Department of Defense (DoD) and protect sensitive data throughout the supply chain. Our experts discuss the consequences of non-compliance and provide practical solutions to help you achieve compliance. Learn the ins and outs of CMMC 2.0, including the different levels of certification and the specific requirements. Discover our exclusive XQ solution for CMMC 2.0 compliance using Microsoft 365 Business Premium.
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Learn About Secure Healthcare Cloud Transformation at Our HIMSS Talk!
Are you at HIMSS this week? XQ is participating in the AWS HIMSS Partner Theater Talk series, and we want to see you there! This Thursday, Kelby Price will be presenting on Secure Healthcare Cloud Transformation on AWS with Keystone Technologies’ Andy Belval and Ingram Micro Cloud’s Jason Singer!
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CMMC For Healthcare: Boost Immunity Against HIPAA Penalties with Recognized Security Practices
Thanks to never before seen levels of PHI data and advanced cyber threats, covered entities and business associates are increasingly vulnerable to data loss incidents and HIPAA penalties. The Safe Harbor Bill (H.R.7898) can help insulate organizations from HIPAA penalties if they adopt recognized security practices like CMMC.
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Zero Trust Data for Healthcare: Privacy, Security, and HIPAA Compliance For the 21st Century
The digital era has brought about advancements in healthcare, but has also presented challenges in securing health data. Traditional cybersecurity methods have become inadequate in protecting sensitive information from external threats. XQ’s Zero Trust Data offers enhanced protection and oversight, simplified and future-proofed compliance, minimized data loss, and supports patient autonomy.
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The SMB’s Survival Guide to CMMC 2.0
While CMMC 2.0 is a welcome improvement over CMMC 1.0, the CMMC landscape remains a challenge for many smaller businesses. CMMC non-compliance threatens a business’s survival, but its requirements may still feel impossible for many SMBs. Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place!
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Next IT & Systems, Leonard McDowell, & XQ Message Announce Zero Trust Data Partnership for High Value Applications
Next IT & Systems, Leonard McDowell, and XQ Message announce their collaboration on a new international partnership to bring zero trust data to protect high value applications: International collaboration brings a new technology governance framework to drive trust, sustainability, and innovation on a global scale:
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The System Security Plan: What It Is, Why It Matters for CMMC, and How to Get Started on Yours
The rollout of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC, or CMMC 2.0) means it is now more important than ever for defense contractors to ensure that they have a comprehensive cybersecurity program in place. One crucial component of a good cybersecurity program is a System Security Plan (SSP). In this blog post, we’ll explain what an SSP is, why it’s important for CMMC, and provide tips on developing an SSP.
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XQ vs. GCC High
Comparing XQ with GCC High reveals some important truths for Defense Industrial Base (DIB) (sub)contractors and vendors. XQ is less expensive, faster to deploy, easier to use, and better adapted to today’s risk landscape. For many DIB members, XQ is the smarter choice.
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Five Benefits to Achieving CMMC 2.0 Compliance Now
CMMC compliance provides numerous benefits for defense contractors and suppliers. By achieving CMMC certification, your organization can gain a competitive advantage, build relationships with prime contractors, improve its cybersecurity posture, increase trust with customers and partners, reduce liability, and simplify compliance efforts. As the DoD ramps up NIST 800-171 audits and certification requirements for DoD contract eligibility become increasingly imminent, there’s no better time to start your organization’s CMMC journey.
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XQ and Strategic Communications Announce their Partnership Designed to Bring XQ’s Breakthrough Zero Trust Solutions to the Public Sector
trategic Communications, a leading cloud services and IT solutions integrator, recently partnered with Zero Trust Solution Provider XQ. This partnership aims to bring XQ’s solutions to federal and state agencies, helping them improve their critical infrastructure’s security and privacy.
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Why use XQ for CMMC Compliance?
Incorporating XQ means you get incredibly safe, secure, and compliant customization on the infrastructure you control. Wherever and however you already work, simplify your sharing, upgrade your security, and achieve compliance quickly, cheaply, and effectively. If you’re still not ready for the May 2023 onset of CMMC, we can help. Book a time to talk, email us, or subscribe to our CMMC newsletter now!
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Scoping for CMMC Level 2
Scoping is a key part of the CMMC assessment process. Per CMMC Assessment Guide Level 2, “The CMMC Assessment Scope informs which assets within the contractor’s environment will be assessed and the details of the assessment.” In other words, scope determines which organizational assets are relevant when conducting CMMC assessment and certification. Scoping can be confusing, so we’ve dedicated this post to simplifying things for our readers.
