“High side” in the context of security refers to a secure, out-of-band system for communicating and collaborating, especially with classified information. It’s designed to eliminate vulnerabilities like man-in-the-middle attacks and phishing by encrypting messages and data directly on the client app. This also often involves passwordless, zero-trust authentication and device-specific authentication.

Key Features of a High Side System:

End-to-End Encryption (E2EE):

Messages, files, voice, and video are encrypted on the user’s device, meaning only the sender and recipient can read them.

Decentralized Trust:

Private keys are not stored centrally, eliminating single points of failure. 

Passwordless Authentication:

Uses device-specific authentication to eliminate the need for passwords and the risk of phishing. 

Device and Location Control:

High side systems can implement controls like device authorization and geographic/temporal fencing, ensuring only authorized devices and locations can access the secure communication. 

Compliance:

Many high side solutions are designed with compliance in mind, offering features to meet industry regulations.

Scalability:

High side systems often offer robust user management and Active Directory/Identity Management sync for ease of scaling. 

In essence, a high side system aims to provide secure, reliable, and compliant communication and collaboration, particularly in environments dealing with sensitive or classified information. 

Examples of High Side Applications:

Government and Military: For secure communication of classified information. 

Financial Institutions: For secure communication of sensitive financial data. 

Law Enforcement: For secure communication and collaboration during investigations. 

SOC and Incident Response Teams: For secure communication and collaboration during security incidents. 

Businesses: For secure communication and collaboration with clients and partners.