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General FAQ's:-

1.      What is the AlphaShield™, and what does it do?

2.      How much does it cost ?

3.      Is AlphaShield™ difficult to configure?

4.      Will AlphaShield™ affect the computers performance?

5.      Does AlphaShield™ work with different operating systems?

6.      Does AlphaShield™ work with firewall and anti-virus software?

7.      Is the AlphaShield™ a firewall?

8.      How does the AlphaShield™ work?

9.      Why would I buy the AlphaShield™ instead of just turning off my computer?

10. Why do consumers need the AlphaShield™? Aren't firewalls and virus scanners enough for individual PC users?

11. Can I connect more than one computer to my AlphaShield™ Device?

12. Can someone hack into the operating code residing in my AlphaShield™?

13. Does the AlphaShield™ work with programs like MSN Messenger or ICQ?

14. Does AlphaShield™ replace my anti-virus software?

15. Do I require anti virus software on my computer even though I have an AlphaShield™ device connected in line with my system?

16. Is the AlphaShield™ a true stand alone product?

17. Will the AlphaShield™ affect the computers performance?

18. Does the AlphaShield™ work with firewall and anti-virus software?

19. Will AlphaShield™ work behind an existing firewall to provide extra security?

20. If I am downloading a large file online, such as a song or video, during that download period, would the AlphaShield™ prevent me from getting hacked?

21. Can I use my AlphaShield™ at my office location for security?

22. Can I make a remote connection using PC Anywhere, VNC, or any other remote access program through to the AlphaShield™ device?

23. Can I telecommute and make a remote connection using PC Anywhere or VNC from the client side through the AlphaShield™ to the outside world?

24. What benefits does the AlphaShield™ offer to ISP's (Internet Service Providers) and their subscribers?

Technical FAQ's

25.  Can I still have a logical disconnect when in auto mode?

26.  Can I switch from auto mode to manual mode during a connection session?

27.  Can I have the AlphaGap and RPA enabled to my computer and have other devices still operational?

28.  Can I use the Aux port as a test port?

29.  Does my AlphaShield™ provide NAT for single IP operation?

30.  Can my AlphaShield™ Device be detected and pinged from the Internet when in the connected mode?

31.  If my Computer's IP address is known can it be pinged?

32.  Does My AlphaShield™ provide security between computers on the local LAN?

33.  Will AlphaShield™ retain my assigned IP address from the ISP provider after a logical disconnect?

34.  Does my AlphaShield™ retain its settings after a power loss?

35.  Can I have multiple iterations of my browser running with multiple sessions?

36.  Can my AlphaShield™ function in Static or Dynamic IP assignment?

37.  Can the logical disconnect in manual mode be bypassed by hacking into the AlphaShield™?

38.  Does AlphaShield™ provide any client reporting functions?

39.  Will AlphaShield™ support data using IPSEC for security?

40.  Can I use any client operating system with AlphaShield™?

41.  Can I use a proxy server in front of my AlphaShield™ device for IP Assignments to multiple computers?

42.  Can my AlphaShield™ be connected if I have an internal xDSL modem within my computer?

43. Can I connect my AlphaShield™ if my network card in my computer is a fixed Fast Ethernet 100 Mbps card?

44. Will AlphaShield™ work with 56k Modems?

45. Will AlphaShield™ work with USB Modems?

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Q1: What is the AlphaShield™, and what does it do?
A: The AlphaShieldTM is AlphaShield's first product offering designed for small business and personal use. The AlphaShieldTM is a plug and play hardware solution that protects high-speed Internet users against hacker attacks and other security threats. AlphaShieldTM allows users to browse and use the Internet while seamlessly protecting them from potential online threats including denial of service attacks, privacy invasion and information theft. AlphaShieldTM has achieved recognition within the network security industry and is the winner of various awards.

Q2: How much does it cost?
A: AlphaShieldTM is £95 + VAT and Delivery

Q3: Is AlphaShield™ difficult to configure?
A: The AlphaShieldTM is simple to install and operate. It is a true plug and play device, which means that users are not required to open their systems or install complex software drivers. The AlphaShieldTM's intricate structure was designed to work effortlessly with all major platforms with no technical knowledge required.

Q4: Will AlphaShield™ affect the computers performance?
A: The AlphaShieldTM does not affect the functionality of your computer or the Internet. You have immediate access at any time to the Internet. AlphaShieldTM gives users the option of using an auto or manual mode setting. AlphaShieldTM operates seamlessly while the user accesses the Internet. It operates separately from the computer and will not impact the processing or downloading speed.

