System Structure
and Management

Cybersource PrisonPC is a centrally managed and distributed desktop environment where the desktops have no hard drive, however all applications run on the desktop hardware. Software is not located on the desktop so prisoners cannot hide documents or attempt to take advantage of software vulnerabilities.

System Management
The various aspects of the PrisonPC system, including the allocation of containers to realms and desktops, email and web quarantines, viewing of log files and performance monitoring, are managed via a secure console on the server which is accessible only by authorised custodial staff.


Desktop Realm Management
All desktop computers are categorised into functional realms with unique sets of applications provided to all computers within each realm. The cells realm might only include office productivity applications whereas games would be available in the recreation room realm. Any desktop computer can be quickly and easily reassigned between realms. In fact, a fresh or updated software suite can be distributed to an entire realm in a matter of seconds.

As new PrisonPC desktops are introduced into the environment, administrative staff need only record the unique computer address in the management console and assign it to the appropriate realm. Desktop computers can be reallocated between the various realms easily by an authorised administrator who need not be highly skilled in IT management.

System Boot Containers
All software is packaged in containers which are allocated to the realms. Each container typically holds a unique suite of applications and configurations. The container assigned to the library realm may include office productivity and educational software whereas the cells container would have multimedia applications.