Specialized messaging ASPs

Here are some interesting application service providers that promise timely delivery and/or security of messages:

• Hush Communications
  This company was founded in Anguilla, British West Indies, because of that location's lack of export restrictions on cryptography products. Hush offers a Web-based e-mail system like HotMail with the exception that HushMail uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) between the server and the desktop. Messages are stored on the server with 1,024-bit encryption, resulting in full protection for messages sent between HushMail subscribers. Hush is developing a version of the product that is Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) compatible, but in the current iteration both the recipient and the sender have to be HushMail subscribers. Hush is developing a private-labeled version that can be implemented on a customer's network.

• NetEx
  NetEx offers a combination of an online service and full-featured software that can transmit any document, including handwritten documents, other paper-based documents, images and other electronic sources via the Internet. The NetEx service requires using the company's client software (a free download). The implementation of the staging server is similar to that offered by ZipLip and Tumbleweed Communications, but with better assurances of delivery timeliness and authentication. NetEx allows notifications via e-mail, fax or pager. The information is registered by the recipient or supplied by the sender and is retained in a confidential manner. Once created, NetEx secures and sends the package directly to the NetEx staging server instead of directly to the recipient. The server controls all authentication, tracking, confirmation, security and archiving of documents. NetEx's security combines software, encryption, private and public key and digital certificates (by Entrust Technologies) and technology design to create an easy-to-use tiered method of transmitting sensitive information.
• ZipLip.com
  Founded in 1999, this company was started by a group of people who believe strongly that e-mail users need to be able to exchange messages with confidentiality and security. ZipLip uses SSL connections to and from a staging server, much like Tumbleweed's approach. ZipLip uses an encrypted message store, but it is possible for the company's staff to open messages. ZipLip has a free e-mail service and will soon offer wireless access to secure e-mail.

Michael D. Osterman is the principal of Osterman Research, a market research firm that helps organizations understand the markets for messaging, directory and related products and services. He can be reached by clicking here.

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