Q5: Does AlphaShield™ work with different operating systems?
A: AlphaShieldTM is platform independent meaning it is fully compatible with all operating systems

Q6: Does AlphaShield™ work with firewall and anti-virus software?
A: Yes, AlphaShieldTM is compatible with all known firewalls and anti-virus software applications

Q7: Is the AlphaShield™ a firewall?
A: The AlphaShield™ cannot be defined as a simple firewall. An intelligent stateful inspection Packet filter has been embedded into the device to enhance the level of security delivered to each user.

Q8: Does AlphaShield™ work with firewall and anti-virus software?
A: The AlphaShield™ resides on the connection between a computer and a high speed Internet modem. By utilising the Stealth IP technology, RPA technology and AlphaGap technology, the AlphaShield™ makes your computer invisible to hackers, allows only authorised access and automatically disconnects when not actively surfing. The Stealth IP technology conceals the user's computer identity from being seen across the Internet or network while it allows the user to freely surf the Internet or network safely. Since the user cannot be identified or located, the user's risks are greatly reduced from any threats of scans, probes or attacks. Built on an Artificial Intelligence infrastructure, the AlphaShield™ protects your computer from potential online threats/attacks by monitoring inbound and outbound data as it inspects each packet of information that travels between your computer and the network (ISP) and only allows access to addresses you have requested. The AlphaGap technology ensures access to your system is disabled as it physically disconnects your computer from the network when activity is not detected in 15 minutes.

Q9: Why would I buy the AlphaShield™ instead of just turning off my computer?
A: When you are connected to broadband (or high speed) your computer is still vulnerable. Your Ethernet card has a wake on- LAN feature that enables a hacker to turn on the computer and have access, even when you are not there.

Q10: Why do consumers need the AlphaShield™? Aren't firewalls and virus scanners enough for individual PC users?
A: A recent Forrester Research survey of high-speed Internet subscribers confirms that constant connectivity and increased bandwidth are the top reasons for choosing broadband access. However, these two features of high-speed Internet access expose users to the serious threat of security attacks. Constant connection and broader bandwidth increase the idle time for which a computer is connected to the Internet, thus, opening the door to intruder attacks. Recent corporate security breaches and denial of service attacks have caused large monetary and reputation damage to renowned online businesses, triggering a need for more robust protocols, security technology and intrusion detection. Currently no security solution on the market provides 100% protection from hacking threats. Even with firewalls, VPNs, and encryption technologies, hackers are finding ways to infiltrate systems, as shown by the recent DDoS attacks on Microsoft and Amazon.com. Through the development of the AlphaShield™, AlphaShield Inc. is fulfilling the industry's need for a truly bullet-proof security solution that effectively ends any chance of hackers entering a system.

Q11: Can more than one computer be connected to my AlphaShield™ Device?
A: Yes! If you are connecting more than one computer to your AlphaShield™ device you must connect the hub or switch to the protected PC port on the AlphaShield™ device. Also it is recommended that the AlphaShield™ device be switched into the auto mode. You must also have an IP address assignment from your local cable or Telephone Company for each and every computer you are connecting to the AlphaShield™.

Q12: Can someone hack into the operating code residing in my AlphaShield™?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™'s proprietary security operating program resides in memory that cannot be altered from either the client or network ports on the device.

Q13: Does the AlphaShield™ work with programs like MSN Messenger or ICQ?
A: Yes! If you are the initiator of ICQ or MSN Messenger session. However, if you are the intended recipient of ICQ or MSN Messenger request, the AlphaShield™ will deny any and all access because ICQ and MSN Messenger allow unauthorised access leading to malicious computer attacks.

Q14: Does AlphaShield™ replace my anti-virus software?
A: No, the AlphaShield™ does not replace anti-virus software. Anti-virus software performs a separate function than the functions performed by the AlphaShield™. To further enhance and increase the level of system security, AlphaShield Inc. recommends the use of a trusted anti-virus software program.

Q15: Do I require anti virus software on my computer even though I have an AlphaShield™ device connected in line with my system?
A: Yes! The AlphaShield™ cannot detect viruses destined to a client in a valid user session. To protect your operating system and mitigate possible trojans from entering the system via the network connection or even a peripheral device, it is highly recommended that you install an up-to-date anti-virus package on your client's machine.