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Preparing for CMMC Assessment, Part Two
Are you interested in learning more about preparing for CMMC assessment, including gap analysis, gap closure, and documentation? Read on! If you missed the first post, see Preparing For CMMC Assessment, Part One !
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Preparing for CMMC Assessment, Part One
This blog is part one of a two-part series outlining the steps contractors can take, regardless of their unique conditions or approaches, to begin ‘doing’ CMMC. Following these blog posts will be individual posts outlining how to accomplish the listed steps in even greater detail. Today’s blog outlines steps one through three.
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Introduction to CMMC Level 2
Unlike CMMC Level 1, compliance with Level 2 practices cannot be self-assessed. The formal Level 2 CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) can take months to complete! Understand the CMMC Level 2 Assessment Process and begin preparations for CMMC before requirements appear in DoD contracts in May 2023! This blog introduces CMMC Level 2 Requirements The formal CMMC Assessment Process (CAP)
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Understanding CMMC: Domain Groups
CMMC practices are organized into 14 domains, which are categories that reflect the areas of security that the practices cover. These include Access Control, Awareness and Training, Audit and Accountability, Configuration Management, Identification and Authentication, Incident Response, Maintenance, Media Protection, Personnel Security, Physical Protection, Risk Assessment, Security Assessment, System and Communications Protection, and System and Information Integrity. Each domain contains a different amount of practices, and with each level of certification, more practices are needed.
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Zero Trust Data: A New Capability From The DoD To Enable Secure Information Sharing
XQ ZTD Based CMMC Level 2 Compliance For Microsoft 365 Business Premium Email and Files is the primary operational mode for many small businesses and Microsoft 365 Business Premium is already the market leader. XQ’s Zero Trust Data (ZTD) can be added to a small business account within an hour to provide 94 of the 110 requirements to meet Level 2 CMMC compliance.
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Introduction to CMMC Level 1
While contractors can use outside support (like a Certified CMMC Professional or even C3PAO), CMMC Level 1 compliance is ultimately self-assessed and the contractor’s responsibility. Contractors scope and evaluate their compliance using the CMMC Level 1 Assessment Guide, based on the assessment guidelines described in NIST Special Publication (SP) 800-171A Section 2.1 and whose practices align with FAR Clause 52.204-21.
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What is CMMC? An Introduction to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification
What is the Difference Between CMMC 1.0 and CMMC 2.0? After the initial version of CMMC (CMMC 1.0) was met with widespread criticism, the DoD modified the framework. The DoD replaced the 2019 framework with CMMC 2.0 in 2021. It is a more dynamic, flexible, and industry-friendly version of the original. CMMC’s redesign is focused on reducing compliance and certification costs, especially for small businesses; building trust in the assessment ecosystem; and (3) redefining CMMC cybersecurity requirements in alignment with widely recognized cybersecurity standards.
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Announcing XQ’s CMMC Series
Malicious cyber actors are increasingly targeting the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) sector and the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain. By exploiting vulnerabilities in cyber security, bad actors can steal valuable intellectual property and sensitive information, undercutting technical advantages, impairing innovation, and increasing risks to national security. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a product of the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) need to protect American interests against this growing threat. CMMC improves, standardizes, and verifies cyber hygiene practices across the DIB. It outlines the required cyber security measures DIB members must take to protect non-classified, sensitive information across three maturity levels. Each level prescribes security practices commensurate with the sensitivity and risk of a specific category of information or data.
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New DoD Zero Trust Data Guidelines
The DoD published an update to its Zero Trust Strategy (attached). The most important item is data’s increased role in their Zero Trust strategy. In the past, the DoD defined Zero Trust primarily from a network, device, and identity perspective (the data component was not prominent). Two changes drive the evolution of the DoD’s Zero Trust Strategy; 1/ the growth of sensor/imaging data and ensuring that it is available to front-line personnel and 2/real-world experience from Ukraine in which wireless networks are continuously jammed. These two factors have resulted in a new warfighting model in which mission-critical data is stored at the edge along with authorization policies. In fact, the only example of Zero Trust in action on Page 6 is about moving away from the older approach to locking down data in one place to allowing any authorized user to access data WHENEVER and WHEREVER they are (they actually capitalize those words).
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Privacy Penalties and the Dangers of Non-Compliance
Recent high-profile cyber security breaches illustrate the extraordinary costs that failing to maintain robust and effective cyber defenses presents across industries. The examples below reveal that companies incur significant losses due to financial settlements, steep regulatory penalties, loss of reputation, and penalties.
