DHS to vendors: Help us shield dot-gov domain

The department wants data from vendors on cybersecurity solutions

• By Ben Bain
• Jul 16, 2009

The Homeland Security Department wants information from companies on technical solutions that could be used to protect the ".gov" cyber domain used by federal civilian agencies, according to recently published notice.

DHS is interested in products that could be used for its integrated cybersecurity program that includes software and hardware, the department said in a request for information (RFI) published July 15 on the Federal Business Opportunities Web site. The full RFI is classified and vendors interested in the opportunity need to contact the department by July 22.

DHS is responsible for defending, protecting, and reducing vulnerabilities to the government’s civilian networks. According the RFI, DHS’ integrated cybersecurity program includes efforts to:

• Compile and analyze information about cybersecurity from DHS’ partners and provide appropriate warnings.

• Coordinate efforts among government organizations to protect control systems and work with nongovernment partners.

• Improve the security of critical cyber infrastructure through information sharing.

• Detect cyber threats.

DHS said only persons with the necessary security clearances will get access to the full RFI.