It’s been a while, but the PlayStation Network will finally be back up this week – or at least some of the network will. After an “external intrusion” caused the network to be taken offline some time ago, Sony have announced that some services will be up and running later this week.
Sony earlier revealed plans for free games and services for PSN members as an apology for the downtime. The initial phase of the rollout will include, at the very least, the following:
- Restoration of Online game-play across the PlayStation®3 (PS3) and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) systems (This includes titles requiring online verification and downloaded games)
- Access to Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity for PS3/PSP for existing subscribers
- Access to account management and password reset
- Access to download un-expired Movie Rentals on PS3, PSP and MediaGo
- PlayStation®Home
- Friends List
- Chat Functionality
Sony then explained that they would be bolstering the PSN’s security in light of the attack:
Working closely with several outside security firms, the company has implemented significant security measures to further detect unauthorized activity and provide consumers with greater protection of their personal information. The company is also creating the position of Chief Information Security Officer, directly reporting to Shinji Hasejima, Chief Information Officer of Sony Corporation, to add a new position of expertise in and accountability for customer data protection and supplement existing information security personnel. The new security measures implemented include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Added automated software monitoring and configuration management to help defend against new attacks
- Enhanced levels of data protection and encryption
- Enhanced ability to detect software intrusions within the network, unauthorized access and unusual activity patterns
- Implementation of additional firewalls
The company also expedited an already planned move of the system to a new data center in a different location that has been under construction and development for several months. In addition, PS3 will have a forced system software update that will require all registered PlayStation Network users to change their account passwords before being able to sign into the service. As an added layer of security, that password can only be changed on the same PS3 in which that account was activated, or through validated email confirmation, a critical step to help further protect customer data.
There is still no word on when the PlayStation Store is expected to return – something that many developers will be pained to hear.
When the PSN is back online will you sign up? Share your thoughts below.