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Transfer: XQ Zero Trust Data Protection Gateway – Part 3
This is the third part in a multi-part tutorial series on deploying and managing XQ’s Secure Gateway. In this video, we will cover deploying your first gateway.
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Transfer: XQ Zero Trust Data Protection Gateway – Part 2
this is the second part of a multi-part tutorial series on deploying and managing XQ’s Secure Gateway. In this video, we will cover configuring your first XQ Secure Gateway.
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Transfer: XQ Zero Trust Data Protection Gateway – Part 1
in this multi-part tutorial series, we will show you how to deploy and manage XQ’s Secure Gateway. In this video, we will cover XQ’s Gateway Web Portal. Secondly, we will walk through configuring your first gateway and deploying XQ’s Secure Gateway on Ubuntu.
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The Promise and Peril of Smart Technologies: Embracing Opportunities and Managing Privacy Risk
Exponential improvements in computing power mean that smart technologies can help communities tackle civic challenges efficiently and effectively to ensure equitable outcomes. Following a trust-centric resident-first approach, we outline five ideas that could help foster community empowerment.
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Understanding What Zero Trust Is (w/ Junaid Islam, Co-Founder of XQ Message)
Organizations need to adopt a new security model to protect their clients, teams, data, and applications effectively. In a Cyber Security Matters episode, hosts Dominic Vogel and Christian Redshaw joined Junaid Islam, Co-Founder of XQ Message, the leader in data-centric digital trust discuss the best security practices for organizations, Zero Trust, and concerns in cyberspace.
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The Digital Trust Initiative is established at Discovery Park District at Purdue
New collaboration at the Discovery Park District at Purdue is creating a technology governance framework to empower its citizens to drive trust, sustainability and innovation.
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Quick Deploy Zero Trust Cybersecurity
Listen to the latest podcast featuring our very own Junaid Islam, CTO of XQ Msg, and learn how XQ is securing the future of Smart Cities with quick deployment of Zero Trust Cybersecurity.
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Future of Cybersecurity is ‘Friction-less Zero Trust Data’
The three key points for this short – 10-minute podcast are: With protection at the data level, XQ Msg can protect through the complete life-cycle Network agnostic data protection allows for an infinite number of applications Interoperability reduces the cost of deployment
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Data lakes Are A Hacker’s Dream – Here’s How To Secure Them
XQ is the first data protection solution built on a Zero Trust model. With XQ encryption, a Smart City can provide selective access to data. We can even establish secure cryptographic gateways between multiple data lakes.
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How to add a zero-trust encrypted form onto your wordPress Site
XQ Secure Forms is easy to set up and is a hassle-free solution for safely receiving client information. XQ works with your existing form, so no need to replace the form solutions you have already invested in.
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Is Open Source a requirement for a Security API?
In a recent developer roundtable discussion XQ held on August 17, 2021, our Head of Corporate Development, Kelby Price, and Zero-Trust expert Junaid Islam spoke with a group of senior developers about their thoughts between open versus closed source as part of their security API’s.
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DevSecOps: what is it and Why you need it
On August, 17, 2021, XQ hosted their first developer roundtable discussion with developers and our very own, Kelby Price and Zero-Trust expert, Junaid Islam. The event centered around Zero Trust, APIs, DevSecOps, and cybersecurity challenges in the software development industry.
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Application Security: Do I need it?
XQ held their first developer roundtable discussion on August 17, 2021, hosted by our Head of Corporate Development, Kelby Price, and Zero-Trust expert, Junaid Islam. They spoke with a group of senior developers on their thoughts about application security.
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The importance of establishing a strong security culture
Within a healthy cybersecurity culture, all team members care about maintaining the security and integrity of data. This means the values and practices of an organization align with protecting the intellectual property, personal data, and business assets of the company and its customers.
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Cybersecurity Trends for 2022: Trends to look out for in the new year
Cyber risks will continue to increase in 2022. Part of this increase is due to the digitization of banking, education, and even healthcare services, all of which were radically accelerated due to the pandemic. Such trends will continue to be catastrophic for governments, enterprises, and people alike.
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The World’s Largest, most powerful c5ISR System now incorporates zero-trust
XQ enables AGIS’ MDDL C5ISR System (Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) to meet Zero-Trust NIST 800-171 advanced encryption, routing, and data management compliance requirements. All data, PTT, and Video are protected by double encryption.
