Security architectures for network clients

Enumerates and compares a number of security-enabling architectures for network clients. These architectures, either proposed as methodologies or currently implemented in software and/or hardware, are capable of protecting the client's software integrity and its environment. The most important methodologies include the reference monitor model, firewalls, and virtual machines. Software implementations are the Java Sandbox, and the code signing concept. Hardware that can be used includes smart cards, and the TCPA/Palladium security initiative. Describes their most important features and provide a review and comparative study based on a number of criteria. Believes that ongoing research can empower these mechanisms for protecting network clients in a more effective way.