Q16: Is the AlphaShield™ a true stand alone product?
A: No additional software installation, parts or configuration to your system is required. Simply connect the AlphaShield™ between your computer and modem using RJ45 cables to enjoy safe and secure Internet access.

Q17: Will the AlphaShield™ affect the computers performance?
A: The AlphaShield™ does not affect the performance of your computer. It has a dedicated CPU to handle the inbound and outbound packet filtering. It will not occupy any system resources. Furthermore, it will release the IP address upon Physical Disconnection Mode. This will improve the network traffic to the ISP.

Q18: Does the AlphaShield™ work with firewall and anti-virus software?
A: Yes, the AlphaShield™ is compatible with all known firewalls and anti-virus software applications

Q19: Will AlphaShield™ work behind an existing firewall to provide extra security?
A: Yes! Many firewalls are difficult to configure and may not even be providing the proper security perceived. The AlphaShield™ will ensure a high degree of security, no matter where installed within the network topology.

Q20: If I am downloading a large file online, such as a song or video, during that download period, would the AlphaShield™ prevent me from getting hacked?
A: Yes, during the download, the AlphaShield™ uses RPA technology built on Artificial Intelligence to block all other unrequested contacts from the network.

Q21: Can I use my AlphaShield™ at my office location for security?
A: Yes! It can be used in an office environment only if the hub or switch it is connecting to have the capability to detect and switch to a 10 Base-T connection. If the connection is only a 100Base-T connection the AlphaShield™ will not function.

Q22: Can I make a remote connection using PC Anywhere, VNC, or any other remote access program through to the AlphaShield™ device?
A: No! Remote access programs will not function or will be allowed to connect from the outside network through the AlphaShield™ to the client.

Q23: Can I telecommute and make a remote connection using PC Anywhere or VNC from the client side through the AlphaShield™ to the outside world?
A: Yes! If you wish to make a remote connection from the client or computer side of the AlphaShield™ to a remote site using remote application software such as PC anywhere the AlphaShield™ will allow this type of connection. The other end must not have a security device such as the AlphaShield™ inline with the associated client.

Q24: What benefits does the AlphaShield™ offer to ISP's (Internet Service Providers) and their subscribers?
A: The AlphaShield™ prevents unauthorised access and transfer of information on home Internet connections and provides 100% protection from hacking and security threats. Since the user is physically disconnected after receiving the requested information, to a hacker they become non-existent. By removing the typical transfer of packet activity, in a sense you increase bandwidth, which to the subscriber translates to faster speeds. Your technicians won’t have to provide any technical support, because there is no software required to operate the device. If any technical downloads are required, the subscriber can simply go into bypass mode, unlike a firewall. Increased network throughput allows ISPs to effectively serve a higher number of subscribers resulting in a potential increase in revenues. If your subscriber is not getting hacked into, then you have a happy, satisfied customer.

Q25: Can I still have a logical disconnect when in auto mode?
A: Yes! While AlphaShield™ is in auto mode your computer connection is utilizing AlphaGap and Real Time Packet Authorization RPA . When you are ready to leave your computer or you are leaving momentarily just depress the disconnect button and the AlphaShield™ will logically disconnect your computer. This will be displayed by an illuminated Amber disconnect LED.

Q26: Can I switch from auto mode to manual mode during a connection session?
A: Yes! If you are downloading or uploading a large file and may not be present when the file transfer is completed, but want the AlphaShield™ to logically disconnect after the transfer is completed, just switch to manual mode from auto mode during the file transfer. Upon completion of the file transfer the manual timeout will occur and the AlphaShield™ logical disconnect will take place.

Q27: Can I have the AlphaGap and RPA enabled to my computer and have other devices still operational?
A: Yes! There is an Aux port available on the AlphaShield™ that is enabled continuously but does not provide any security. This port can but utilized for VoIP phones, external switches, hubs, or any other IP device not requiring any security.

Q28: Can I use the Aux port as a test port?
A: Yes! If you suspect any problem with your current AlphaShield™ or you cannot establish a connection through it, you can connect the client PC to the Aux port temporarily to confirm there is no problem with the AlphaShield™. If your ISP for cable provider suggests bypassing all devices while setting up your connection you may connect the PC to the Aux port for the duration of the test. Remember To Put The Connection Back To Its Proper PC Port When Completing The Test Or Setup Procedure.