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Alternative methods for Cybersecurity: Zero-Trust Gateway
XQ’s Zero-Trust Gateway is a breakthrough in data protection as it is entirely software-based in contrast with the hardware-based solutions that are currently on the market. It allows you to secure and transmit your data over any series of links inside or outside your network while still keeping your data safe.
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Reliability and Security are Essential to Connectivity
Satellite systems can effectively provide failover connectivity when systems on the ground are down. Without proper cybersecurity protection measures, such satellites cannot support secure connectivity.
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Zero-Trust is Disrupting Cyber Security
XQ is founded on the principle of Zero-Trust. By extending the concept from networks to data, XQ ensures that data cannot be read without prior authorization. It is incredibly adaptable and scalable to all institutions by being platform agnostic.
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XQ and Indiana 5G Zone
XQ’s Zero Trust data protection platform has empowered IN5GZ to be the first lab to offer Quantum-safe Encryption as a Service (QEaaS) to protect and track IoT data as it moves through 5G infrastructure.
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We Worry about cybersecurity, so you don’t have to.
XQ has pioneered technology to empower developers with simple tools to integrate security measures into their software systems, something never done before. Unlike other Zero-Trust solutions, XQ is the first company to create data-driven Zero-Trust architecture that reduces security risks by protecting individual data beyond the network no matter where it goes.
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Secure Forms For Business | Protect and Own your customer data
With XQ Secure Forms, we encrypt your data beforehand to ensure that no one can access the data as it’s being submitted. This process keeps your company compliant with HIPAA, GSPR, CCPA, and other federal regulations.
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XQ Secure Forms
Our mission at XQ is to empower digital privacy. Making it easier for developers to secure forms with XQ is one of the ways we are making digital privacy real.
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Junaid Islam on Zero-Trust Architecture
In this OODAcast, Junaid Islam discusses Zero-Trust and secure communications. Junaid explains how the Zero-Trust architecture translates to corporate America.
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Why security matters in SMART agriculture
A new industry is emerging as a prime target for cyberattacks – Precision Agriculture, which incorporates satellite and digital systems into agriculture production.
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XQ announces Partnership with HUB Advanced Networks
Earlier this month, XQ and finalized its partnership with HUB Advanced Networks. This partnership extends the security of fiber to users and applications, making HUB the first fiber provider with an integrated secure cloud offering that has security embedded with an extended trust model.
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Nation’s Top 5G Experts Come Together For Indiana 5G Zone’s First Quarterly Innovation Event
The Indiana 5G Zone is hosting its first Quarterly Innovation Event on Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at 1 p.m. EST. This virtual event will consist of several of the nation’s top 5G experts discussing the industry and a variety of other 5G-related topics.
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Indiana 5G Zone To Host Panel Discussion And Demonstrations On Revolutionary ‘Smart Transportation’ Technologies
“We are happy to partner with Performance Defense and to provide the 5G antenna that makes this gateway possible,” said Sean Hendrix, Executive Director of the Indiana 5G Zone and Chief Technology Officer at the NineTwelve Institute.”
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XQ SMART Architecture
XQ transforms the apps you already use to make them more secure. We eliminate the single points of failure exposed by cloud SaaS applications.
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Quantum-Safe encryption
Any type of cryptographic algorithm requires a multi-bit key to encrypt data. Longer keys are exponentially more difficult to crack. With any type of…
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SMART Cities Connect Start up Challenge
Increased technology and wireless devices are transforming cities around the world. SMART city IoT networks are composed of thousands of devices sending…
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XQ for Gmail and Outlook
XQ understands you’re already busy. Between security requirements, compliance issues, and COVID-19 pushing employees to work from home and subsequently…
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Indiana 5G Zone Launches Exclusive Opportunity To Accelerate 5G Innovations
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., April 1, 2021 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — The Indiana 5G Zone (IN5GZ), a virtual and practical onsite innovation lab, is excited to announce…
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XQ Differentiators
Secure any data, on any network, on any device as it moves to the cloud and back.
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Grand Opening Of The Indiana 5G Zone, The First Practical 5G Innovation Lab
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Dec. 29, 2020 — NineTwelve Announces the Grand Opening of the Indiana 5G Zone, a virtual and onsite practical innovation lab.…
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Indiana 5G Zone: First To Demonstrate Quantum-Safe Encryption As A Service For 5G IoT Systems
The Indiana 5G Zone is focused on developing new commercial 5G applications such as Smart Manufacturing and Smart Communities to support economic growth
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Protect Your Video Surveillance Data From Hackers
Protect Your Video Surveillance Data From Hackers.