Personal Small Business Enterprise

BlackBerry Z10: The Network & Security Guy

In this five-part series, we’ll bring you information and hands-on insight into the new BlackBerry Z10. With input from five Bell employees of varying perspective, ranging from “The Tech Expert to “The Busy Executive“, we’ll provide a well-rounded view of the new BlackBerry Z10, its operating system and its capabilities.

Like most people, from the time I wake up, right up until the time I go to bed, I rely heavily on my smartphone. I use it for everything from paying my bills and making personal calls, to video conferencing with colleagues and answering emails on the go. And, as Manager of Smartphone and Content Services here at Bell, mobile network and security are of prime importance to me.

The BlackBerry Z10 and mobile security
When you consider how many of us utilize mobile banking applications, store important business information and have a multitude of confidential emails on our mobile devices, losing an unprotected device – or any device without top-notch security capabilities –  can spell trouble. The unfortunate reality is most people take device security for granted until they’re the victim of identity theft or fraud. I’ve seen what can happen when an unprotected device falls into the wrong hands – which is why mobile security is always top of mind when I’m selecting a new smartphone.

BlackBerry has always been synonymous with security, and the new Z10 certainly delivers in that area. One of my favourite features is BlackBerry Balance. This allows users to separate their business data and applications from their personal, and also gives you the ability to keep the ‘professional’ side of your device locked down and password protected.

My BlackBerry Z10 is set to lock after a short period of inactivity – about 3 seconds – and requires a password to unlock. However, on the weekend, when I’m just accessing personal contacts or emails, I can configure it to not require a password at all. That’s a really convenient feature to have when I need to send a personal message or make a quick call. But, as an added layer of security, I keep all of my banking and finance apps onto the work side of my phone, just in case. It’s like having a safe inside your safe!

How the BlackBerry Z10 makes MDM and security, easier – From an enterprise and business security perspective, the BlackBerry Z10 is a fantastic device to issue to employees, and here’s why:

Data encryption – Built into the BlackBerry Z10 is an added layer of security through data encryption.  Data encryption is important, especially in the business environment, as it ensures that no third party, malicious or otherwise, can view or gain access to sensitive information while it’s being transmitted via cellular or WiFi signals.

Data security during employee transition – In the event an employee using their own Z10 as both a personal and professional device decides to leave the organization, BlackBerry Balance allows your IT department to wipe the “work” side of the phone remotely, without any impact on the individual’s “personal” side. Traditionally, the remote wipe capabilities available on other mobile device management platforms (including Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync) only offered the ability to clear out the entire device, personal pictures, contacts and all. That’s just another example of BlackBerry knowing customers’ needs, and building devices and software to meet them.

BlackBerry Balance allows your IT department to wipe the “work” side of the phone, without any impact the “personal” side.

While most devices offer an adequate level of security, BlackBerry has always been the brand I trust for security, and the Z10 is now my smartphone of choice. Having this device for over a month now, it’s clear to see why it debuted to rave reviews with businesses and governments all around the world quickly making plans to implement the BlackBerry Z10 within their organizations.

Of course, there were many other features that impressed me about the BlackBerry Z10. However, since my colleagues Gary, Phil and Manjinder have so eloquently highlighted the benefits of the BB10 operating system, its applications and the exciting new features that BlackBerry has brought us, I chose to keep my focus strictly on the security aspects of my experience with the BlackBerry Z10. However, in closing, I think it’s a fantastic device and I would absolutely recommend it anyone who needs a secure, professional calibre device that still lets you have a little fun on the side.

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