Extreme Networks and Microsoft Provide Strong Policy Enforcement at Network Edge


SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 13 / -- Extreme Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXTR), the leader in open converged networks, today announced that its ExtremeXOS(TM) network operating system supports Microsoft's Network Access Protection (NAP), providing enterprises with the tools and confidence to help keep viruses and non-compliant devices from harming their network and systems.

Extreme Networks(R) has taken a leading role in developing network access security and authentication tools for organizations facing the escalating threat of malicious code attacks. Extreme Networks has now extended its robust Network Login/802.1x authentication features with Microsoft's Network Access Protection (NAP) technology.

Extreme Networks' support of Network Access Protection helps ensure that all new devices entering the network are authenticated, authorized and within policy. Policies can include the validation of computer health before being allowed onto the network, automated updates of anti-virus software and patches, and quarantine of potentially harmful or non-compliant devices. The resulting solution allows customers to deploy a powerful enforcement mechanism according to risk level and business need.

"Extreme Networks' support of Microsoft Network Access Protection provides organizations with a strong access policy enforcement system at the network edge, where harmful code can be prevented from entering the network," said Herb Schneider, senior vice president of research and development for Extreme Networks. "This is a critical industry effort and our vision for an open architecture helps us collaborate with industry leaders to deliver key solutions to our customers."

Enterprises can now address the increasing vulnerability of private networked assets and help keep them safe from attack by viruses, worms, and malicious software that would lead to potential loss of data integrity, loss of user productivity, network downtime, and prohibitive recovery costs.

Extreme Networks has demonstrated a commitment to network edge security by offering access authentication since 2001 and subsequently with integration of industry-leading host integrity solutions.

"Microsoft's vision for streamlined network access enforcement at the desktop fits well with Extreme Networks' role in securing the network edge," said Mike Schutz, group product manager, Windows Server division at Microsoft. "The speed at which Extreme Networks is bringing along NAP technology integrated with the switched network infrastructure will help customers as they begin initial trials of Microsoft's Longhorn/Vista platforms later this year."

Extreme Networks, Inc.
Extreme Networks is the leader in open converged networks. Its innovative network architecture provides Enterprises and Metro Service Providers with the resiliency, adaptability and simplicity required for a true converged network that supports voice, video and data over wired and wireless infrastructures while delivering high-performance and advanced security features. For more information, please visit http://www.extremenetworks.com/

CONTACT: Greg Cross of Extreme Networks Public Relations, +1-408-579-3483, or gcross@extremenetworks.com

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