The aim of our project is to define and describe a software architecture that properly addresses mobility and security related needs of VEs. This includes collecting a protocol set where security is based on smart-card technology and which provides mobility in accessing virtual enterprise services. In order to fulfil the compatibility requirements, in developing the new software architecture, standardized communication technologies have to be used. The most widely used protocol to deliver the Internet content is HTTP, however, it does not behave in accordance with the mobile environment. Wireless carriers are known for their low bandwidth, high latency, and unpre-dictable reliability.
Wireless devices represent limited processing power, memory and simple user interface.
All these limitations are addressed by the WAP, making it the most suitable platform for supporting sophisticated telephony and information services on hand-held devices. The most important parts of the WAP protocol stack are outlined in Figure 1. This protocol is based on the TLS protocol, which makes client-server authentication possible and performs cryptographic operations. However, in order to address most of the security requirements of the customers, some of the security functionalities have to be performed in a tamper-resistant device. According to WAP, not only a mobile client is able to access the services, but also the server side is no more localised, so needs of the mobility-based new VE concept are fulfilled.