Symbol Technologies announced it has agreed to acquire Trio Security Inc., a privately held company that designs and develops next-generation security solutions for enterprise networks and mobile applications for handheld devices.  Trio's security technology on Symbol mobile devices will help provide seamless network roaming and authentication, as well as offer confidence to organizations that their data and intellectual property is inaccessible to those lacking authorization.

Trio has been recognized as the first information security developer to integrate 3-factor user authentication and single sign-on software technologies with the mobility and functionality of a handheld organizer.  The 3-factor authentication system consists of a software key, a password, and user-specific ID such as biometrics or the rhythm, speed and acceleration of a handwritten word.

According to the Symbol press release, digital identity solutions based on 3-factor authentication will provide Symbol customers with secure access to real-time information from the point of capture to the point of management.  Symbol will also acquire biometric verification and advanced encryption technologies, including a portable encryption library that will strengthen existing Symbol security products. 

"The acquisition of Trio Security's technology enhances our robust solutions approach to safeguarding and securing our customers' mission-critical information," says Todd Hewlin, Symbol senior vice president, Global Products Group.  "Symbol, along with its solutions partners, is proactively responding to the market requirements for securing devices and WLANs at the edge of the network."

Trio Security will be integrated into the Symbol Mobility Software Division, which is responsible for the development, marketing, delivery, and support of integrated device and network management products.