Some of this research applies to the critical infrastructure problem, but much remains to be done. The new grants program, administered by NIST, will target infrastructure IT security issues applicable to civilian and commercial systems. The Web Metrics Testbed project focuses on experimenting with innovative tools for rapid, remote, and automated usability testing and evaluation of web sites. Release 2.0 includes enhancements to existing tools, Windows versions, and new prototypes. More information about the suite is available on that site also.
Collaboration is welcomed.
XML 1.0 Recommendation. It can be used to improve the quality of XML parsers and help ensure interoperable, robust XML products. August ITL's Computer Security Division has announced a workshop on modes of operation for securing data using symmetric key block cipher algorithms. It will aid NIST in developing a standard or guideline that is secure and responsive to the needs of government, industry, and the public. The 90-day comment period will close on May 29, 2001.