Alphawest Services and CMX Technologies have completed a proof of concept (POC) for an Australian-designed, low-cost Internet authentication process at a Sydney school.

More than 60 mid and high school students from the American International School (AIS) participated in the proof of concept where they used a CMX Card as part of the authentication process to gain access to a Web site which the vendor designed and hosted.

Based on the patent-pending the CMX Authentication Codification process represents the first public demonstration of a solution using this Australian invention.

Using the CMX Authentication Codification process, AIS was able to cost-effectively create an extra layer of online security.

By integrating its student membership card with the CMX Card, AIS provided an easy-to-use security solution that directly linked valid school membership with access to the AIS Web site.

Participating students were able to access an Internet-based discussion group directly from their standard browser, either from school or home.

Students used their CMX Card to transform their secret Personal Identification Number (PIN) into letters that are typed into the computer keyboard.

Importantly, the student's secret PIN was never disclosed or typed into the computer keyboard.

Only authorized and recognized persons were able access the POC Web site and discussion group.

The solution is an upgrade on the widely-accepted user ID and password system and an alternative to two-factor authentication which have been dubbed too costly or complex to deploy on a large scale.

The CMX option can also be easily integrated into an organization's existing processes and technology without requiring additional infrastructure costs.

With the Internet now a key educational resource for students, American International School principal, Lyn Cheetham, said the education provider has a duty of care role to play.

AlphaWest national manager for education Mark Towers said the trial was originally designed for highly secure Internet environments such as Internet banking.

Towers said the success of the trial means Alphawest can apply the outcomes to deployments in other industry sectors both private and public.

CMX Technologies managing director, Corinne Torres, said the patent-pending CMX Authentication Codification Process was invented by an Australian, Siamack Yousofi and will ultimately make a significant contribution in the commercial world in industries such as government, finance, banking and retail.