You may remember during our CES 2008 coverage we highlighted a product from Yoggie Security Systems called the Gatekeeper Pico. The product was named "Best of Innovations 2008 - Computer Accessories" at the Consumer Electronics Show and Yoggie Security Systems has sent over a demo of the Gatekeeper Pico for our review.

The Pico is a miniature 520MHz computer built into a thumb-sized USB device, complete with 128MB of memory and a Linux-based operating system. Yoggie claims by moving the security burden onto a separate device, the Pico frees the computer from security tasks often associated with cumbersome, resource-taxing software, resulting in better system performance. The Pico provides 12 built-in security applications:


It's like having a miniature, portable hardware firewall/router that also handles viruses, spyware and web filtering. Yoggie claims Pentagon-level security in the most comprehensive all-in-one technology available today. There are several versions available, from the standalone Pico to the business-oriented Pico Pro and small office designed SOHO models. Common features include IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection / Protection Systems) using open-source Snort, AV/AS is done by Kaspersky, AS/AP by MailShell and Content Filtering is handled by SurfControl. The Pro version adds VPN Client and Remote Management and the SOHO provides protection for up to five computers in a network environment.


The box does a good job of highlighting the main features of the Gatekeeper Pico and answers some basic questions about how the device works. Join me as I take a closer look at the Yoggie Gatekeeper Pico.