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IBM boost cloud computing with encryption breakthrough
IT News |
26/06/2009
IBM is claiming to have cracked a long standing encryption challenge, a breakthrough which could boost cloud computing.
According to the firm, its researcher Craig Gentry has developed a new system which allows the "deep and unlimited analysis" of data that has been encrypted without sacrificing confidentiality.
The method is known as homomorphic encryption.
Among other things, this would allow an external cloud computing vendor to examine sales data for patterns without them being able to see the original private information.
Charles Lickel, vice-president of IBM Software Research, said: "Fully homomorphic encryption is a bit like enabling a layperson to perform flawless neurosurgery while blindfolded, without later remembering the episode."
The new system should allow firms to make more informed decisions based on detailed analysis without compromising privacy, he added.
Recently, Daryl Plummer, managing vice-president of Gartner, advised IT managers to ensure that they know a cloud computing programme will deliver the expected outcomes before approving a scheme.
Posted by John Lynes.
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