Q29: Does my AlphaShield™ provide NAT for single IP operation?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ does support multiple client operation but will support an equal number of IP addresses to computer connections available to the AlphaShield™.

Q30: Can my AlphaShield™ Device be detected and pinged from the Internet when in the connected mode?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ does not act like a gateway or router and does not have an IP address assignment of any type associated with it. AlphaShield™ remains invisible to the Internet, Intranet or connected network.

Q31: If my Computer's IP Address is known can it be pinged?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ will hide your IP address of your computer by not responding to any ping requests from the outside world. ICMP packets for the ping command are discarded.

Q32: Does My AlphaShield™ provide security between computers on the local LAN?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ does not provide security between clients on the local area work. In order to provide security to every client on the local network, you must have an AlphaShield™ device per computer. With one AlphaShield™ connected to the LAN, it will only provide security from the outside network i.e. the Internet.

Q33: Will AlphaShield™ retain my assigned IP address from the ISP provider after a logical disconnect?
A: Yes! When your AlphaShield™ is in the logically disconnected state with the Connect LED illuminating amber, it will retain your currently assigned IP address from your Internet provider. Either the Manual or Auto mode will be able to retain the current IP address assignment in logical disconnect.

Q34: Does my AlphaShield™ retain its settings after a power loss?
A: Yes! Your AlphaShield™ will power up and operate just as before without any changes after a power failure. However it will default to the disconnect state after a power failure. It will power up to either a logical disconnect or physical disconnect depending upon the position of the mode switch.

Q35: Can I have multiple iterations of my browser running with multiple sessions?
A: Yes! The AlphaShield™ keeps track of all concurrent sessions initiated form the client side of the network and considers them as valid user sessions. Once a disconnect occurs by either a timeout or by a manual disconnect all current stateful session connections are lost and must be re-established after the connect button is depressed.

Q36: Can my AlphaShield™ function in Static or Dynamic IP assignment?
A: Yes! Your AlphaShield™ can support either static or dynamic IP addressing as long as the client is setup properly for the assigned access. Each computer will have or be assigned an IP address in order to connect to the network.

Q37: Can the logical disconnect in manual mode be bypassed by hacking into the AlphaShield™?
A: No! Once the inactivity timer value has been exceeded or the disconnect button has been depressed to establish a logical disconnect, no possible code or software on either the client port or modem port can re-establish a connection session. The connect button must be depressed by operator intervention before a connection session can take place again.

Q38: Does AlphaShield™ provide any client reporting functions?
A: Yes! The only reporting available on the AlphaShield™ is displayed by the visual red and amber illumination of the external or internal extrusion LEDs. (Unauthorized packets being discarded.)

Q39: Will AlphaShield™ support data using IPSEC for security?
A: Yes! The AlphaShield™ does not modify the packets in transmission in any way. VPN's can be established by using IPSEC or any other security algorithm.

Q40: Can I use any client operating system with AlphaShield™?
A: Yes! The AlphaShield™ will work with any operating system as long as the selected network protocol is TCP/IP.

Q41: Can I use a proxy server in front of my AlphaShield™ device for IP Assignments to multiple computers?
A: Yes! Although your AlphaShield™ Home is intended for home use, it can use a proxy server to NAT multiple IP connections so that additional computers can be connected and protected.

Q42: Can my AlphaShield™ be connected if I have an internal xDSL modem within my computer?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ is designed to function when inserted between the xDSL modem and the client computer. If you have purchased an internal xDSL modem the AlphaShield™ cannot be connected. You must have an external modem.

Q43: Can I connect my AlphaShield™ if my network card in my computer is a fixed Fast Ethernet 100 Mbps card?
A: No! Your AlphaShield™ must be connected to a network interface card that can auto negotiate to a 10 Mbps data rate. Some fast Ethernet cards do support auto switching to 10 Mbps. It is preferable to have a 10/100 Mbps network interface card installed in the client computer.

Q44: Will AlphaShield™ work with 56k Modems? A: Yes! So long as its an external modem with an ethernet connection leading from it to the Computer. Simply plug the AlphaShield between the two and surf the Internet as before. The fact that data is processed slower over a 56k modem will make no difference to its performance.

Q45: Will AlphaShield™ work with USB Modems?
A: No! The current AlphaShield™ is designed to work with Ethernet devices, not USB. However a USB version of AlphaShield™ is due out imminently, so if you have a USB modem/PC don’t rush out and change it to an Ethernet version just yet!

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