Abstract: A method of supporting a substantially secure backup copy of a key-server database, said database comprising security information specific to a plurality of users, absent the need for a duplicate key-server is disclosed. According to the method, each individual's security data is stored within the key-server database and is also stored on a portable data storage device, such as a smart card or a PCMCIA token. If the key-server crashes and the database stored thereon is lost, a duplicate key-server database is reconstructed using the aggregate of the partial database files stored on each individual's portable data storage device. Similarly, when a portable data storage device is lost, it can be rebuilt from the data stored within the key-server.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for authenticating a user In dependence upon biometric Input information is disclosed. According to the method when a user is identified, their biometric information or data derived therefrom is automatically stored. The data is then used in subsequent user identification attempts as a template. The original templates are not replaced but those templates that are automatically stored are replaced at intervals.

Abstract: A method of supporting a substantially secure backup copy of a key-server database, said database comprising security information specific to a plurality of users, absent the need for a duplicate key-server is disclosed. According to the method, each individual's security data is stored within the key-server database and is also stored on a portable data storage device, such as a smart card or a PCMCIA token. If the key-server crashes and the database stored thereon is lost, a duplicate key-server database is reconstructed using the aggregate of the partial database files stored on each individual's portable data storage device. Similarly, when a portable data storage device is lost, it can be rebuilt from the data stored within the key-server.

Abstract: A method for matching biometric data on an authentication server is disclosed. An authentication server is provided having biometric template data stored thereon. A plurality of workstation processors in communication with the authentication server is also provided. A sensed biometric image is provided to a processor out of the plurality of workstation processors from an individual. From the authentication server to the processor, co-ordinate data relating to a plurality of non-contiguous features of the template data are provided. Characteristic data is extracted from the biometric image, the characteristic data for correlation with the provided co-ordinate data allowing for a subsequent alignment of the biometric image within a known frame of reference relative to the template data on the basis of the provided data and the other data.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for authenticating a user In dependence upon biometric Input information is disclosed. According to the method when a user is identified, their biometric information or data derived therefrom is automatically stored. The data is then used in subsequent user identification attempts as a template. The original templates are not replaced but those templates that are automatically stored are replaced at intervals.

Abstract: A method for matching biometric data is disclosed. A biometric information source is sensed to provide an image thereof. The image is then analysed to extract features thereform. A feature is selected as a first feature and a plurality of polygons are generated with a location of the first feature as a vertex of each. The polygons are then used to search a lookup table in order to determine an orientation and translation of the image relative to stored reference data.

Abstract: A method of authorising a user in communication with a workstation is disclosed. According to the method, a system automatically determines a plurality of available user information entry devices in communication with the workstation. The system then determines predetermined user authorisation methods each requiring data only from available user information entry devices. The user then selects one of the determined authorisation methods for use in user authorisation. Optionally, each authorisation method is associated with a security level relating to user access to resources. Once the authorisation method is selected, the user provides user authorisation information in accordance with a determined user authorisation method and registration proceeds.

Abstract: A method of authenticating a user in dependence upon biometric input information is disclosed. According to the method when a user is identified, their biometric information or data derived therefrom is automatically stored. The data is then used in subsequent user identification attempts as a template. The original templates are not replaced but those templates that are automatically stored are replaced at intervals.

Abstract: A method of authenticating a user in dependence upon biometric input information is disclosed. According to the method when a user is identified, their biometric information or data derived therefrom is automatically stored. The data is then used in subsequent user identification attempts as a template. The original templates are not replaced but those templates that are automatically stored are replaced at intervals.